On the listening skills assessment I scored right in the middle in between a good listener and a poor listener, so I am a decent listener. I believe that I can improve in my listening skills by becoming a better active listener because I know that I tend to plan out my responses in conversation rather than giving my full attention to people. Sometimes my mind wanders in conversation, and it is hard for me to keep focus on a conversation especially if I am confused, distracted, or if there is sensory overload like noise, people, etc.
I assess someone’s listening and feedback by their attentiveness in the conversation. I look at their facial expressions, body language and eye contact to see if they are paying attention or if they are interested in the conversation. I also listen to how they reply in the conversation: if it is short, simple replies or if they are detailed responses that demonstrate an understanding of the conversation. Since this is how I assess other people’s listening, I try to do the same for myself by physically showing that I am listening by not crossing my arms, keeping my body facing the person who is speaking, maintaining good eye contact, and nodding and giving verbal feedback.
I receive feedback best when it is done privately, and when I am also told what I am doing well in addition to being provided ways to improve. I like knowing how to improve, so critiques are best received when it is done kindly and not aggressively. This awareness may impact me as a social worker because I know some clients may be agitated and frustrated when they speak, but I believe I would take critiques from clients differently than I would from a coworker, especially knowing that my clients may be under stress and have other factors that may make them agitated and possibly judgmental.