The most powerful way to connect to another person is to listen. Perhaps the most important thing we can give each other is our full attention. If you want to be appreciated, be a good listener. People love a good listener. Listening requires more than hearing. You can hear without really listening

Here are six basic suggestions to help you become a better listener.

1. Stop talking and listen.
   When someone is talking, listen to what they’re saying. Don’t interrupt. Stop and really listen. Don’t wait for them to finish talking just so you can talk. Listen and be prepared to respond to what they say.
2. Don’t be distracted.
   Don’t do busy work when someone is trying to say something to you. Look at them and listen instead of fiddling with objects, doodling, looking out the window, daydreaming, or other similar actions. It’s rude to allow yourself to be distracted when someone is wanting you to listen.
3. Empathize with them.
   Try to understand where they’re coming, what they’re feeling Try to see things from their point of view. Try to feel what they’re feeling
4. Be patient when they’re talking.
   If they pause, don’t jump in and start talking. Sometimes it takes time for individuals to express what they want to say.
5. Listen to their tone of voice.
   Listening to a person’s tone of voice helps you understand the emotion behind the person’s words, what the person is feeling as well as what is being said.
6. Watch for nonverbal communication.
   It’s important to listen with your eyes as well as your ears. People’s gestures, facial expressions, and eye-movements are part of their communication. Pay attention to these cues.