Be a Strategic Listener

Any model on the communication process illustrates the idea that effective communications is 50% listening. Parents, teachers, managers and engineers are all subject to the same physical condition - we have two ears and one mouth, so do half as much speaking as listening.

Strategic listening is a deeper process and attitude. One can listen with the goal of making an immediate response. We are all guilty of this - especially as parents! We can also listen with the goal of learning - to gain a deeper knowledge or understanding of a particular point of view, issue or experience. We should all have the goal of becoming strategic listeners.