Active listening as a necessary element for dialogue

Abstract

Communication is an art that allows us to gather information, understand ideas, thoughts, and expressions through speech. Therefore, it is essential to know precisely the characteristics of each of the communicative skills and components in order to generate cognitive and expressive advancements that contribute to interpersonal relationships. It is rare to find good listeners, as very few people understand the importance of active listening. Currently, not knowing how to listen presents problems when negotiating, delegating, or working in teams. For this reason, educational institutions strive daily to train and empower society by including subjects in curricula that strengthen communication skills, with the goal of preparing people to face the working world with a constructive and critical mindset. Undoubtedly, people today place more importance on technology than on knowledge, on being than on knowing, on hearing than on listening. So, why should we learn to listen actively? Active listening offers advantages because you gradually learn new listening techniques such as: paying attention using eye contact, body language, and eliminating the temptation to respond automatically; the goal is not simply to hear the message but to fully understand it, including emotions.