Assignment:
Question was: Describe the listening characteristics of an individual (personal or professional) who you consider to be an effective listening role model for you. List three of their "listening" qualities as discussed in the course readings (including real or perceived attitudes, such as open-minded, attentive, empathetic, and nurturing, etc.).
Please explain why you agree or disagree: Model Listener
1. An acquaintance I occasionally communicate with possesses strong listening skills. He is considerate, alert, and empathetic. My acquaintance often engages in empathetic listening, a positive habit that fosters productive communication interactions. The individual's unbiased, impartial, and courteous qualities enable him to listen to others' comments regardless of his own personal viewpoints on the topics being discussed. Since he is considerate, understanding, and preoccupied with others' feelings, I would consider my acquaintance to be a people-oriented listener.
Although he rarely offers advice to others, he is always there to lend an ear. He is also attentive and rarely interrupts other speakers (Lardbucket, 2012). Before I communicate with this individual, I feel optimistic and hopeful because I know that he will conscientiously listen to my comments without being distracted. While I am communicating with him, I feel comfortable and at ease because I know my thoughts and comments are well understood. After communicating with the person, I feel satisfied and happy because taking part in an effective and fruitful conversation is gratifying. Two people do not even need to share the same opinions to engage in a harmonious and productive conversation.
2. Another acquaintance who I sometimes converse with in social settings is irritable, aggressive, and self-interested (negative listening qualities). He frequently interrupts me while I am speaking. Speakers and listeners should be equal participants in communication interactions. However, when receivers frequently disrupt speakers, they are engaging in mindless and insensitive communication. My acquaintance often attempts to control or dominate conversations. Therefore, his behavior compels me to either defend my point of view or withdraw entirely from the conversation.
As an aggressive listener, the individual seeks to criticize my thoughts and comments. He may be engaging in aggressive listening habits due to frustration, lack of confidence, or self-doubt. My acquaintance also engages in narcissistic listening by changing conversation topics, criticizing and disregarding my thoughts, and attempting to top my comments (Lardbucket, 2012).
Before I communicate with this individual, I feel hesitant and unenthusiastic because I am certain my messages will not be received or interpreted as intended. While I am communicating with this individual, I feel irritated because I find it rather difficult to engage in an effective two-way communication interaction. After I communicate with the person, I feel unfulfilled because taking part in a competitive, uneven, and asymmetrical conversation is exhausting and unproductive.