When we talk of active listening, it simply involves paying attention to the conversation without interruption, and taking time to understand what the speaker is discussing.

Active listeners avoid interrupting at all costs, summarise and repeat back what they have heard, observe body language to get an extra level of understanding.

It has been established that active listening is a helpful skill for any worker to develop, as it helps one truly understand what people are saying in conversations and meetings (and not just what you want to hear, or think you hear)  but to understand the whole conversation.

For job interviews, active listening is also a useful tool as it’s believed to help one build a positive understanding with their interviewer.

Understanding active listening skills

Just like critical thinking and problem solving, Francis Mwangi, a human resource manager at Mount Kenya University says active listening is a soft skill that is most of the time held in high regard by employers.

He explains that for instance, when interviewing for jobs, using active listening techniques can help show the interviewer how your interpersonal skills can draw people out.

The lecturer points out that, active listening redirects your focus from what is going on inside of your head to the needs of your prospective employer or interviewer. This technique, he says can help reduce one’s nervousness during an interview.

"While in an interview, by placing your focus through active listening, you prove that one is interested in the organisation’s structure and they are ready to help them solve work issues,” he says.

Examples of active listening techniques include demonstrating concern, asking open-ended questions, waiting to disclose your opinion among others.

Why it’s important

From professional settings to personal relationships, Diana Nawatti, a counsellor and head teacher says communication requires active listening.

According to her, active listening helps in recognising other’s perspectives and feelings and helps appreciate them. This not only helps in resolving conflicts but also helps foster a culture of respect. And for this reason, it’s essential to try to understand others’ perspectives before responding.

"When it comes to your success in education and the workplace, it will require active listening. This is because it takes attention to both the big picture and small details to learn. When you actively listen, your employer can see the difference in your responses and work that follows,” she says.

She further notes that the first place in one’s career where active listening plays a large role is in the interview process. By paying close attention and making eye contact with the interviewer, you can demonstrate that you are interested in the position, can help with problem solving and can work well in a team.

It’s important to keep in mind that it’s not ideal to only focus on speaking and sharing your own experiences and forget listening to others, this is a skill that requires practice and constant attention.

Staying active in communication

The only way to stay active in any communication is to practice active listening, it shows empathy and compassion. Active listening is really important when dealing with hardships, problems, and sadness. When someone is facing a hard time; they need to know that the person they are sharing their vulnerability with is actually listening to them and understanding their needs.

Studies have established that active listening is very important in the workplace and within educational settings, especially when it comes to problem-solving.

To be able to properly problem-solve and achieve outcomes that all parties feel satisfied with, you need to actively listen. That way, you can address all needs to find the optimal solution.

The importance of listening does not go unnoticed in any part of your life. It’s something you begin practicing as a child and do throughout your life in every type of relationship you build.

Good communication skills are all about honing your speaking skills, writing, and listening skills.