Active Listening

Active listening is a skill that takes both concentration and energy. A consultant who actively listens to a writer will make statements such as "What I'm hearing you say is..." or "It sounds like..." as the writer is discussing their narrative. These statements help to grant validitiy to the writers concerns and demonstrate that the consultant is paying close attention to what the writer is saying. More specific tactics to help convey active listening include:

• paraphrasing - repeat back to the writer a summary of what have told you. This serves two important purposes. In addition to showing the writer that you have been paying attention to them, it is a way to ensure you have perceived their concerns correctly and helps to avoid misunderstandings.
• ask questions - ask the writer questions as a means of inviting them to elaborate on their thoughts and ideas.
• I statements - Making use of "I statements" places the burden of understanding on you, the consultant, rather than on the writer. Telling a writer that "You're not explaining things very clearly" will likely cause them to become defensive. Instead, say "I'm a little confused. Would you be able to clarify this for me?"
• body language - During a conference, consultants should lean foreward with both feet on the floor and maintain good eye contact with the with the writer at all times. This will help to further convey friendlliness and interest.
  

This section regarding active listening was complied from Chapter 3 of "The Bedford Guide for Writing Tutors."

 

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