Skip to main content
Two women talking on a bench

Weatherhead's Ellen Van Oosten discusses the importance of engaged listening

Media | January 12, 2026 | Story by: Editorial Staff
Media Expert: Ellen Van Oosten

Authentic connection through engaged listening

Smart Business: Ellen Van Oosten, associate professor of organizational behavior at Weatherhead School of Management, argued that engaged listening—giving full attention without interrupting or multitasking—is essential to making people feel valued and understood. “A fundamental human need is to be understood,” she opined, noting that true listening strengthens connection, collaboration and leadership.