complain among themselves, but the teacher might never find out what they really think.]]> weakness.]]> appropriate steps for good active listening.]]> interrupt the speaker, but you can offer subtle acknowledgments that signal comprehension, such as nodding or quietly saying I see or Go on.]]> obstacles to understanding, such as heated emotions or distracted half-listening.]]> contract negotiations, but it is usually best for the people involved to talk to each other directly whenever possible.]]> willingness to listen.]]> communication technique that seeks to increase understanding between a speaker and a listener.]]> assert your own ideas in favor of clearly understanding what another person is saying, knowing that you will be given the same consideration when it is your turn to speak.]]> improve relationships, whether at home, school, or work.]]> interpreting their clients' needs second hand.]]> cooperate with one another.]]> lawsuits or contract negotiations, but it is usually best for the people involved to talk to each other directly whenever possible.]]> opportunity to explain clearly how you feel about your co-worker's behavior, while he or she has a chance to explain and maybe even apologize.]]> express greater empathy toward others, since it requires setting aside your own needs for the purpose of understanding someone else's.]]>