Coaching reflections: Importance of listening

As our model of support is informed by a coaching approach, we understand the importance of listening to our Charity Partners. This enables them to feel fully heard and for us to fully hear so we can go on and support them in the most meaningful way.

Listening plays a pivotal role in establishing a trusting and supportive relationship. While engaging with our Charity Partners - from onboarding, through to every stage of our partnership - we strive to be good listeners, which we believe is also a reflection of one of our core values - respect.⁠
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As we deploy coaching-informed approaches in our work, we want to share how listening can take several forms depending on where the emphasis is on the part of the listener.⁠

Ways of listening

Autobiographical listening: when the listener relates the information being shared to their own experiences, drawing connections and finding similarities with their personal life.⁠
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Collaborative listening: when the listener actively engages with the speaker to co-create meaning, contributes to the conversation, ask questions, and participate in shaping the narrative.⁠
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Global listening: when the listener focuses on understanding the broader context and implications of the narrative. It involves grasping the larger themes, emotions, and messages conveyed by the speaker.⁠

Employing a global listening approach with our partners allows us to not only comprehend the explicit content of clients' words and body cues, but also provides insights into their emotions, underlying beliefs and unspoken needs. Providing a safe, supportive space for charity leaders helps them to explore their thoughts, navigate challenges, and set meaningful goals.