What is meant by “Active listening”? State the importance of ‘Active listening’ in the business communication skills. (June-2009)

Question 9
What is meant by “Active listening”? State the importance of ‘Active listening’ in the
business communication skills. (June-2009)
Answer
Active Listening: Most of us assume that listening is a natural trait, but practically very
few of us listen properly. What we regularly do is-“we hear but do not listen”. Hearing is
through ears and listening is by mind. Listening happens when we understand and
message as intended by sender. Many managers are so used to helping people solve
problems that their first cause of action is transforming solutions and giving advice instead
of listening with full attention directed towards understanding what the co-worker or staff
member needs. Therefore, every employer and worker needs a listening ear.
If one does not learn how to listen, a great deal of what people are trying to tell you would
be missed. In addition, appropriate response would not be possible. Active listening is
important for several reasons.

Law, Ethics and Communication
8.8
(i) It aids the organization in carrying out its missions.
(ii) It helps individuals to advance in their careers.
(iii) It provides information that helps them to learn about important happenings in the
organization, as well as assisting them in doing their own jobs well.
(iv) It also helps in building strong personal relationships.