Reflective Statements

Definition

Reflective statements are verbal responses made by an interviewer that paraphrase or summarize what the interviewee has said, helping to clarify and deepen the conversation. These statements encourage interviewees to explore their thoughts and feelings more thoroughly, fostering a more engaging and in-depth dialogue.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Reflective statements can help interviewees feel heard and validated, which can lead to more honest and open responses.
2. These statements often use phrases like 'It sounds like you are saying...' or 'What I hear you saying is...', encouraging elaboration from the interviewee.
3. They can be especially effective in sensitive interviews where emotions are involved, as they show understanding and support.
4. Using reflective statements strategically can guide the conversation towards important themes or topics that may need further exploration.
5. Practicing reflective statements can enhance an interviewer's skills in active listening and empathy, improving overall communication.

Review Questions

• How do reflective statements enhance the quality of responses from interviewees?
  • Reflective statements enhance the quality of responses by making interviewees feel understood and valued. When interviewers paraphrase or summarize what has been said, it encourages the interviewee to delve deeper into their thoughts and feelings. This not only clarifies any misunderstandings but also fosters a safe space for open dialogue, leading to richer and more meaningful answers.
• Discuss how using reflective statements can improve an interviewer's relationship with an interviewee.
  • Using reflective statements can significantly improve an interviewer's relationship with an interviewee by building trust and rapport. When interviewers actively listen and respond reflectively, it shows that they are genuinely interested in what the interviewee has to say. This kind of interaction creates a collaborative environment where the interviewee feels comfortable sharing personal insights or experiences, enhancing the overall quality of the interaction.
• Evaluate the impact of reflective statements on achieving in-depth understanding during interviews.
  • Reflective statements play a crucial role in achieving in-depth understanding during interviews by prompting deeper exploration of topics. They invite interviewees to elaborate on their thoughts and feelings, which can unveil underlying issues or themes that might not have been addressed otherwise. This approach not only enriches the data collected but also allows for a more nuanced analysis of the subject matter, ultimately leading to a more comprehensive understanding of the interviewee's perspective.

Related terms

Active Listening: The process of fully concentrating, understanding, responding, and remembering what the speaker is saying, ensuring that the interviewer is genuinely engaged in the conversation.

Clarifying Questions: Questions posed by the interviewer to ensure understanding of the interviewee's message and to elicit further details or explanations.

Empathy: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another, which helps in building rapport and trust between the interviewer and interviewee.