Paraphrasing

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Paraphrasing
Lisa J. Downs

• American Society for Training and Development

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Paraphrasing Defined

• Paraphrasing is an effective form of verbal
  feedback to use when listening
• It is not simply repetition or parroting, but
  restating another persons statement in your own
  words to gain understanding

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Paraphrasing Defined

• Paraphrasing enables the listener to clarify the
  speakers meaning
• It also conveys interest in what the speaker is
  saying and helps create a supportive environment
  for the conversation

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When to Paraphrase

• The listener is not completely sure he or she has
  fully understood the speakers meaning
• The speaker is emotional and may be using highly
  charged language
• The listener needs better understanding of the
  message to respond well

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When to Paraphrase

• The listener may react strongly to the message
  which can interfere with interpretation of the
  meaning
• The speaker may have a thick accent or is
  speaking a language that is not their primary
  one, possibly causing difficulty for the listener

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Paraphrasing Example

• Speaker Im having a hard time communicating
  with Bill and I dont know whats
  going on.
• Paraphrase It sounds like youre frustrated
  that you and Bill arent getting along these
  days.
• Speaker Yeah, and Im just not sure what to do
  about it.

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Paraphrasing Example

• Speaker I thought I did a good job on that
  report I turned in, but I got it
  back from my boss today with corrections
  all over it.
• Paraphrase If Im hearing you correctly,
  seeing those corrections was a big
  surprise.
• Speaker It threw me for a loop, thats for
  sure.

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Paraphrasing Example

• Speaker I feel awful today.
• Paraphrase It sounds like youre coming down
  with a cold.
• Speaker Actually, Im just dreading having to
  present at the department meeting
  this afternoon.

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Steps for Paraphrasing

• 1. Listen carefully to the speakers message
• 2. Determine the meaning of the message
• 3. If you think a paraphrase is needed, restate
  the message in your own words to share the
  meaning you received

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Paraphrasing Tips

• If the paraphrase is off target, the speaker will
  set the listener straight
• Paraphrasing may not be appropriate in all
  circumstances, especially for simple, quick
  verbal exchanges
• It may seem awkward at first, but it will become
  more natural with practice