14/08/2023
Active listening is a communication technique that involves fully engaging with and understanding the speaker's message. It goes beyond simply hearing the words being spoken and involves giving your full attention to the speaker, showing empathy, and providing feedback to demonstrate that you are genuinely interested in what they are saying.
Here are some key aspects of active listening:
Attentive Presence: Give the speaker your full attention. Put away distractions and focus on what they're saying. Maintain eye contact and open body language to show that you are engaged.
Empathy: Try to understand the speaker's perspective and emotions. Put yourself in their shoes and imagine how they might be feeling. This helps create a deeper connection and rapport.
Minimal Interruptions: Avoid interrupting the speaker while they're talking. Wait for them to finish their thoughts before you respond or ask questions. Interrupting can disrupt their flow and make them feel unheard.
Clarification: If something is unclear, ask open-ended questions to seek clarification. This shows that you're genuinely interested in understanding their message.
Reflective Responses: After the speaker has shared their thoughts, paraphrase or summarize what they said to show that you've been actively listening. This demonstrates that you've understood their message and gives them a chance to confirm or clarify.
Nonverbal Cues: Your body language, facial expressions, and gestures can convey your interest and understanding. Nodding, smiling, and maintaining eye contact can help signal your engagement.
Avoid Judgment: Suspend judgment and refrain from jumping to conclusions or offering immediate solutions. Sometimes, people just want to be heard and understood without receiving advice or opinions.
Silence: Don't be afraid of moments of silence. Sometimes, people need time to gather their thoughts or express their feelings. Rushing to fill every pause can hinder effective communication.
Respectful Feedback: Once the speaker has finished sharing, offer your thoughts or feedback in a respectful and considerate manner. This can foster a constructive dialogue.
