Welcome to my world
Featured in the Listening Skills training manual
By Jessica Madge
Category: Communication Skills
Credit price: 4 download credits (Single user)
Most of us assume that everyone thinks in the same way as we do. It can be a revelation to discover, for instance, that while some of us think in pictures, others tend to represent the world in terms of sounds, bodily sensations, tastes or smells. This knowledge can be used to strengthen rapport. First, we have to extend our listening skills to notice how someone is representing the world. This can be inferred from the kind of words used, and from eye movements. Once we have identified which sensory modalities they are using, we can then use the right kind of imagery when we are reflecting their thoughts and feelings. In this way, an even stronger rapport will be developed with customers, clients, colleagues – in fact, anyone we seek to influence.
This training activity begins with the participants identifying how they represent the world inside their own heads. Then, they work in pairs trying to identify, through observation of words and eye movements, how their partner is thinking about the world. Next, they analyse some passages of poetry to heighten their awareness of how different kinds of sensory imagery can be used. This is followed by an active exercise in which they hunt for cards with appropriate reflective responses. Finally, participants work in pairs to practise reflecting in their partner’s preferred mode.
Who is it for: This training activity is intended for use by trainers to introduce to participants to the idea that mental representations of the world vary between individuals, and that this knowledge can be used to increase out effectiveness as listeners.
| Resource Type: | Activity |
| Min Group Size: | 4 |
| Max Group Size: | 20 |
| Typical Duration: | 02:40:00 |
| No of Pages: | 22 |
Resources: View standard resources for Fenman training activities
Additional resources: Sets of highlighter pens (one set per four participants), Postcard sized cards, Clipboards for participants (optional).
Purpose: This advanced training activity can be used with people who are becoming skilled at listening, building rapport and reflecting feelings, and who are ready to take their competence a step further. The technique can be used in all listening situations, but particularly in negotiating, influencing, dealing with complaints, selling, mediation and counselling.
Download the training activity, Welcome to my world as featured in the Fenman training manual; Listening Skills