Attending involves giving undivided attention to others during communication, ensuring they feel heard, valued, and respected.
This skill requires active engagement, including maintaining eye contact, minimizing distractions, and responding appropriately.
Leaders who practice attending enhance team dynamics, build trust, and create a culture of effective communication.
Practical Exercise: The “Full Presence 5” Method
In your next conversation, practice full engagement by following these five steps:
- Eliminate Distractions – Put away your phone, close your laptop, and focus solely on the speaker.
- Make Eye Contact – Maintain a natural and steady gaze to show attentiveness.
- Use Open Body Language – Face the speaker, nod occasionally, and avoid crossing arms.
- Reflect & Acknowledge – Summarize or paraphrase what they say (“It sounds like you’re saying…”).
- Ask a Follow-Up Question – Show interest by asking for clarification or elaboration.
Action Step: Use the Full Presence 5 method in your next conversation to practice deep listening and make others feel truly heard.