Active Listening as a Coach
"One of the most sincere forms of respect is actually listening to what another has to say." -Bryant H. McGill
Hi Friend!
Many prevailing benefits of coaching are achieved through ongoing trust and meaningful conversations shared between the coach and client—and the foundations of great conversation are built upon the coach’s listening skills.
Listening is about more than just hearing and receiving information though; it involves processing, reflecting, understanding, and remembering the information, too. When you get it right, you ensure that your client feels more accepted, open, and engaged throughout your coaching relationship.
When I am actively listening, I am using your full awareness to create space for compassion and understanding that translates into deeper connections. This intentional, present form of listening attempts to demonstrate unconditional acceptance and unbiased reflection.
As a coach I practice these key characteristics of active listening, which include:
Focused attention: Paying close attention to both the speaker's words and their non-verbal cues, such as body language and tone of voice.
Empathy: Understanding and sharing the speaker's feelings and perspective.
Effective comprehension: Ensuring you fully understand the speaker's message, asking clarifying questions if needed.
Active participation: Providing verbal and non-verbal cues, such as nodding or making eye contact, to show you're engaged.
Paraphrasing: Restating the speaker's main points in your own words to confirm understanding.
Avoiding interruptions: Allowing the speaker to finish their thoughts without interruption.
The Benefits of Active Listening
Deeper Client Engagement: Clients feel heard, validated, and understood, leading to increased trust and engagement.
Improved Communication: Active listening helps me clarify client needs, reduce misunderstandings, and facilitate more effective problem-solving.
Enhanced Coaching Effectiveness: By fully understanding the client’s perspective, I can tailor guidance and support more effectively, leading to greater client satisfaction and outcomes.
Increased Empathy and Compassion: Active listening cultivates empathy and compassion, allowing me to respond with sensitivity and understanding.
By practicing active listening, I can build stronger relationships, improve communication, and better understand the perspectives of others.
XO Jenna
