Discover the Impact of Different Listening Approaches Behavioral research shows that people approach listening with different purposes and with different motivations related to achieving that purpose. The Personal Listening Profile® is a self-directed learning instrument that helps people discover their preferred or most natural approach to listening as they gain insight into the different listening approaches of others. The Personal Listening Profile identifies five listening approaches: Appreciative, Empathic, Comprehensive, Discerning, and Evaluative. The Personal Listening Profile also helps people see that their preferred listening approach may not be appropriate to every situation. They learn when and how to adopt another listening approach for more successful communication. It outlines three primary factors to consider in choosing the listening approach appropriate to the situation: Purpose, Motivation, and Behavioral Indicators.