Responsive communications means speaking or acting in a way that RESPONDS to the wants and needs of the other person in a clear way.  Responsiveness includes both listening and empathy responses, but also may include a large range of other behaviours such as acting on a person's request, or acting to address a need that a person hasn't expressed directly.  Find out more about responsive communication.

Responsive behaviour goes beyond listening and empathy because not only does it show that you understnd the other person, but shows you are prepared to act on that understanding to the best of your ability.  It is the extension of communication into action, and as we knnow action does speak louder than words.  Why do we need the idea of responsiveness?  To remind ourselves that our ability to prevent conflict and build relationships in the workplace isn't just based on talk...it is based on both talk and action that proves our sincerity when we talk.

This is an excerpt from Conflict Prevention In The Workplace.  For more detailed help on responsive communication and workplace conflict, click here.