The Active Listening Technique
Abstract
Active listening is a communication technique that focuses on the message that is being conveyed by the speaker by taking the time to understand the speaker’s perspective, emotions and intentions [1]. This involves a variety of skills, such as showing empathy, paraphrasing and providing nonverbal feedback. The goal of active listening is to gain a deeper understanding of the speaker and their message to improve communication, trust and collaboration. In project, portfolio and program management, active listening is an especially useful tool in enhancing communication and problem-solving, and creating a more positive and dynamic team collaboration [2]. At the same time, it allows the project manager to make informed decisions, manage expectations and resolve conflicts. However, good management requires a variety of skills and approaches depending on the team, situation and project goal. Active listening should be used in combination with approaches such as brainstorming, mediation or collaborative problem-solving for the best results. With more work and meetings being done online recently, it presents a challenge for practicing active listening, which for a large part relies on non-verbal and face-to-face communication. It is important to keep communicating verbally instead of only in text and to utilize visual aids in online meetings to increase non-verbal communication and increase the overall experience [3][4].
Abstract references
1. Inga Jona Jonsdottir & Kristrun Fridriksdottir (2020) ACTIVE LISTENING: IS IT THE FORGOTTEN DIMENSION IN MANAGERIAL COMMUNICATION?, International Journal of Listening, DOI:10.1080/10904018.2019.1613156
2. Project Management Institute, Inc.. (2017). Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK® Guide) (6th Edition), Inc. (PMI). Retrieved from https://app.knovel.com/hotlink/pdf/id:kt011DXH02/guide-project-management
3. Bauer, Christine, Figl, Kathrin, & Motschnig-Pitrik, Renate (2009). Introducing “Active Listening” to Instant Messaging and E-mail: Benefits and Limitations. IADIS International Journal on WWW/Internet 7(2), IADIS. Retrieved from https://gruppe.wst.univie.ac.at/~bauer/chb_eu/wp-content/uploads/2017/10/bauer2010_iadis_activelistening_preprint.pdf
4. Danby, Susan, Butler, Carly, & Emmison, Michael (2009) When 'listeners can't talk': comparing active listening in opening sequences of telephone and online counseling. Australian Journal of Communication, 36(3), pp. 91-114. Retrieved from https://eprints.qut.edu.au/29064/
Table of contents:
- Abstract - Big idea: definition, description, purpose, importance, history, specifics for project management. - Application: how to practice, how to become better at it, when to use it, how to practice online / written. - Limitations: it is not a complete solution, what increases the chances of effective active listening, alternatives. - Annotated bibliography - References
