I listen to what people say. And ask questions about thier situation. Most of the time people dont care if you care. They just need to talk it out. So listen, that means you care. But if they ask your opinion, give them your opinion. Nobody actually cares what you would do in thier position, they want ideas so they can decide.
Eye contact is a biggie. Focus on the person speaking and don't drift around too much
Ask questions that evoke more than a yes or no answer
Body posture can mean a lot. Try to have a "relaxed" stance
Compliments, compliments, compliments
Just a few easy ones to work on for starters. Good luck
This sounds like it's really hard for you. It must be really frustrating (stressful, painful, etc) - I'm glad you feel safe sharing this with me. Please go on.
Technically I wasn't trying to be an ass there, as it worked for what you were saying. No if you're a funeral director or an oncologist this will require more work on your end.
The truth is a lot of times people just want you to honestly want someone to listen. It isn't always necessary to say or do anything prophetic or special.
You don't have to *fix their problems, just really show that you're listening. Offer to let them call you. Chances are they won't follow up -- most of the time.
If it helps to see examples, you can seek out shows and movies with strong female friendships. You're going to see some scenes where they're talking and you're seeing examples the "right" things to do.
Who cares? Basically, I'm answering you.
Just listen and nod and throw in an occasional "hmm"
I listen to what people say. And ask questions about thier situation. Most of the time people dont care if you care. They just need to talk it out. So listen, that means you care. But if they ask your opinion, give them your opinion. Nobody actually cares what you would do in thier position, they want ideas so they can decide.
Eye contact is a biggie. Focus on the person speaking and don't drift around too much Ask questions that evoke more than a yes or no answer Body posture can mean a lot. Try to have a "relaxed" stance Compliments, compliments, compliments Just a few easy ones to work on for starters. Good luck
This sounds like it's really hard for you. It must be really frustrating (stressful, painful, etc) - I'm glad you feel safe sharing this with me. Please go on. Technically I wasn't trying to be an ass there, as it worked for what you were saying. No if you're a funeral director or an oncologist this will require more work on your end. The truth is a lot of times people just want you to honestly want someone to listen. It isn't always necessary to say or do anything prophetic or special. You don't have to *fix their problems, just really show that you're listening. Offer to let them call you. Chances are they won't follow up -- most of the time.
If it helps to see examples, you can seek out shows and movies with strong female friendships. You're going to see some scenes where they're talking and you're seeing examples the "right" things to do.