backchanneling

Conversational support signals

Backchanneling is the practice of giving verbal or nonverbal feedback while someone else is speaking—nods, "uh-huh," "right," "mmm"—that signals attention without taking a conversational turn.

It encourages the speaker to continue.

Cultural norms vary: Her constant backchanneling made him feel heard, though some find it interruptive.

Also spelled backchaneling or as two words.

verbal

uh-huh

Informal vocal agreement

mm-hmmVocal nod
yeahCasual spoken agreement
rightMorally proper or entitled

okay · yes · I see · got it · sure · exactly · indeed · go on · really · interesting

nonverbal

nodding

Moving head affirmatively

eye contactDirect visual connection
smilingDisplaying warmth facially
head tiltingSideways neck movement

leaning in · mirroring · gesturing · facial expressions · raised eyebrows · frowning · head shaking · thumbs up · gaze · blinking

technique

active listening

Focused, responsive attention to speech

paraphrasingRestating in new words
summarizingCondensing to main points
clarifyingMaking something understandable

reflecting · echoing · prompting · encouraging · validating · acknowledging · repeating · restating · continuers · rapport-building

backchanneling

uh-huh

nodding

active listening

backchanneling

Opposites

Categories

Family