How can you demonstrate active listening in a conversation?

Making eye contact and paying full attention is a key component of active listening. This approach not only shows the speaker that you are engaged and value their message but also helps you fully absorb and understand the information being conveyed. Eye contact can foster a connection, signaling to the speaker that you are focused on them and their words, which encourages open communication. Paying full attention means minimizing distractions, allowing for greater comprehension and retention of the conversation.

In contrast, interrupting to clarify can disrupt the flow of conversation and may lead to misunderstandings or frustration on the part of the speaker. Only responding when asked suggests a lack of engagement and may come off as disinterest in the conversation. Daydreaming while others speak clearly indicates a disengaged state, making it impossible to actively listen and participate meaningfully in the dialogue. Active listening is about creating a supportive and communicative environment, and maintaining eye contact and attention is essential to achieving that.