To practice active listening, leaders can follow these steps:
Give Full Attention: Avoid distractions and focus entirely on the speaker. This shows respect and ensures you capture the full message. Use Non-Verbal Cues: Maintain eye contact, nod, and use facial expressions to show that you are engaged. Reflect and Paraphrase: Repeat back what the speaker has said in your own words to confirm understanding. Ask Open-Ended Questions: Encourage further discussion by asking questions that require more than a yes or no answer. Avoid Interrupting: Let the speaker finish their thoughts before responding. This shows that you value what they are saying.