Commerce for Women, Tumkur Meaning Listening is an active process that involves receiving, interpreting and understanding a message. Types of Listening 1. Active listening 2. Inactive listening 3. Attentive listening 4. Inattentive listening Steps For Effective Listening 1. Prepare for listening 2. Concentrate and determine the purpose of the message 3. Pay attention 4. Do not talk 5. Hear the message, note down when necessary 6. Process and analyze the message for understanding 7. Seek clarification where and when necessary 8. Memorize for short or long time 9. Take necessary action as a follow up or use feedback