We tend to put all the pressure on the communicator. It’s on the communicator to be articulate, engage, illuminate, and connect. No wonder 75% of people experience some degree of glossophobia.
But communication is a team sport. So how are you showing up as a listener?
Are you fully present? Are you listening deeply so you can internalize and make sense of the message, or are you simply listening for the communicator to stop talking so you can jump in? Are you listening with a curiosity and openness to change your mind? Are you casting aside preconceived notions and suspending your judgment? Are you asking clarifying questions when you’re not sure?
How you listen can drastically impact how someone communicates.
