The Importance of Active Listening

Active listening is a model for respect and understanding and is a way to gain information and perspective. Access The Importance of Active Listening document .

Developing Empathy for Building Relationships and Helping Others

Empathy is a Powerful Resource for Building Relationships and Helping Others Many people hear of a friend’s trouble and wish to “fix the problem”. We are uncomfortable with their pain and struggle because it reminds us of our own. We find it difficult to “just” listen, understand and acknowledge the difficult feelings, but often that […]

Best Practices

Here are some best practices regarding various aspects of your work in AFS.

Communication Processing Information from Varying Perspectives

“Processes information from varying perspectives” consists of 3 behaviors: identifies the core elements of an issue; considers the pros and cons, as well as the short and long-term consequences of decisions; arrives at logical, clear conclusions Staff will have greater confidence in a supervisor who demonstrates their ability to process information from varying perspectives. For […]

Communication – 5 Behaviors of Listening

“Listens to the ideas and concerns of others” is composed of 5 behaviors: seeks ideas, suggestions, and opinions from others; creates a comfortable climate for airing concerns; listens to ALL points of view with an open mind; listens carefully without interrupting; summarizes input, then checks for understanding Effective listening occurs when you seek to understand […]