Proving Ground Overview:

The purpose of this assessment is to give you an opportunity to demonstrate your active listening skills, which include the ability to “hear“ what is being communicated both verbally and nonverbally and to reflect your understanding back to the speaker without offering advice or imposing judgment.

Proving Ground Directions:

For this assessment, you will need to enlist the help of a friend or classmate, who will play the role of someone describing a difficult client, personal or work situation. Prior to the assessment, review and practice the steps of active listening: paraphrasing; asking questions; expressing empathy; using engaged body language; avoiding judgment; and avoiding giving advice. When you are ready, record the interaction, which should be limited to 3 minutes.