The best way to get someone to trust you is to listen. By listening sincerely and patiently, you tell them with your actions that you are safe. You have proven that you won't be jumping to conclusions or judging them before hearing their point of view. You also are confirming that you care about them because you are willing to give them your time and attention.
It is healthy to hear other's perspectives and realize they are valuable even if they do not agree with you. The ability to be a great listener takes time and patience and practice, but it is a skill that will benefit you in all areas of your life. Not only will active listening make you more patient, but it will also make you less judgmental.
As you become a patient listener, more people will feel comfortable approaching you and expressing their feelings to you. This skill will help you relationally and at work. Excellent listening skills make you a more competent and capable employee because you will be more efficient at finishing tasks accurately. Besides, you will reduce the risk of misunderstanding.
Active listeners are effective listeners. It is not only about hearing, which is an automatic response to sound, and does not take any effort. Active listening will have you interpreting nonverbal cues like facial expressions and body language. Active listeners will summarize back what was said, so there is not any misunderstanding. They will nod their heads and show interest in the conversation. All in listening is encouragement with your ears. If you are having relationship difficulties, whether, with a spouse, a roommate, or a coworker, first look at your listening skills before you think about their faults.
Some nonverbal signs of active listening that you can practice are smiling, eye contact, posture, and complete attention. Verbal signs of active listening are remembering what was said and proving that you do by summarizing. Encourage and reduce misunderstandings by asking relevant questions. Try to become a master listener by being interested in who is speaking and finding hints about what they are like by what they are saying. Think about the content, even if it is not your favorite topic, find something interesting or engaging in the material. At do not watch the clock. In the end, having patience will save time by eliminating the need for repetition. Show someone you care by giving them the gift of listening.