Step 1: Understand the RESPECT framework for active listening.
RESPECT is an acronym used to help listeners remember the key behaviours required for genuine, focused listening during communication.
Step 2: Think about why the first action matters.
Before a person can truly listen, they must clear away anything that competes for their attention - mobile phones, background noise, open tabs on a computer, or other people walking past.
Step 3: Match this idea to the letter R.
The R in RESPECT stands for "Remove distractions." This is the foundational first step because without removing distractions, none of the other listening behaviours can work effectively.
Step 4: Eliminate the other options.
"Regards everyone" is not a standard RESPECT element. "Receive information" describes what happens after you start listening, not the first R step. "Respond quickly" is actually discouraged in active listening - one should pause and reflect before responding.
Step 5: Confirm with the definition.
Removing distractions means physically and mentally clearing the environment so you can devote full attention to the speaker. This matches (B) Remove distractions.
Step 6: State the final answer.
R in the RESPECT active listening acronym stands for Remove distractions.
\[ \boxed{ \text{(B) Remove distractions} } \]