Active listening is a hallmark of impactful leadership and social fluency. It involves more than simply hearing words; it’s about understanding the message, reading between the lines, and responding thoughtfully. Active listeners maintain eye contact, nod to show understanding, and refrain from interrupting. They ask clarifying questions and paraphrase what they’ve heard to ensure comprehension. Effective responses are timely, relevant, and considerate, showing the speaker their input is valued. In meetings, this might mean referencing someone’s earlier comment or building on team ideas. Active listening builds trust, reduces misunderstandings, and helps create an inclusive, productive environment.