In linguistics, how can you show that you are an active listener?

1 Use verbal and non-verbal feedback

One way to show that you are an active listener is to use verbal and non-verbal feedback to signal your interest, comprehension, and empathy. Verbal feedback includes words and phrases that acknowledge, clarify, or summarize what the speaker has said, such as "I see", "Could you repeat that?", or "So, you mean that...". Non-verbal feedback includes gestures, facial expressions, and eye contact that convey your attention, emotion, and attitude, such as nodding, smiling, or leaning forward.

2 Ask relevant and open-ended questions

Another way to show that you are an active listener is to ask relevant and open-ended questions that invite the speaker to elaborate, explain, or justify their points. Relevant questions show that you have followed the main ideas and details of the speaker's message, and that you are interested in learning more. Open-ended questions encourage the speaker to provide more information, examples, or opinions, rather than just yes or no answers. For example, you could ask "How did you come up with that hypothesis?" or "What are the implications of your findings?".

4 Avoid interruptions and distractions

A fourth way to show that you are an active listener is to avoid interruptions and distractions that might disrupt the flow of communication or create misunderstandings. Interruptions include comments, questions, or objections that cut off the speaker before they finish their thought, such as "But what about...". Distractions include noises, devices, or activities that divert your attention from the speaker, such as checking your phone, typing on your laptop, or looking around. To avoid interruptions and distractions, you should wait for the speaker to pause or signal that they are ready for feedback, and focus on the speaker's voice, body language, and content.

5 Adapt to the speaker's style and context

A fifth way to show that you are an active listener is to adapt to the speaker's style and context, which are influenced by their linguistic background, culture, and purpose. Style refers to the choices that the speaker makes in terms of vocabulary, grammar, tone, and register, which may vary depending on the audience, situation, and topic. Context refers to the physical, social, and cultural factors that affect the meaning and interpretation of the speaker's message, such as the location, time, relationship, and norms. To adapt to the speaker's style and context, you should pay attention to the cues and clues that indicate the speaker's intention, expectation, and attitude, and adjust your feedback and questions accordingly.