Asking for a Reflection
Ensuring understanding through reflection
Asking for a Reflection is a framework for ensuring that others understand our message and intentions. It involves asking others to reflect back what they have heard, and using this feedback to clarify and adjust our communication.
- Ask others to reflect back what they have heard
- Use feedback to clarify and adjust communication
- Be open to feedback and clarification
- Ask for a reflectionAsk others to reflect back what they have heard, using a question like 'Could you tell me what you just heard me say?'Pro tipUse a non-judgmental tone and language to encourage honest feedbackWarningAvoid becoming defensive or dismissive if others don't immediately understand or agree with your message
- Use feedback to clarify and adjustUse the feedback from others to clarify and adjust your communication, ensuring that your message is understood as intended.Pro tipBe open to feedback and willing to make adjustments as neededWarningAvoid ignoring or dismissing feedback that suggests a misunderstanding
Asking for a reflection in a meeting
A person asks a colleague to reflect back what they have heard, to ensure that their message is understood as intended.
OutcomeThe colleague provides feedback that helps to clarify the message and ensure understanding.
Not asking for a reflection
Failing to ask for a reflection can lead to misunderstandings and miscommunication.
Becoming defensive or dismissive
Becoming defensive or dismissive in response to feedback can lead to further misunderstandings and conflict.
The concept of Asking for a Reflection was developed by Marshall Rosenberg as part of his Nonviolent Communication approach. It is based on the idea that clear understanding is essential for effective communication, and that asking for reflection can help to ensure this understanding.
Source · BOOK
Nonviolent Communication: A Language of Life