So how do you guide someone to be more vulnerable and open? The first step is to be open yourself. “Reframe things from the beginning,” Stacy explains. “Instead of a ‘you’ perspective, go to an ‘I’ perspective.” Being a good listener is key – as is recognizing that opening up is difficult, and downright scary, for many people. “Turn off your devices, adjust your body language, and let them know that they have your full and undivided attention,” Stacy continues. “Then, when they share, thank them." At the end of the day, the most important thing is making everyone feel comfortable.
Student and professional social workers in Amsterdam. That’s when honest, productive, and respectful conversations can happen.
Accept responsibility for your own vulnerability, and put yourself forward. Take ownership if things you say are unclear.
2. Stay silent sometimes. We are not usually comfortable listening silently, but sometimes it serves a better purpose when we do. It’s okay to not have advice. Accept the idea that sometimes your role as a listener can go much further than having a response.
3. Reduce feelings of guilt or shame in the other person. Eliminate terms like “at least” from your vocabulary. Validate the other person’s contribution to the conversation by recognizing that what he or she says is important to them.
4. Thank people for sharing. Opening up is hard, so be genuine in recognizing people who do.
5. But mostly, be a good listener. Turn off devices, adjust your body language, and let the other person know that they have your full and undivided attention.
13 F AL L 2016
1. Reframe things from a “you” perspective to an “I” perspective.
T H E AN C H OR
5 Tips for Creating a Supportive Environment