@jean I want the person to really feel "heard," and also to be sure I actually did hear correctly, so I will make a habit of repeating back to them what they told me, and ask, "is that right?" This requires me to actually be listening to them closely, knowing I will reflect the essence of their communication back to them. I believe this will also make the person feel like what they have to say is important to me, and that I am really engaged in the conversation.