1. Active listening is the practice of fully focusing on understanding what someone is saying, rather than thinking about what to say in response. By mastering the following active listening techniques, you can become a better listener, improve your relationships, and encourage open communication in a variety of contexts.
2. Be fully present. Reduce distractions, maintain eye contact and focus on the speaker's words and tone of voice. This shows that you value the person's feelings and their point of view.
3. Use positive body language and non-verbal cues. These cues show the speaker that you are focused and interested in the conversation. If you're meeting online, such as during a video conference call, use positive body language and facial expressions to show that you're engaged! Maintain eye contact while the speaker is sharing their thoughts.
4. Allow the speaker to express themselves fully without breaking in with your own opinions or preferences. Breaking in can lead to miscommunication and block two-way understanding.
5. Ask clear and open-ended questions. Once the speaker finishes their thought, show that you have been listening by asking specific, open-ended questions. This encourages the speaker to further explain their thoughts and feelings.
6. Hold back advice unless asked. Unless the speaker specifically requests your input, don't offer advice or solutions. Instead, focus on listening and supporting them as they work through their own problem-solving process.
A. Summarize key points.
B. Reflect on what has been said.
C. Avoid multitasking or looking off screen.
D. Control your desire to cut in while someone is speaking.
E. To practice active listening, give the speaker your full attention.
F. It is a key part of effective communication and interpersonal skills.
G. As an active listener, your primary role is to understand, not to advise.