This course explores the importance and impact of listening to understand, rather than listening simply to respond. Active listening is a fundamental coaching and communication skill that helps you gain a deeper understanding of others' views, perspectives, and needs. By developing your ability to listen effectively, you will build stronger relationships, increase trust, and create more meaningful and productive conversations.  

This course is ideal for those who manage people or who supervise others, as well as for those who want to improve their communication skills in general. 

This workshop relates to the: “Communication” and “Leading others: Promotes wellbeing and inclusion” competencies outlined in the Competency Framework.  

Learning outcomes:  

• Recognise the value of listening to understand rather than respond. 

• Describe the different levels of listening. 

• Apply silence as a powerful coaching and communication tool. 

• Focus fully on others to gain a deeper understanding of their perspectives and needs. 

Please be aware that this workshop is a discussion-based session with pair and group exercises. You do not have to share anything you are not comfortable with but bear in mind you will be asked to reflect on your own experiences.  

After attending this course, the recommended progression would be to attend “Introduction to coaching” or “Coaching skills for line managers”.  


Additional resources for after the session are available here: Module: Leadership of self: Communication | moodle.Nottingham