What is the first step in the process of listening?

The correct answer is receiving. This step involves the initial act of perceiving sounds and ensuring that the message is taken in. When listening, receiving is crucial, as it is the foundation upon which the entire process of listening builds. Without effective receiving, subsequent stages such as attending, understanding, and responding cannot occur, as the listener must first be aware of the incoming message.

Receiving encompasses not just the auditory perception but also the physical and mental readiness to absorb what is being communicated. It is about being attentive to the speaker and the content being shared. This initial engagement is essential to establish a clear pathway for the listener to comprehend and interact with the speaker's message later on. In essence, effective communication starts with the ability to receive the incoming information adequately.