SOLER
SOLER is a communication framework designed to improve active listening,
rapport and therapeutic relationships through the use of effective non-verbal
communication. Developed by psychologist Gerard Egan as part of his Skilled
Helper Model, SOLER provides practitioners with practical guidance on body
language that conveys attentiveness, empathy and respect during
conversations. The acronym stands for Sit squarely, Open posture, Lean towards,
Eye contact and Relax. Within social work, SOLER supports relationship-based,
person-centred and strengths-based practice by helping practitioners create
safe, trusting environments in which individuals feel listened to, valued and
understood (Egan, 2019).
Gerard Egan introduced SOLER during the 1970s within counselling and helping
professions. He recognised that communication extends far beyond spoken
words and that non-verbal behaviours significantly influence whether individuals
feel comfortable sharing sensitive information. Since its development, SOLER has
become widely taught in counselling, nursing, psychology, healthcare and social
work as a foundation for effective interpersonal communication. Although the
model is relatively simple, it remains highly influential because relationship
building lies at the heart of professional helping.
The SOLER model consists of five key elements.
S – Sit Squarely
Sit squarely means positioning yourself so that you are appropriately facing the
individual, demonstrating interest and engagement in the conversation.
Facing someone directly communicates attentiveness and a willingness to listen.
However, practitioners should remain sensitive to personal preferences and
cultural differences, recognising that sitting directly opposite may feel
intimidating for some individuals. The emphasis is therefore on being physically
available rather than rigidly following a specific seating position.
O – Open Posture
Open posture refers to maintaining relaxed body language by avoiding crossed
arms, turning away or other closed positions that may suggest defensiveness,
disinterest or judgement.
SOLER is a communication framework designed to improve active listening,
rapport and therapeutic relationships through the use of effective non-verbal
communication. Developed by psychologist Gerard Egan as part of his Skilled
Helper Model, SOLER provides practitioners with practical guidance on body
language that conveys attentiveness, empathy and respect during
conversations. The acronym stands for Sit squarely, Open posture, Lean towards,
Eye contact and Relax. Within social work, SOLER supports relationship-based,
person-centred and strengths-based practice by helping practitioners create
safe, trusting environments in which individuals feel listened to, valued and
understood (Egan, 2019).
Gerard Egan introduced SOLER during the 1970s within counselling and helping
professions. He recognised that communication extends far beyond spoken
words and that non-verbal behaviours significantly influence whether individuals
feel comfortable sharing sensitive information. Since its development, SOLER has
become widely taught in counselling, nursing, psychology, healthcare and social
work as a foundation for effective interpersonal communication. Although the
model is relatively simple, it remains highly influential because relationship
building lies at the heart of professional helping.
The SOLER model consists of five key elements.
S – Sit Squarely
Sit squarely means positioning yourself so that you are appropriately facing the
individual, demonstrating interest and engagement in the conversation.
Facing someone directly communicates attentiveness and a willingness to listen.
However, practitioners should remain sensitive to personal preferences and
cultural differences, recognising that sitting directly opposite may feel
intimidating for some individuals. The emphasis is therefore on being physically
available rather than rigidly following a specific seating position.
O – Open Posture
Open posture refers to maintaining relaxed body language by avoiding crossed
arms, turning away or other closed positions that may suggest defensiveness,
disinterest or judgement.
