Active Listening

Practice understanding others deeply

Why Active Listening Matters

Active listening is more than just hearing words—it's about fully understanding the other person's perspective, emotions, and needs. In tough conversations, it:

Builds trust and psychological safety
Helps you understand the real issue, not just surface symptoms
Reduces defensiveness and opens dialogue

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Practice Scenario

Choose the response that demonstrates active listening

Your colleague says: 'I'm frustrated because I feel like my ideas never get heard in team meetings.'

What's the best active listening response?

You should speak up more confidently. That's what I do.

It sounds like you're feeling overlooked in meetings. Can you tell me more about what's happening?

I know exactly how you feel. The same thing happens to me all the time.

Active Listening Techniques

Reflective Listening

Mirror back what you heard: "It sounds like you're feeling..." or "What I'm hearing is..."

Clarifying Questions

Ask for specifics: "Can you help me understand..." or "What do you mean by..."

Summarizing

Recap key points: "So if I understand correctly, you're saying..." to ensure alignment

Non-Verbal Cues

Maintain eye contact, nod, lean in slightly, and avoid distracting behaviors