While the other person is speaking, it is easy to start preparing our response and miss part of what they are trying to explain. Especially in disagreement, listening then becomes waiting for your turn instead of trying to understand.
It is useful to check that we understand the problem well before offering a solution. A precise question or a brief repetition of what we have heard can open up an important correction.
A listening leader does not have to accept every suggestion. They should enable the proposal to be understood and explain their decision. People then have a clearer picture of the conversation, even when the answer is not what they were hoping for.
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