Copyright © 2006-2007 The Beyond Intractability Project Beyond Intractability is a Registered Trademark of the Universit

1. Copyright © 2006-2007 The Beyond Intractability ProjectBeyond Intractability is a Registered Trademark of the University of Colorado PowerPoint Summary of: Empathetic Listening

2. Slide 2: • Empathetic Listening… • is a way of listening and responding to • another person that improves mutual • understanding and trust. • Benefits of Empathetic Listening: • Builds trust and respect • Allows for emotional release • Reduces tensions • Uncovers “hidden” information • Creates a safe environment • Helps clarify parties’ thoughts • Aids understanding of context PowerPoint Summary of: Empathetic Listening

3. Slide 3: • How to Listen Empathetically • Actively attempt to understand the Other’s point of view • Take in information without passing judgment • Acknowledge the speaker • Model empathetic practices • Create a trusting environment • Allow the expression of emotion and sharing of problems PowerPoint Summary of: Empathetic Listening

4. Slide 4: • Specific things to DO: • Be attentive • Be interested • Be alert • Create a positive atmosphere • Allow the Other to bounce ideas off of you • Indicate you are listening • Reflect your understanding back to the speaker PowerPoint Summary of: Empathetic Listening

5. Slide 5: • Specific things to Avoid • DON’T: • Change the subject • Discount the speakers’ feelings • Let the speaker “hook” you into an emotional exchange • Interrupt • Give advice • Interrogate PowerPoint Summary of: Empathetic Listening