 Make the person that you're listening to the centre of your world close all open brain tabs and remove all visible distractions. If you're not that interested in what they have to say, suspend your disinterest just for a minute and act as if this conversation fascinates you. Ask all the questions that you have. Bring a childlike curiosity and leave no stone unturned. Identify and acknowledge their feelings and experiences. Reassure them that you're not judging them and that it's okay that they feel this way. Show you've been listening and check for understanding by reflecting back what you think you've heard in your own words. Encourage them to correct you if you've got it wrong. It might seem quiet to you, but their head is full of noise. Embrace the silence and let them fill the gaps.