After reading last week’s blog about one of my favorite facilitation skills exercises, a number of readers asked, “Could you share the list of listening behaviors?” As requested, the list is below. Let me know how you do.

Listening Skills Checklist

Place a check mark beside the habits you regularly practice. Reflect honestly, your ability to listen with precision directly impacts scientificcollaboration and decision-making. If you are feeling brave and vulnerable, have a colleague do this for you.

I am working on this one: “I resist the urge to prepare my response while others are still speaking.” It’s a challenge!

Digital Focus and Presence

I turn off email, chat, and app notifications during meetings to maintain cognitive focus.

I close or minimize unrelated windows and avoid multitasking while others are speaking.

I position my camera and screen to maintain virtual eye contact with the speaker(s).

I keep my camera on when possible, to show presence and respect for others’ contributions.

I use active posture, nodding, or nonverbal reactions to demonstrate engagement.

I mute myself when not speaking to reduce background noise and signal attentiveness.

Cognitive Engagement and Emotional Awareness

I concentrate on understanding the intent behind what is being said, not just the words.

I mentally paraphrase and summarize as I listen, then confirm aloud when needed.

I validate the speaker before responding, especially when disagreement is likely.

I pay attention to vocal tone, pacing, and hesitations for clues about unspoken concerns.

I allow the speaker to complete their full thought without interrupting or redirecting.

I resist the urge to prepare my response while others are still speaking.

Clarity, Curiosity, and Collaborative Inquiry

I ask clarifying questions when a point is ambiguous, rather than making assumptions.

I listen for what is missing or unsaid, especially around risk, uncertainty, or disagreement.

I offer “bridge” questions (e.g., “Can you walk us through your assumptions?”) to deepen shared understanding.

I invite quieter voices into the discussion when they’ve been overlooked or interrupted. I notice marginalized groups and make sure they are being heard.

I listen across disciplines and adjust my assumptions when unfamiliar terminology is used.

I mentally track group sentiment and alignment, not just content, throughout the meeting.

I turn off alerts during meetings.

Ask yourself: “What’s one habit above that I would like to strengthen in my next meeting?”