The Power of Listening: A Key to Success

The Art of Listening in Acting

The popular show "Inside the Actor's Studio" on Bravo, features weekly interviews with renowned actors. The audience, composed of students from the Masters Program at the New School in New York City, are given the opportunity to learn from these seasoned professionals. When asked for a piece of advice for aspiring actors, the response is almost always the same: "Listen."

Listening, in this context, is not merely a function of the ears, but rather a function of the mind. It involves absorbing not just the spoken words, but also the facial expressions, body language, and the overall environment of the other person. This is what allows actors to respond spontaneously and authentically to their co-stars' lines, even when they already know what those lines will be.

The Power of Spontaneity

Actors like Jack Nicholson are known for their ability to induce spontaneity in their co-stars. No scene is ever played the same way twice, even though the lines remain the same. This unpredictability keeps the performance fresh and engaging.

The Importance of Listening for Directors and Writers

Directors and writers also need to master the art of listening. Directors need to be attentive to everything happening on the set, from the actors' performances to the input of the crew. Writers, on the other hand, need to listen to the way people talk, their language, gestures, and movements. All these elements contribute to creating authentic and relatable characters and stories.

Listening in Marketing and Sales

In the world of marketing and sales, listening to the customer is crucial. As Frank Bettger stated in his classic book, "How I Raised Myself From Failure to Success in Selling," the most important secret of salesmanship is to find out what the other person wants and help them get it. This can only be achieved through effective listening.

Listening as a Life Skill

Listening is not just a professional skill, but a life skill. It helps us understand others, fulfill their needs, and build strong relationships. It also helps us listen to our inner voice, which guides us in making decisions and taking actions.

Improving Your Listening Skills

Here are a few tips to improve your listening skills:

• Spend a few quiet moments with yourself before starting any new task.
• Remind yourself to listen each time you pick up the phone.
• After a conversation, write down everything the other person said to you.
• After meeting someone, write down what you remember about them, their behavior, and their body language.

By practicing these steps, you can develop a lifelong habit of listening that will not only enhance your personal and professional relationships but also your overall enjoyment of life. So, remember: "Shhhhh. Listen!