What is active listening

Active listening refers to the process of fully engaging in a conversation and hearing what the other person (or people) has to say while also responding appropriately. To be an active listener, you need to understand what the other person in the conversation is saying and to communicate using both verbal and non-verbal means, that you are paying attention and engaged. Active listening shows respect to the speaker and can help to foster trust and open communication.Here are 5 ways to practice active listening.

• Make regular eye contact with the other person in the conversation
• Nod in agreement or acknowledgment  to indicate that you are engaged
• Avoid interrupting the other person
• Reiterate the important things that they are saying to demonstrate that you are listening and to ensure clarity of understanding
• Ask questions