With a deeper understanding of what is being communicated, both academically and emotionally, empathy listening is a disciplined listening and questioning strategy that enables you to build and improve connections. As a result, it advances active listening approaches.
In this post, we'll look at how honest and effective empathetic listening may help you build team trust and deal with the underlying causes of conflicts at work.
Listening with empathy involves more than just hearing what people are saying; it's a dynamic process. Additionally, you are speaking with that individual. You're showing that you respect their opinions and sentiments and that you're willing to hear them out.
Sometimes, all it takes to show someone you care about them is simply being there for them and acting as a sounding board for their emotions. How about we focus our attention on giving our time and compassion instead of worrying about the appropriate words?
7 Empathic Listening Tips
1. Practice non-judgment.
Although it's not always simple, letting go of your own ideas allows you to concentrate on the viewpoint of the other person. Understanding someone else's opinions and feelings enables you to assist them. It's important to let them know you care about them and that they matter, which doesn't mean you have to agree with everything they say.
2. Give the individual your whole attention.
Avoid any commotion. Make sure you have the time to spend with the individual, and make sure nothing, not even a computer, is in the way. Respect is demonstrated by giving someone your complete attention, and people are more likely to remain calm when they experience respect.
3. Pay close attention (to feelings and facts).
Take in the words as well as the overall picture of that person in that particular circumstance. To go beyond the words and understand emotions, pay attention to body language, tone of voice, and other cues.
4. Demonstrate that you are paying close attention.
Consider your stance and nonverbal cues. Use encouraging non-interruptive body language, such as eye contact, nodding, and other signs as necessary, to show that you are paying attention.
5. Ignore your fear of stillness.
At times, all that someone needs to know is that they are seen or heard. Before reacting, take into account the circumstances and the tone of the silence. The individual could be deliberating what to say next or may want some time alone to unwind.
6. Summarize and paraphrase.
When speaking, make reference to the other person's statements, ask questions, and clarify any remarks as necessary. Allow the person time to react while maintaining a courteous and non-judgmental attitude. Keep in mind that there is no playbook for empathy listening. Adapt your response to the person, circumstance, and time.
7. Maintain contact
Ask the person if they have any further inquiries or remarks. If necessary, arrange another time to meet.
Conclusion
Next time you have a crucial conversation, keep in mind to put these sympathetic listening guidelines into practice. Your connections with others will undoubtedly get better if you constantly practice listening with empathy.
How do you listen in your everyday life? Which tactics are most effective for you?
