Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Business Management Practice Test

A good active listener should wait until a speaker has completely finished speaking before asking questions.

1. True

2. False

3. Depends on the context

4. Only if they are confident

The correct answer is: False

The practice of active listening emphasizes the importance of fully understanding the speaker's message before interjecting with questions. Waiting until the speaker has finished ensures that you have a complete picture of what is being communicated, allowing for more relevant and thoughtful questions when the opportunity arises. This approach shows respect for the speaker and promotes clearer communication, as it minimizes the risk of interrupting or misunderstanding their points. Asking questions while the speaker is still speaking can lead to confusion, as it may disrupt the flow of their thoughts and prevent them from expressing their complete ideas. It can also signal to the speaker that you are not fully engaged or attentively listening, which can hinder effective communication. This principle is particularly important in professional settings, where clear and respectful communication fosters better relationships and understanding. Therefore, waiting until the speaker has completed their points before asking questions is a key component of effective active listening.