Anything that hampers listening sets up barriers that prevent understanding and closes the door to the ultimate goal of communication – producing constructive action. Barriers to listening are found in physical situations, in attitudes, and in behavior. Awareness of barriers allows you to take appropriate action to keep the door to communication open.
We have covered how the Physical and Attitude Barriers hamper communication…now on to Behavior Barriers.
Behaviors that reduce the power of communication include both verbal and nonverbal actions that cut off listening. One of the most frequently observed listening barriers is interrupting the speaker. When people interrupt the speaker, their actions may be perceived as lack of understanding, impoliteness, or rejection.
Other verbal barriers to listening include criticizing and attempting to control. Habitual criticizers stop the flow of creative ideas from others. Nonstop talkers and those who attempt to manipulate or control other people and situations send the message that they consider communication as one-way – from them to everyone else. They do not stop to ask themselves or others, “What do I need to know?”
Nonverbal behavior barriers to listening are often seen in the posture. Slumping down in a chair, avoiding eye contact,
obvious preoccupation with other matters, and nervous handling of objects all telegraph the message, “I’m not listening and you can’t make me.”
Part 4 coming soon…how to “Actively Listen”
LMI Journal 2012
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