HOW TO COMMUNICATE|Video Skills

ACTIVE LISTENING

One way to improve your communication competence is by learning how to really listen to others. Learn how to support others through listening by completing the How to Communicate video activity below.

CONSIDER THIS:

Reynaldo, a close friend, asks you to critique an informative speech he’s preparing for class. However, during the rehearsal, he breaks down emotionally, confessing that his father—who has been increasingly forgetful—has been recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.

WHAT WOULD YOU DO?

The advice below illustrates how active listening skills can help you communicate with and comfort someone in distress. As you watch the video, consider how the dialogue incorporates skills like managing feedback, adapting listening functions, and silence, when appropriate. Then, test your knowledge of key skills, and create your own responses to the What if? video prompts on the next page.

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ADAPT YOUR LISTENING FUNCTION from analytical to support and adopt a people-oriented style that expresses empathy for your friend and his family. (“I am so sorry to hear this. My thoughts go out to you and your father. How are you both holding up?”)

MANAGE YOUR FEEDBACK by making your attentiveness obvious. Put away your phone, provide eye contact, and lean toward him. (“What can I do to help out?”)

RECOGNIZE THE VALUE OF SILENCE by not rushing to fill the conversational space with your own talk (“My grandmother also had Alzheimer’s…”). Instead, let your friend speak as he wishes.

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