Give the speaker your full attention
Put away distractions
Maintain appropriate eye contact
Use open body language
Avoid interrupting
Let the speaker finish their thoughts
Focus on understanding, not responding
Nod or use brief verbal cues to show engagement
Ask clarifying questions
Paraphrase what you heard
Reflect feelings when appropriate
Pause before replying
Avoid judging or assuming
Summarize key points
Respond thoughtfully and respectfully