7.3.3 Evaluative listening
Evaluative listening is useful when you are trying to make an evaluation of the sender's information. An important part of evaluative listening is to differentiate between facts and emotion-laden words or statements, for example 'They look fantastic on you. You must buy them or you'll be disappointed with yourself for not treating yourself to such a beautiful pair of shoes.' The facts might be that you don't need the shoes and they would not suit anything in your wardrobe. In this case, objective, evaluative listening is important. Evaluative listening is also important for assertive behaviour as it allows you to think through the facts and provide objective feedback rather than be 'hood-winked' by emotion.
Activity 7d
What strategies could be used to improve evaluative listening?