Challenging effective listening traditional theory

In the 2005 article, “The Listening Style Inventory (LSI) as an Instrument for Improving Listening Skill,” Juanying Lu addresses the importance of effective and appropriate listening as key elements to successful communication. This concept is particularly relevant when, for example, writing newsletter articles and reporting on specific information. During interviews, one has to practice effective listening to understand and quote appropriately, confirming through feedback the accuracy of the message. In addition, one has to select what part of the message is relevant. In that regard, the statement “appropriateness addresses social acceptability of communication goals” (Lu, 2005) is not accurate. Appropriateness should be considered as a skill to differentiate what part of the information delivered is pertinent.

However, previous research from Dillon and McKenzie conducted in 1998 demonstrates that “a message has several purposes: to be understood; to understand others; to gain acceptance for yourself and/or for your ideas; and to produce action or change” (as cited in Lu, 2005.) Developing awareness of the listening process is a significant concept that one should reflect on upon reading Lu’s article. To improve communication skills, it is necessary to assess which predominant listening style applies and make a conscious effort to listen closely.

New technologies can present a challenge in communicating appropriately in an ever-increasing virtual and cross-cultural organizational world where information has become knowledge. According to Sheila Bentley, this affects “what we listen to, whom we listen to, and how we listen to” (Bentley, 2000.) We can no longer rely on nonverbal cues, direct feedback or comments to determine the meaning of a message. As a consequence, new listening behaviors are emerging in interpersonal relationships. On an intrapersonal level, the overload of information leads to “become more selective about what we listen to” (Bentley, 2000.)

To successfully communicate in the 21st century, it is important to take into account cultural differences in listening style and in the use of technology (Bentley, 2000.) The traditional concept of effective listening no longer applies. In that respect, Bentley’s article offers a new and more accurate perspective on challenges companies face to implement effective communication strategies and manage employees.

References
Bentley, Sheila. C. (2000). .Listening in the 21st century. International Journal of Listening. 14, pp. 129-142
Lu, Jianying. (2005). The listening style inventory as an instrument for improving listening skill. Sino-US English Teaching, 2(5), 45-50.