There are several factors that help listening skills, including intelligence, verbal competence, and motivation. The listening process involves leveling to understand information, sharpening one's focus, and assimilating the information. There are different types of listening from passive to active, where active listening involves fully leveling and assimilating the information from the speaker. Good listening provides benefits like a wider perspective, increased competence and objectivity. Essentials for good listening are having a positive attitude, concentration, interaction and question/answer sequences. Deterrents to listening include a lack of interest, ego issues, focusing on oneself, fears, and preconceived ideas.