Listening to Flourish: Harnessing High-Quality Listening to Build Thriving Organisations

Good listening isn’t just passive attention; it is an active tool that shapes how people think, feel, and connect. Professor Guy Itzchakov’s research shows that high-quality listening, marked by focused attention, accurate understanding, and a non-judgmental intent, facilitates profound introspection, self-disclosure, and social connection.

Author/Source: Guy Itzchakov, Associate Professor, University of Haifa for the Michigan Ross Center for Positive Organizations

Last updated: 18/11/2025

When employees feel truly heard, they report higher job satisfaction and performance, stronger commitment, and lower burnout and turnover intentions. Experiments also show that being genuinely listened to reduces social defensiveness, promotes self-reflection, and can depolarize attitudes and disagreements.

In this Positive Links session, Prof. Itzchakov will share his cutting-edge research and unpack what makes listening “high quality” and why it matters for leaders, employees, and practitioners. Drawing on studies from his lab and work with organizations worldwide, he will explain the components of good listening and demonstrate concrete behaviors that make people feel understood.

Join us to learn how high-quality listening builds trust, liking, and relationship satisfaction; how it can bridge ideological divides and spark innovation by reducing defensiveness; and how to cultivate a listening culture through training and practice.

By the end of the session, you will have research-based tools to foster positive relationships and build organizations where people can thrive.

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