In the context of interviews, what does active listening involve?

Active listening in the context of interviews involves fully concentrating on what is being said. This skill is crucial for effective communication and understanding during an interview. When an interviewer actively listens, they give their undivided attention to the speaker, which not only helps in comprehending the message being conveyed but also fosters a sense of trust and rapport between the interviewer and the interviewee.

Active listening includes non-verbal cues like nodding or maintaining eye contact, as well as verbal affirmations that indicate understanding and encourage the interviewee to continue sharing. This approach allows the interviewer to pick up on nuances, emotions, and details that may be significant for the conversation or investigation.

The other options illustrate behaviors that are not conducive to effective interviewing. Ignoring the interviewee undermines the purpose of the interaction, while interrupting them repeatedly disrupts the flow of conversation and could hinder the gathering of important information. Summarizing the interviewer's own thoughts distracts from the interviewee's narrative and can lead to miscommunication. Thus, the emphasis on concentrating fully on what is being said is what defines active listening and enhances the quality of the interview process.