What skill is essential for effective communication when meeting someone new?

Active listening is essential for effective communication when meeting someone new because it involves fully concentrating, understanding, and responding thoughtfully to the speaker. This skill allows you to engage with the other person genuinely, demonstrating interest and respect for what they have to say. By practicing active listening, you can build rapport, clarify any misunderstandings, and ensure that the communication is meaningful and effective. It enables a two-way interaction where both parties feel valued and understood, which is especially important when initiating new relationships.

In contrast, while memory recall might help you retain information about the person, it does not contribute to the immediate flow of conversation as effectively as listening does. Quick speaking might hinder clear communication, as it can lead to misunderstandings or make it difficult for the other person to keep up. Note-taking, although it can be useful in certain contexts, is not a primary skill required for interpersonal communication during an initial meeting, where the focus should be on dialogue rather than documentation.