1.2 problem of listening
we often enter into a conversation with either our own “game-plan” about how we are going to control the conversation in terms of topic, structure, duration, etc., or preconceived ideas of how it will develop instead of actually listening to our interlocutor. This means that we tend to listen for what we want to hear instead of what is actually said and filter out anything which does not fit into our plan of the communication or our own ideas.
To listen effectively, we need to be able to dedicate time to the task. Any conversation where one or both parties are worried about the time available is bound to suffer from listening problems. In a business context, we have to ensure that we have programmed sufficient time to be able to communicate effective with the other parties involved.
Most people generally have a tendency to expect, and look for, logical sequences or structure in their communication. In an aural / oral conversation, if we believe that “A” is true, and “B” is also true, then “C” and every following element must logically fit with the information preceding & following it. If this does not occur it conflicts with our expectations and frequently creates incongruence which leads to a block in the communication.
Here is an example of core skill development: Listening to English while at the same time doing another task, for instance, the ironing, driving, washing the dishes. OK to start you may have problems, but these problems will become less as you practice more
Remember that although sitting quietly and listening to English has many useful benefits and indeed is very important, you are not fully exercising all core skills unless you do something else at the same time.