BUSINESS COMMUNICATION SEM:3 UNIT:1 LISTENING> THE PROCESS OF LISTENING

The Process of Listening

Listening is a systematic process that involves more than just hearing words. It is an active skill that requires attention, understanding, memory, evaluation, and response. In business communication, listening plays a crucial role because accurate understanding of messages is necessary for decision-making, problem-solving, and maintaining effective relationships.

1. Receiving

• This is the first step of listening, where the ears receive sound waves and transfer them to the brain.
• At this stage, the listener must pay attention to the speaker and avoid distractions.
• Example: In a business meeting, carefully hearing the manager’s instructions.

2. Understanding

• Once the sounds are received, the brain interprets and gives meaning to them.
• The listener connects the speaker’s words with context, language, and prior knowledge.
• Example: Understanding whether a message is informational, persuasive, or a request.

3. Remembering

• A good listener not only understands but also retains important details for future use.
• Memory helps in recalling facts, figures, or instructions later.
• Example: Remembering deadlines or key points from a project briefing.

4. Evaluating

• At this stage, the listener critically examines the message.
• It involves analyzing the logic, truth, and relevance of what is said.
• Example: Deciding whether the given information is accurate and useful.

5. Responding

• The final step is giving feedback to the speaker, either verbally or non-verbally.
• This shows that the listener has paid attention and understood the message.
• Example: Nodding, asking a question, or summarizing the speaker’s points.

Conclusion

The process of listening is active, continuous, and purposeful. It begins with hearing the message and ends with responding to the speaker. In business communication, mastering this process is essential for reducing misunderstandings, improving teamwork, and ensuring effective decision-making.

References 

• Pal, Rajendra, and J. S. Korlhalli. Essentials of Business Communication. Sultan Chand & Sons, 2008.
• Rai, Urmila, and S. M. Rai. Business Communication. Himalaya Publishing House, 2009.
• Rayudu, C. S. Media and Communication Management. Himalaya Publishing House, 2010.
• Sinha, K. K. Business Communication. Galgotia Publishing Company, 2003.
• Sharma, R. C., and Krishna Mohan. Business Correspondence and Report Writing. Tata McGraw-Hill, 2011.
• Singh, Nirmal. Business Communication: Principles, Methods and Techniques. Deep & Deep Publications, 2006.