Copyright © The Beyond Intractability Project Beyond Intractability is a Registered Trademark of the University of Colorado PowerPoint Summary of: Empathetic Listening

Slide 2: Empathetic Listening… is a way of listening and responding to another person that improves mutual understanding and trust. Benefits of Empathetic Listening: Builds trust and respect Allows for emotional release Reduces tensions Uncovers “hidden” information Creates a safe environment Helps clarify parties’ thoughts Aids understanding of context PowerPoint Summary of: Empathetic Listening

Slide 3: How to Listen Empathetically Actively attempt to understand the Other’s point of view Take in information without passing judgment Acknowledge the speaker Model empathetic practices Create a trusting environment Allow the expression of emotion and sharing of problems PowerPoint Summary of: Empathetic Listening

Slide 4: Specific things to DO: Be attentive Be interested Be alert Create a positive atmosphere Allow the Other to bounce ideas off of you Indicate you are listening Reflect your understanding back to the speaker PowerPoint Summary of: Empathetic Listening

Slide 5: Specific things to Avoid DON’T: Change the subject Discount the speakers’ feelings Let the speaker “hook” you into an emotional exchange Interrupt Give advice Interrogate PowerPoint Summary of: Empathetic Listening