Which term is used to describe the process of signaling that the listener is following the speaker’s message, commonly heard in phone conversations?

Which term is used to describe the process of signaling that the listener is following the speaker’s message, commonly heard in phone conversations?

• A. Back-Channel Features
• B. Agenda Setting
• C. Adherence Signals
• D. Topic Control

Answer: (A)

Back-channel features are the cues listeners use to show they’re following what the speaker is saying. These are the quick verbal or nonverbal responses that indicate engagement and understanding without interrupting the speaker—things like “uh-huh,” “yeah,” “I see,” or brief nods. In phone conversations, where you can’t rely on visual cues, these back-channel signals become especially important for confirming that the message is being followed and keeping the speaker connected to the listener’s attention. The other terms describe something different: agenda setting and topic control are about steering or dominating what is talked about, not signaling listening. Adherence signals would imply following rules or instructions rather than showing active listening and comprehension.

Back-channel features are the cues listeners use to show they’re following what the speaker is saying. These are the quick verbal or nonverbal responses that indicate engagement and understanding without interrupting the speaker—things like “uh-huh,” “yeah,” “I see,” or brief nods. In phone conversations, where you can’t rely on visual cues, these back-channel signals become especially important for confirming that the message is being followed and keeping the speaker connected to the listener’s attention.

The other terms describe something different: agenda setting and topic control are about steering or dominating what is talked about, not signaling listening. Adherence signals would imply following rules or instructions rather than showing active listening and comprehension.