What is active listening?

Active listening is a communication technique that requires the listener to fully engage with the speaker, focusing on their message, understanding their feelings, and providing thoughtful responses. This approach involves more than just hearing the words; it necessitates concentration on the speaker's intent, emotions, and the context of the conversation. Active listeners often use verbal and non-verbal cues to signal their engagement and understanding, which fosters a deeper connection in communication and encourages open dialogue.

In this context, by actively concentrating and responding during conversations, the listener demonstrates that they value what the speaker is conveying, which enhances mutual understanding and clarity in communication. This practice is particularly important in a workplace setting, where effective communication can lead to better collaboration and problem-solving.