By: Bob Burg

Bob Burg — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:50:20 +0000

You’re right on all counts, Heather. It is also the responsibility of the listener to listen with an eye (well, I guess that would be, an ear) toward understanding. Now, the fact that they often won’t do that simply means that if we want to put the odds in our favor that we’ll be understood, we need to take responsibility not only to communicate properly but even ask the proper questions to make sure we are understood. Not always easy, convenient or realistic. So, when it comes right down to it, we do the best we can within the context of the situation. Thank you – I think you just gave me an idea for tomorrow’s post.

By: HeatherO

HeatherO — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 14:11:29 +0000

Great points as always! Reminds me of someone that I know that often says “why do you always take me wrong?” The challenge (IMO) is that most of the time people ‘receive’ the information through their own filter, based on their own point of view. It’s the old “you’ll always find what you’re looking for” adage. The same person mentioned above will often perceive what another says as “criticism’ or judgement even though many others wouldn’t. I am big on taking responsibility, but we cannot control the mindset of the listener can we? Not that blaming anyone is ever useful or productive!
Reminds me of what my very astute 12yo said in a letter to a life success consultant “thanks to your ability to teach AND my willingness to learn…”

Comments on: Taking Responsibility, Part Two

By: Bob Burg

By: HeatherO