What is the first step in the listening process?

The first step in the listening process is receiving and attending. This phase involves the initial act of hearing the speaker's words as well as being mentally present and attentive to the message being conveyed. Receiving refers to the physical perception of sound, while attending signifies the mental engagement required to focus on the communication and filter out distractions.

By starting with receiving and attending, listeners establish a foundation necessary for the remaining steps in the listening process. Without properly receiving the message, it is impossible to understand, respond, or recall any information accurately. This foundational step is critical in effective communication, as it influences all subsequent engagement with the speaker's material.