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Active Listening self-assessment.

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Active listening is a key communication skill that enhances understanding and builds trust in conversations. Conducting a self-assessment on active listening can help you evaluate and improve your listening skills. Below are some criteria and questions to consider for your self-assessment:

Self-Assessment Questions for Active Listening

1. Focus and Attention

  • Do I give my full attention to the speaker without distractions?
  • Am I able to maintain eye contact to show that I am engaged?
  • Do I avoid interrupting the speaker while they are talking?

2. Body Language

  • Do I use open and welcoming body language while listening?
  • Is my posture attentive, leaning slightly forward to show interest?
  • Do I use nodding and other non-verbal signals to indicate I am listening?

3. Paraphrasing and Summarizing

  • Do I paraphrase what the speaker has said to confirm my understanding?
  • Do I ask clarifying questions to ensure I understand their message fully?
  • Am I able to summarize key points effectively at the end of the conversation?

4. Empathy and Understanding

  • Am I sensitive to the speaker's emotions and feelings?
  • Do I validate the speaker’s feelings and viewpoints, even if I do not necessarily agree?
  • Can I set aside my own opinions and biases to hear what the speaker is expressing?

5. Feedback and Responses

  • Do I provide feedback that encourages the speaker to continue sharing?
  • Am I able to express my thoughts without overpowering the speaker?
  • Do I avoid jumping to conclusions and instead consider the speaker's perspective?

6. Open-Ended Questions

  • Do I ask open-ended questions that encourage further dialogue?
  • Am I skilled at steering the conversation to explore deeper insights?
  • Do I allow for pauses in the conversation so the speaker feels comfortable continuing?

Scoring Your Assessment

For each question, rate yourself on a scale from 1 to 5:

  • 1 = Strongly Disagree
  • 2 = Disagree
  • 3 = Neutral
  • 4 = Agree
  • 5 = Strongly Agree

Reflection

Once you have completed your self-assessment, reflect on the following:

  • What areas do I excel in when it comes to active listening?
  • What specific areas do I need to improve?
  • What strategies or techniques can I implement to enhance my active listening skills?

Action Plan

  1. Set Specific Goals: Identify 1-3 specific goals based on your reflection.
  2. Practice Regularly: Look for opportunities to practice active listening in daily interactions.
  3. Seek Feedback: Ask trusted friends or colleagues for feedback on your listening skills.
  4. Observe Others: Watch skilled communicators and take notes on their listening techniques.

By regularly assessing and practicing your active listening skills, you can enhance your communication and build stronger relationships.