Page 48 - Kindness - No Forward

Different Styles Listen in Different Ways

Just as we need to be aware of how the different styles communicate, we
should also be aware that there are different styles of listening, too.

LIONS tend to be selective listeners. They pay attention to part of what is
said and do not pay attention to the rest. They will interrupt, feeling they
know the gist of the conversation by highlights of what has been said. They
reach quick conclusions and wish others would “get to the point”.

PORPOISES like to listen. And talk. They tend to listen only so they will be
prepared to say something. They can give the impression that they are
listening to make sure they have the speaker’s approval, when actually
they aren’t listening at all. They laugh at your humor and cry at your
sorrow. They love your personal stories.

KOALAS like to listen. And they are good at it. They sincerely take the
time to hear our message and if the message is delivered with sincerity,
they make the best and most loyal listeners. They may occasionally ask
questions for clarification, but they tend to pretty much “listen up.” While
not as outwardly expressive as PORPOISES, they too will share in others’
laughter and feelings.

FOXES listen, but critically. While not necessarily listening to make a
judgment (though this is often the case), they are on a quest for
information and will ask questions to get what they want. Their responses
to listening will be “why” questions, aimed at getting more information.
They don’t like fluff and hot air. They want facts.