A very important part of the listening skills is to reflect on what has been said. It demonstrates the understanding and acceptance on what has been said. The only time when you ask questions is when you want to seek clarification of any ambiguity if there is any.
It is not arguably decent to judge, advise or to confront. But you must use reflective techniques to respond whenever necessary. So what is the need of this?
- You want to understand other person feelings fully. Because the essence of communication is two way, understanding each other and expressing your views on any topic or subject.
- It is even necessary when you sense the other person is not sure about his / her thought or feelings about the situation. Your move is just to help him / her.
- Reflective responses helps the speaker to make genuine efforts to express clearly if he or she has not been able to express clearly if he or she has not been able to do so. In such an instance describe in words the core content of the speaker communication. Then you must politely ask if you have understood him / her properly.
- Reflecting meaning of the speakers points would mean by simply & concisely summarizing the speaker’s content and emotions. You may also summarise by restarting the theme & feelings of what has been said.
Acquiring these skills of listening is not an overnight adventure or achievement. It takes time to own and polish how and when of their use. Effective listening at its core is a social skills. It is also one that will take you further down the road of demonstrating what we can achieve together, can be far greater than the sum total of our individual contributions.
