The OARS Technique is a fundamental framework in motivational interviewing that enhances conversation quality and builds rapport. It combines four key communication skills to create meaningful dialogue and understanding. This evidence-based approach helps professionals guide conversations effectively while maintaining empathy and professionalism.
15min
Situational Response
Professional CounselingTeam LeadershipClient ConsultationCoaching Sessions
Framework Steps
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Open Questions
Use questions that encourage detailed responses rather than simple yes/no answers, allowing the other person to share more information and perspectives
Key Points
•Start questions with what, how, tell me about, or describe
•Avoid questions beginning with do, are, or will
•Allow silence after asking questions to give time for thought
Key Sentence Structures
What are your thoughts about...?
How do you see this situation affecting...?
Tell me more about your experience with...
Could you describe what led to...?
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Affirmations
Acknowledge and reinforce the person's strengths, efforts, and positive behaviors to build confidence and rapport
Key Points
•Focus on specific actions or qualities rather than general praise
•Be genuine and authentic in your affirmations
•Connect affirmations to the person's goals or values
Key Sentence Structures
I appreciate your willingness to...
You've shown real commitment by...
Your approach to... demonstrates...
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Reflective Listening
Demonstrate understanding by restating or rephrasing what the person has said, helping to clarify meaning and show empathy
Key Points
•Use both simple and complex reflections
•Listen for underlying emotions and meanings
•Verify understanding through reflection
Key Sentence Structures
It sounds like you're saying...
I hear that you feel... when...
What I'm understanding is...
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Summarizing
Consolidate the key points of the conversation, linking different elements and checking shared understanding
Key Points
•Collect key points from throughout the conversation
•Link related elements together
•Check accuracy of summary with the speaker
Key Sentence Structures
Let me make sure I've understood the main points...
So far, we've discussed...
The key elements that emerged are...
Practice Guide
1. Content Preparation
•Review common open-ended question starters
•Prepare a list of specific affirmation phrases
•Practice reflection responses to common scenarios
•Create summary templates for different conversation types
2. Key Points of Expression
Open Questions 30%Affirmations 10%Reflective Listening 40%Summarizing 20%
•Maintain a calm and professional tone throughout
•Use appropriate pauses to allow for reflection
•Match your speaking pace to the other person
•Keep body language open and engaged
3. Practice Methods
1
Start with simple scenarios and gradually increase complexity
2
Record practice sessions for self-review
3
Practice each OARS component separately before combining
4
Role-play with different types of conversations
Key Inspection Points
Question openness
Affirmation specificity
Reflection accuracy
Summary completeness
Example Analysis
Career Development Discussion
Basic Case
Open Questions
What aspects of your current role do you find most engaging? How do you envision your career developing over the next few years?
Affirmations
I'm impressed by your initiative in taking on the recent project. Your dedication to professional growth really shows in your work.
Reflective Listening
I hear that while you enjoy the technical aspects of your role, you're looking for more leadership opportunities. This seems important to your long-term career satisfaction.
Summarizing
Let me summarize our discussion: You're excelling in your current technical role but want to develop leadership skills. You've identified project management as a potential growth area, and you're interested in mentoring junior team members.
Highlight Analysis
Effective use of open questions to explore career aspirations
Specific affirmations tied to recent achievements
Complex reflections that capture both content and feeling