I think effective listening skills can be like oil to an engine, allowing different parts of the system to operate easily and steadily, especially in a public health field. As the oil destroys and breaks down, the resulting friction among the various parts of the engine risks impairing the reliability of overall communication system. In the same way, ineffective listening within the public health dealings can hinder success, and adversely affect the performance and commitment of all participating members. I think many leaders tend to collect data instead of paying attention for the data. Better than collecting data is listening for data. When we listen attentively, we listen with permission for what will be given to us by the interviewee rather than what we intend to take. Secondly, we also think of what the interaction is rather than jumping into conclusion. This type of listening goes beyond the listening required for our everyday interactions with others. It is the purview of philosophers, psychologists, communicators, and spiritual teachers.
