1. Empathetic Listening
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2. 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

3. How to Listen Empathetically
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

4. Create a positive atmosphere
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

5. Specific things to Avoid DON’T Change the subject
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