Question

Active Listening Active listening is a key part of communication. What does active listening look like and how do you practice it? Be sure to support your answer.

Answer 1

Active listening, is rather different from, generally, peoples' perception of listening. It involves focussing fully on the speaker and concentrating on what is being spoken, also observing the mannerisms of the speaker. It also involves physical indications, that you are indeed paying attention and a means to assure the speaker, that you are indulged in what he has to offer. Nodding your head affirmatively, trying to keep eye contact are key aspects to be mentioned whenever active listening is involved. Verbal indicators like; 'I see' , 'I get it' are some examples. Basically, physically and verbally reflecting your thoughts on what is being spoken and the speaker is what constitutes active listening.

You can practice it by eradicating or holding off on personal thoughts and concentrate only on the speaker and his/her words. It is indeed hard at first to listen to and note every word spoken, but it is not hard to practice and learn the gestures and ways.