Active listening is the key to successful communication in everyday working life. It helps to avoid misunderstandings, strengthen relationships and work more efficiently. Find out how this technique can positively change your conversations. 

Interpersonal communication: a complex topic 

Communication is the foundation of every interpersonal interaction. However, it is often precisely this foundation that leads to misunderstandings and frustration in many conversations. One of the main reasons for this is that we often don't listen properly. Instead, we are focused on what we want to say next or how we will react to the other person's words. This is where the concept of active listening comes into play - a technique that, if used correctly, can significantly improve the quality of our communication. 

Where problems often occur in unsatisfactory conversations 

Different opinions, interests and personalities often clash in professional discussions. This often leads to conversations reaching an impasse. A common problem is that listeners remain passive. They may hear what is being said, but they don't really understand it. Instead of concentrating fully on what is being said, they are preoccupied with their own thoughts or are just waiting to speak themselves.  

A common mistake is interrupting the other person. This signals a lack of interest and can lead to important information being lost. We also often form an opinion while listening or have prejudices that distort our understanding. This also makes us less likely to listen to our conversation partners.  
In a professional context in particular, there is another negative phenomenon that can occur in meetings: Multitasking. In online meetings in particular, it's easy to get caught up in other things when you're not part of the conversation. This includes checking emails or thinking about other tasks while someone is talking. This leads to us missing essential parts of the conversation. 

Active listening as a solution 

So-called "active listening" is a technique that has been developed to correct these common communication errors. It's about paying full attention to the speaker and making sure you fully and correctly understand their message. Here are the core elements of active listening: 

1. Attentive listening: Focusing completely on the speaker. This means maintaining eye contact, using non-verbal signals such as nodding and minimizing distractions.
2. Paraphrase: Repeat what the other person has said in your own words to make sure you have understood correctly. This also shows the other person that you are paying attention.
3. Ask follow-up questions: Ask open questions to obtain more information and clarify any ambiguities.
4. Show empathy: Try to put yourself in the other person's shoes and understand their feelings and perspectives.
5. Summarize: At the end of the conversation, give a brief summary to make sure all points are clear.

Positive influence on professional conversations: Active listening can work wonders in many professional contexts: 

When team members actively listen in larger meetings, misunderstandings are reduced and collaboration becomes more efficient. Customers also feel valued and understood, which leads to higher customer satisfaction and loyalty. Managers who actively listen build trust and promote an open and positive working environment.  The benefits of active listening are undeniable. 

Whether you're a new hire or a long-time leader, active listening is an essential technique for communicating effectively and working in a solution-oriented manner in the workplace. This skill not only helps to avoid misunderstandings, but also promotes a positive working environment and strengthens interpersonal relationships. Why not practice active listening for a while and observe for yourself how your conversations and therefore your professional successes improve. 

Sources:

- Covey, S. R. (1989). *The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People*. Free Press. 

- Brownell, J. (2012). *Listening: Attitudes, Principles, and Skills*. Pearson. 

- Goleman, D. (1995). *Emotional Intelligence: Why It Can Matter More Than IQ*. Bantam Books.