The best way to let someone know that you understand and care about what they are saying is to
© be polite and wait for them to finish talking, then judge them on what they said.
O give the speaker instances of when a similar thing happened to you to distract them from their problem.
• nod your head, look them in the eye, and show concern for what they are saying.
• stop the speaker from continuing if there is something you need them to repeat or explain.
• ask clarifying questions to show that you are actively listening and trying to understand their perspective.
• paraphrase what they said to confirm your understanding and to show that you are paying attention.
• offer empathy and support by expressing understanding of their feelings and experiences.
• avoid interrupting or changing the subject, and give them your full attention while they are speaking.