What is proactive listening?

Proactive listening involves more than just active listening; it requires actively searching for specific aspects in the conversation, such as negatives and fear of loss. It is a deliberate strategy to understand and empathize with the other person, which not only aids in building a connection but also serves as a practical approach to problem-solving. Proactive listening is characterized by its goal-oriented nature, where the listener uses empathy and targeted responses to uncover deeper issues or concerns, allowing for more efficient and effective communication 1 .