Effective Listening
In the Effective Listening course, I learned the importance of becoming an attentive and intentional listener. The course highlighted how distractions, such as focusing on a speaker’s delivery rather than their message, can hinder genuine understanding. I also learned about mental filters or biases that affect how we interpret information and how they can lead to inaccurate assumptions. One of the most valuable lessons was learning how to choose the best paraphrasing techniques based on the situation, as well as understanding the five listening intentions: to recall details, understand the big picture, analyze, attune to subtle cues, and empathize. These concepts helped me evaluate my current listening habits and identify ways to improve them, both professionally and personally.
In MIS, professionals are often required to gather detailed requirements, understand user needs, and communicate complex information clearly. Poor listening can lead to misunderstandings, misaligned project goals, and inefficient solutions. By improving my listening skills, I can become a more effective communicator, collaborator, and problem-solver.