How can you overcome power dynamics when practicing active listening?

1 Acknowledge the power dynamics

The first step is to acknowledge the existence and impact of power dynamics on the communication process. Power dynamics can be based on factors such as position, authority, expertise, status, or resources. They can affect how people perceive, interpret, and respond to each other's messages. By acknowledging the power dynamics, you can show that you are aware of the potential challenges and biases, and that you are willing to address them openly and honestly.

2 Adjust your mindset and attitude

The second step is to adjust your mindset and attitude towards the other person and the conflict situation. Active listening requires a positive and constructive attitude, which means that you are interested in understanding the other person's perspective, needs, and emotions, and that you are open to finding a mutually beneficial solution. To achieve this attitude, you need to avoid judging, blaming, or dismissing the other person, and instead focus on the common goals, interests, and values that you share.

3 Use appropriate verbal and non-verbal cues

The third step is to use appropriate verbal and non-verbal cues to demonstrate your active listening. Verbal cues include asking open-ended questions, paraphrasing, summarizing, reflecting, and giving feedback. These cues help you to clarify, confirm, and validate the other person's message, and to show that you are attentive and engaged. Non-verbal cues include eye contact, facial expressions, body posture, gestures, and tone of voice. These cues help you to convey your respect, empathy, and sincerity, and to avoid sending mixed or contradictory signals.

4 Manage your emotions and reactions

The fourth step is to manage your emotions and reactions when practicing active listening. Power dynamics can trigger strong emotions, such as anger, frustration, fear, or anxiety, which can interfere with your ability to listen effectively. To manage your emotions, you need to be aware of them, acknowledge them, and regulate them. You can use techniques such as breathing, self-talk, or reframing to calm yourself and maintain your composure. You also need to manage your reactions, such as interruptions, arguments, or criticisms, which can disrupt the communication flow and damage the relationship.

5 Seek feedback and follow up

The fifth step is to seek feedback and follow up on your active listening. Feedback is essential to ensure that you have understood the other person's message correctly, and that you have addressed their concerns and expectations. You can ask for feedback by checking for understanding, asking for clarification, or inviting comments or suggestions. You can also give feedback by expressing your appreciation, appreciation, or agreement. Follow up is important to show that you are committed to resolving the conflict and maintaining the relationship. You can follow up by taking action, providing updates, or offering support.

6 Practice and improve

The sixth step is to practice and improve your active listening skills. Active listening is not a one-time event, but a continuous process that requires practice and improvement. You can practice your active listening skills by applying them in different situations and contexts, and by seeking feedback from others. You can also improve your active listening skills by learning from your experiences, reflecting on your strengths and weaknesses, and setting goals for improvement.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?