communications

 

The Listening Cs

Many organisations' services are underscored by effective listening, from relationship restoration to employment arbitration. But the listening element is rarely made explicit, and a co-ordinated, enthusiastic national initiative would raise the profile and practice of great listening. Kids would feel, and be, better understood - including teenagers. Including teenagers in trouble with the law. Managers would be more responsive to staff ideas and concerns. Partners would be more appreciative of each other. People with a diagnosis of schizophrenia would have a positive experience of really being heard, to help counter-act the impact of hearing voices. Everyone would benefit, as listeners and the listened to.

We're developing the Listening Cs project to better equip people in listening skills, in particular the core ones of concentrating, continuing and checking. It sounds a bit stuffy and formal, but it would feel vibrant and hip, while being focused and rigorous.

Samaritans are the first voluntary organisation to join the project group, and Happy are the first company.