PersonDeskPersonDesk

How we train listeners

[PLACEHOLDER] Becoming a PersonDesk listener means committing to real training, ongoing supervision, and a code of conduct. Here's what that looks like.

Who can apply

[PLACEHOLDER] You must be 18+, pass a background check, and commit to our training program. No professional credentials required — we teach the skills. What matters is empathy, reliability, and willingness to learn.

How we choose

  1. 1

    [PLACEHOLDER] Application

    [PLACEHOLDER] Tell us about yourself and why you want to listen.

  2. 2

    [PLACEHOLDER] Interview

    [PLACEHOLDER] A 30-minute conversation with our team to assess fit.

  3. 3

    [PLACEHOLDER] Background check

    [PLACEHOLDER] We verify identity and check for any disqualifying history.

  4. 4

    [PLACEHOLDER] Training enrollment

    [PLACEHOLDER] Accepted applicants begin our 6-week training program.

Training

[PLACEHOLDER] All listeners complete these modules before they ever see a real conversation:

[PLACEHOLDER] Active Listening Fundamentals

[PLACEHOLDER] How to listen without fixing, reflecting emotions, and creating safety.

[PLACEHOLDER] Boundaries and Scope

[PLACEHOLDER] What listeners can and can't do. When to refer to professional help.

[PLACEHOLDER] Crisis Response

[PLACEHOLDER] Recognizing warning signs, de-escalation, and when to escalate to supervisors.

[PLACEHOLDER] Cultural Competency

[PLACEHOLDER] Listening across differences in background, identity, and experience.

[PLACEHOLDER] Self-Care for Listeners

[PLACEHOLDER] Managing compassion fatigue, setting boundaries, and staying resilient.

Supervision and support

[PLACEHOLDER] Listeners are never alone. Every conversation is reviewed by a supervisor. We hold weekly group supervision sessions and provide 1:1 mentorship. If a conversation feels heavy, listeners can tag a supervisor in real-time.

What listeners can and can't do

What listeners do

  • [PLACEHOLDER] Listen with empathy and without judgment
  • [PLACEHOLDER] Help you explore your feelings and thoughts
  • [PLACEHOLDER] Offer coping strategies and resources
  • [PLACEHOLDER] Connect you with professional help if needed

What listeners don't do

  • [PLACEHOLDER] Provide therapy, counseling, or medical advice
  • [PLACEHOLDER] Diagnose mental health conditions
  • [PLACEHOLDER] Prescribe or recommend medications
  • [PLACEHOLDER] Handle acute crises without supervision

Our code of conduct

[PLACEHOLDER] All listeners agree to confidentiality, respect, and professionalism. Read the full code:

Listener Code of Conduct

What happens in a crisis

[PLACEHOLDER] If you or someone else is in immediate danger, listeners are trained to escalate to supervisors and connect you with emergency resources. Learn more about our safety policy:

Safety policy

Ready to listen?

[PLACEHOLDER] If you're empathetic, reliable, and willing to learn, we'd love to hear from you.

Apply to become a listener