Listening to others without judging them, with full attention and an excellent willingness to lend an ear to that individual who needs to feel heard and understood mark the foundations of empathic listening.
Empathic listening is a concept that refers to the act of listening attentively, and as far as possible without interruptions, to a neighbor with the intention of dedicating quality time to them and understanding them without prejudice.
Whoever exercises and applies this type of action demonstrates respect for the other and, in that context, is limited to accompanying and processing the message received, considering both the voice and tone of the sender as well as his or her gestures. Thus, it is possible to complement the content with signals linked to reactions and body posture, for example.
Demonstrating empathy from the role of listener is one of the most basic social skills . It is always valuable to express it, but by combining it with active listening one manages to evolve and improve internally as a human being.
Principles of empathic listening
To implement empathic listening, you must know what its principles are and demonstrate values and resources associated with kindness , tolerance , concentration and respect .
First of all, you have to start a conversation or be part of it, committing to providing full attention , inspiring trust and acting from authenticity .
To carry out empathetic listening , it is equally enriching to know how to differentiate this modality from other types of listening , since from understanding there is a variety of active listening that is called reflective listening and is extremely useful as a communication strategy .
It is also essential to have good management of one's emotions , not overlook the importance of emotional validation , offer constructive feedback , always establish eye contact and know how to decode non-verbal communication in the most objective way possible, without assumptions or value judgments that lead to confusion, mistakes or misunderstandings.
Empathic listening can be cultivated and deepened by attending workshops and courses or reading books and online publications on the subject.
Empathy, respect, interest, assertiveness and compassion can also be reflected in the virtual environment, where it is possible to implement, for example, empathetic listening in communications through social networks.
Strategies and techniques for its application
To apply empathic listening in multiple areas, it is advantageous to use different strategies and techniques that invite us to become increasingly better listeners. It all adds up to recognizing limitations and looking for how to overcome obstacles or overcome the challenges that appear as someone adopts this methodology.
Self-reflection , effective communication techniques and even mindfulness are great allies for those who want to provide someone with emotional support , want to collaborate in conflict resolution or have a job or position that requires using the benefits of empathic listening .
It is also possible to take advantage of the Internet to learn virtually about tips and practices that promote the development of empathic skills or access training guidelines for empathic listening .
As it arises from day to day, the field of application of empathic listening is extensive and diverse, through which one learns to put aside the ego, accept other views or opinions and strengthen ties with others.
On a family and/or personal level, this type of listening is essential. To give an example that many people can understand and recognize: allocating time, enthusiasm, attention , interest and understanding to children, listening to them empathetically and respectfully, creating a safe environment or space for them and transmitting unconditional acceptance enhances their self-esteem . It generates security and leads them to verify the love and trust that is given to them in their home.
In terms of work, it is (or should be) a key requirement to exercise empathetic listening if you want to work in the customer service area of a company; if you are a professional in the field of medicine (especially within the mental health sector) or if you intend to occupy a position linked to education .
Listening without prejudice, emotional validation, sensitivity, respect and emotional warmth are elements that enrich and strengthen all human relationships.
Examples of empathic listening
Fortunately, examples of empathetic listening abound and it is always worth learning about it to know what it consists of and to be able to put it into practice in each situation that requires it.
Broadly speaking, beyond being able to describe hypothetical cases that serve as reference or guidance , it is necessary to mention that whoever listens to another demonstrating empathy has the intention of understanding him and, by listening to him and perhaps giving him a constructive feedback, make him feel visible and important. .
The staff of a company that is responsible for receiving and managing claims, complaints or queries from users, in particular, must stand out for their tolerance , their verbal communication skills , their patience , their predisposition towards teamwork and aptitude for management. of complicated situations. Fundamentally, you must demonstrate flexibility , empathy , respect , an inclination for dialogue and a willingness to actively listen .
A teacher who listens attentively to a student and, with understanding and an empathetic spirit, encourages, accompanies and supports him, reveals a vocation that goes beyond his job function at the head of a course. If this educator applies empathetic listening , he will surely be able to put himself in the student's place and understand his emotions , feelings and realities, thus giving rise to a human connection that is as important, transformative and beneficial as the dynamics of transmission and acquisition of knowledge .