Active Listening Techniques

Questions and Answers

Keeping a mental picture of the conversation objective

Total concentration and active engagement with the speaker

Give the speaker the benefit of the doubt, empathize with them, and ask for what you need

Genuinely showing interest in what a speaker is saying Signup and view all the answers

They hinder effective listening and understanding Signup and view all the answers

Acknowledge your state and take steps to become more present in the conversation Signup and view all the answers

It enables better focus and understanding during the conversation Signup and view all the answers

Genuine interest in what the speaker is saying Signup and view all the answers

Prejudice and bias Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

To practice great listening, it's essential to recognize and challenge one's assumptions, which can hinder the ability to listen effectively.
A key aspect of active listening is being aware of one's thought process and avoiding assumptions that can distort the listening process.

When tired, hungry, or stressed out during a conversation, it's crucial to acknowledge these physical and emotional states and take steps to minimize their impact on listening.
One should prioritize their physical and emotional well-being to ensure they can focus on the conversation.

Mirroring in the context of listening involves mimicking the speaker's verbal and non-verbal cues, such as body language and tone, to build rapport and create a sense of connection.
Practicing mirroring unconsciously indicates a high level of empathy and understanding in the listener.

To listen effectively, it's essential to avoid assumptions and distortions that can alter the intended meaning of the message.
Beginning each conversation with an objective in mind helps to focus attention and ensure that the listener is aware of their goals and expectations.
Factors such as personal biases, emotional states, and physical distractions can impede one's ability to listen well, highlighting the importance of self-awareness and effective listening strategies.