How to bring attention to someone’s lack of attention.
| | Hi John, Do you have a friend or colleague who doesn’t listen well? Do they tune you out, daydream, get distracted by devices? Today’s Q&A offers a few ideas for addressing such behavior.
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| | | Crucial Conversations for Accountability | |
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| Addressing a Poor Listener | by Brittney Maxfield |
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| I’ve noticed lately that my friend isn’t giving me her full attention when I’m speaking. She will start the conversation, but when I’m discussing a point, her attention starts to wander. Sometimes she won’t even acknowledge what I’m saying. It feels like she wants to end the conversation while I’m still speaking. It’s very hurtful and it makes me feel like she does not value what I say. How can I get her to stop doing this? Signed, Ignored
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| | In our busy, technology-saturated world, gaining and retaining people’s attention can feel like an impossible challenge. We must compete with smartphones in every hand and screens on every wall. And if not distracted by screens, people are preoccupied with an overloaded to-do list and anxiety around getting it all done. I can empathize with your frustration of not having your friend’s attention. I can also empathize with your friend who is struggling to give you the attention you deserve. |
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| | | | Apr 15–19 | Crucial Conversations® for Accountability | Join us live online and learn how to:
Master performance discussions. Manage projects without taking over. Reach alignment when stakes are high and opinions vary. Strengthen trust and reliability. Get results and improve relationships. | | |
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| | | It seems rather incongruous that in a society of super sophisticated communication we often suffer from a shortage of listeners. | | | |
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