Assess Your Listening StyleThe following statements describe the ways some people think and behave when they
are in various listening situations. Please indicate in the space at the left of each item
the degree to which you believe the statement applies to you, using the following
five-point scale: 1 = not like me at all; 2 = somewhat like me; 3 = neither like me nor
unlike me; 4 = somewhat like me; and 5 = very much like me.1. I am frustrated when others don’t present their ideas in an orderly, efficient way.
2. I prefer to listen to technical information.
3. I focus my attention on other people’s feelings when listening to them.
4. When hurried, I let others know that I have a limited amount of time to listen.
5. When listening to others, I focus on any inconsistencies and/or errors in what’s
being said.
6. I prefer to hear facts and evidence so I can personally evaluate them.
7. When listening to others, I quickly notice if they are pleased or disappointed.
8. I begin a discussion by telling others how long I have to meet.
9. I often jump ahead and/or finish the thoughts of speakers.
10. I like the challenge of listening to complex information.
11. I become involved when listening to the problems of others.
12. I interrupt others when I feel pressured by time.
13. I am impatient with people who ramble on during conversations.
14. I ask questions to probe for additional information.
15. I nod my head and/or use eye contact to show interest in what others are saying.
16. I look at my watch or clocks in the room when I have limited time to listen to others.
Add your scores for the questions here:
Question # Score
1, 5, 9, 13: _____ If greater than 15: You are an action-oriented listener who focuses on tasks
and organizes things into themes.
2, 6, 10, 14 _____ If greater than 15: You are a content-oriented listener who carefully
evaluates what you hear.
3, 7, 11, 15 _____ If greater than 15: You are a people-oriented listener who listens with
relationships in mind.
4, 8, 12, 16 _____ If greater than 15: You are a time-oriented listener who is concerned with
efficiency.
Note: Like many people, you may score high on a number of these styles. This may contribute
to your behavioral flexibility if you are able to use the listening behaviors that are most effective
and appropriate for the person and situation.
Source: Adapted from Bodie, Worthington, and Gearhart (2013).what about you?
156