Which is considered an effective listening strategy?

An effective listening strategy involves actively engaging with the speaker to demonstrate understanding and encourage further communication. Providing feedback by asking questions and nodding indicates that you are not only hearing the words being said but are also processing the information and showing interest in the conversation.

Asking questions invites clarification and demonstrates your eagerness to understand the speaker’s points, fostering a more dynamic and interactive dialogue. Nodding, meanwhile, provides non-verbal confirmation that you are paying attention and encourages the speaker to continue sharing their thoughts. Together, these actions create a supportive and open environment that is conducive to effective communication.

Options that involve looking away or speaking more than the other person detract from the listening experience and can lead to misunderstandings or disengagement. Only nodding without asking questions may suggest that you are passively listening rather than actively participating in the conversation, which does not enhance the effectiveness of communication.