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• We listen to comprehend.
• We listen to have fun, learn, develop and sustain relationships.
• We listen to resolve issues.

Messages can be readily misconstrued if the ability to listen attentively is not present. As a result, communication
breaks down and the sender of the message may become angry or irritated.

Active Listening
Active listening is a crucial skill in professional settings, as it enhances communication, strengthens relationships,
and improves productivity. It plays an important role at workplace due to following reasons:
• Enhances Understanding: Active listening helps employees and employers understand instructions,
feedback, and concerns clearly, reducing miscommunication.
• Builds Stronger Relationships: Paying attention and responding thoughtfully fosters trust and collaboration
among colleagues.

• Boosts Problem-solving: Listening carefully allows individuals to analyse issues effectively and provide
better solutions.

• Increases Efficiency: When employees listen attentively, they complete tasks accurately, minimizing errors
and the need for repeated instructions.

• Encourages Respect and Teamwork: A workplace culture that values listening promotes respect and
cooperation among team members.
Steps to Active Listening

Active listening is an art that combines the desire to understand with
the ability to support and empathise with the speaker. It can have an
impact on your job effectiveness, quality of your relationship with others
and, as a result, your general well-being. Active listening enables you to
comprehend the issues and contribute to developing solutions.
The following are some of the factors that influence active listening:
• Eye Contact: Eye contact is a crucial aspect of active listening as it
helps establish engagement, trust, and understanding between the
speaker and listener. Maintaining appropriate eye contact shows
attentiveness, conveys respect, and encourages open
communication. It also helps the listener interpret non-verbal cues
such as facial expressions and emotions, leading to better
comprehension. Balanced eye contact prevents distractions and
reassures the speaker that their message is valued. However, excessive
eye contact may feel intimidating, while too little can appear disinterested. For example, in a classroom,
when a student maintains eye contact with the teacher while they explain a concept, it signals interest
and understanding, encouraging the teacher to elaborate further. Striking a natural balance by
maintaining steady but comfortable eye contact enhances effective communication and fosters
meaningful conversations.
• Gestures: Gestures enhance active listening by showing engagement and
understanding. Nodding signals agreement, hand movements express
interest, and facial expressions convey emotions. For example, nodding while
a speaker talks encourages them to continue, while an open posture shows
attentiveness. Proper use of gestures creates a supportive and interactive communication environment.

Communication Skills-IV
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