One of the easiest ways we can show our loved ones we care is by listening. As we strive to improve these skills, our relationships with our friends and family will strengthen. Here are some tips for becoming a better listener.

Put the Phone Away

Have you ever been trying to talk to someone while they are using their phone? Did it feel as though you had their full attention? Did you feel genuinely listened to? Technology is an amazing thing, but it is important to set it aside when someone is talking to you. It shows respect and that you care for what the other person is saying. In addition, it is a great way to show someone that listening to them is the most important thing to you in that moment.

Make Eye Contact

Another way we can become better at listening is by making eye contact during conversation. It shows that we are giving our full attention. It’s hard to talk to someone when we feel like we aren’t a priority. If you are staring at your phone or getting distracted by things in your environment, that’s exactly the kind of message you are sending. Maintaining eye contact will let others know you think what they’re saying is important.

Ask Questions

Ask they type of questions that let the other person know you are really listening. Try hard to understand the entire situation through clarifying questions. You can help people express themselves by asking questions that require them to elaborate and open up more. Be interested in what they have to say. One sided conversations are awkward. They can make your friends or family feel as if you don’t care. Make your loved ones feel important.

Don’t Interrupt

This one may be much easier said than done for some people. It is so important to let people talk without interruption. If you interrupt, there is a chance you could hijack the conversation, or derail it from where the speaker wanted it to go. Do not try to take their experiences and relate them back to yourself. Make the conversation about them while they are talking. React appropriately while they are speaking and wait until they are finished to contribute heavily to the conversation.

Summarize

If you really want to impress your loved ones, briefly summarize everything they said when they are finished talking. That is the best way to show that you’ve been intently listening. When you give the speaker a short recap of what they said, it gives them an opportunity to correct any miscommunications that may have occurred. It also gives them the chance to elaborate further on things they may have skimmed over the first time.

When we take the time to listen to our loved ones, it shows them that we are invested in the relationship. It’s important to make others feel important and to be an engaged listener. Use these tips to help develop better communication and relationships with those around you.