
In addition to asking open questions, also ask specific questions. This makes the speaker think that the other person was listening to him or her. Avoid ending or changing the subject abruptly. An example of this is: ‘what changes would you like to make to the CRM system in the next six months?’Īsking questions in general shows interest. Make sure that these questions cannot be answered with yes or no.

This confirmation gives the speaker the opportunity to explain information or to elaborate on or confirm the message.Īn example is a manager who comments in a meeting with his employee, “So, what you just said is that the current CRM system no longer meets the technical needs of the teams?” Ask open questionsīy asking open questions the listener shows that he or she has understood the essence of what is being shared. In this way the listener shows that he or she fully understands the speaker. Paraphrasing is the summarising of the most important points of the speaker’s message in your own words. Skills and techniquesĬritical thinking involves the use of different techniques and the learning of skills Below are several tips that can help you develop your active listening skills. Conversely, active listening allows people to gather information that promotes communication as well as critical thinking. People with these skills are able to organise information they receive, understand the context or reference, recognise assumptions, make connections, determine the level of truth and draw conclusions. To enhance their critical thinking capability, it is important that they constantly listen actively.

#Active listening in communication professional
It’s important to learn this highly valued interpersonal communication in both professional and everyday life. Examples include eye contact, facial expressions like nodding of the head, smiling, using words like “hm” to encourage the other person to continue, and other forms of affirmation. Interest can be shown by using both verbal and non-verbal messages. If the speaker does not see the listener actively listening, the speaker can conclude that what they are talking about is of no interest to the listener.

Do you want unlimited ad-free access and templates? Find out more
