Communication Strategies & Active Listening Flashcards

A mentor notices their mentee seems distracted during a session. Which active listening technique is most appropriate to re-engage them?

Answer: Ask an open-ended question about what's on their mind

Open-ended questions invite the mentee to share what's distracting them, re-establishing connection and presence.

Which of the following BEST describes 'reflective listening' in a mentoring context?

Answer: Paraphrasing the mentee's message to confirm understanding

Reflective listening involves paraphrasing or summarizing what was said to demonstrate comprehension and validate the speaker.

When a mentee uses vague language like 'things aren't going well,' a mentor practicing active listening should:

Answer: Ask a clarifying question to understand the specific concern

Clarifying questions help unpack ambiguous statements and show the mentor is genuinely engaged.

In cross-cultural mentoring, effective communication requires a mentor to:

Answer: Be aware of cultural differences in directness and nonverbal cues

Cultural competence includes recognizing that communication norms vary and adapting accordingly.

A mentee shares a concern and the mentor immediately responds with a solution. What critical step did the mentor skip?

Answer: Acknowledging the mentee's feelings before problem-solving

Jumping to solutions without emotional acknowledgment can make the mentee feel unheard and dismissed.

Which communication behavior indicates a mentor is NOT actively listening?

Answer: Formulating a response while the mentee is still speaking

Mentally preparing a response while someone is talking diverts attention from truly hearing their message.

What is the purpose of using silence strategically during a mentoring conversation?

Answer: To give the mentee space to reflect and continue sharing

Strategic silence creates psychological space that encourages deeper reflection and continued disclosure from the mentee.