How can you assess communication and interpersonal skills with active listening?

1 What is active listening?

Active listening is more than just hearing what the other person is saying. It is a skill that requires you to focus on the speaker's words, tone, body language, and emotions, and to provide feedback that shows you are listening and interested. Active listening can help you avoid misunderstandings, resolve conflicts, and build trust and respect. Active listening also involves asking open-ended questions, paraphrasing, summarizing, and reflecting on what the speaker is saying, to check your comprehension and show your involvement.

2 Why is active listening important for interviewing?

Interviewing is a two-way communication process that allows you and the interviewer to exchange information and assess each other's fit for the role. Active listening can help you make a good impression, as it shows that you are attentive, curious, and respectful of the interviewer's perspective. Active listening can also help you understand the interviewer's needs, goals, and challenges, and tailor your answers accordingly. Active listening can also help you cope with difficult or unexpected questions, as it gives you time to think and respond calmly and confidently.

3 How can you practice active listening before an interview?

Active listening is a skill that can be improved with practice and feedback. Before an interview, you can ask a friend, mentor, or coach for constructive criticism and suggestions. You can also record yourself answering common interview questions and review your performance. When practicing active listening, make sure to maintain eye contact and nod appropriately; use verbal and non-verbal cues to show interest and encouragement; avoid distractions and interruptions; ask relevant and insightful questions; paraphrase, summarize, and reflect on the speaker's main points; express empathy and understanding when appropriate; and avoid judgment, criticism, or advice unless asked for.

4 How can you use active listening during an interview?

During an interview, active listening can be used to demonstrate your communication and interpersonal skills, as well as enhance your answers. To do this, you should listen carefully to the interviewer's questions and instructions, and take a moment to organize your thoughts before responding. Additionally, it is important to answer the question directly and concisely, with evidence to support your claims. Furthermore, make sure to relate your answer to the interviewer's needs, goals, and challenges, while also showing how you can add value to the organization. Additionally, use positive and professional language with no filler words, slang or jargon. Express enthusiasm and passion for the role and organization while expressing gratitude for the opportunity. Finally, ask thoughtful and relevant questions at the end of the interview to show interest and curiosity.

5 How can you evaluate your communication and interpersonal skills after an interview?

After an interview, you can evaluate your communication and interpersonal skills with active listening in order to identify your strengths and areas for improvement. You can request feedback from the interviewer, if possible, or review your notes and recording of the interview. Additionally, you can ask for feedback from a friend, mentor, or coach who can provide an objective and honest opinion. When evaluating your communication and interpersonal skills with active listening, ask yourself questions such as: did you answer the questions clearly and confidently? Did you show interest and involvement in the conversation? Did you avoid misunderstandings and miscommunications? Did you build rapport and trust with the interviewer? Did you show empathy and respect for the interviewer's perspective? Did you demonstrate your knowledge and skills for the role and the organization? Did you ask meaningful and relevant questions at the end of the interview? Active listening is essential for demonstrating these skills in an interview, as it can improve your chances of landing your dream job and advancing your professional development.

6 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?