Communication
What forms of communication has helped you as a listener? I ask this because I am trying to improve my communication skills as a listener while listening at the same time.
@ScorpiaD
What’s really helped me as a listener is practicing active listening. Things like making eye contact, nodding, and summarizing what the other person says to make sure I get it right. I also try to avoid interrupting and just let them finish their thoughts. Asking open-ended questions has been a game changer, too—it shows I’m genuinely interested. Plus, staying present and not letting my mind wander helps me stay connected to the conversation.
@wishfulForest1871
That's great!
@ScorpiaD
it’s important to give clear and thoughtful responses so the other person feels heard. Providing feedback through asking follow-up questions, emojis, or reactions also helps show attentiveness and engagement.
It's the distinction between 'listening to respond' vs. 'listening to understand' that has been impressed upon me very clearly since I began as a listener here. If I'm too busy formulating a response, or waiting for an opportunity to reply, I'm doing the first. Taking time to read everything thoroughly and convey engagement, as you mentioned, fall into the latter category. Learning the difference has meant an automatic improvement in my communication skills.
meant to add, as you mentioned, @wishfulforest1871 in your detailed reply about demonstrating engagement.
@ScorpiaD active listening is very helpful
Overall, just be compassionate and attentive, in the same way you yourself would want to be heard. I also find being honest helps too, when I don't understand or said sth that the other person didn't seem to like, instead of hiding your humiliation, simply tell them and ask them to help you understand. That usually leads to deeper understanding and respect of each other.
@ScorpiaD
What forms of communication have helped you as a listener? Honesty, trustworthiness, listening and rereading what was said earlier in the session, and understanding. Knowing what the member/listener is saying.
@ScorpiaD
One of the biggest things that has helped me is learning to pause before responding. I used to think I had to immediately fix or offer advice, but now I try to listen with curiosity instead of urgency, and that small shift has made a huge difference in how people open up to me.
@ScorpiaD
Active listening, giving thoughtful responses that also ask open ended questions to allow people to explore their thoughts and feelings.