When a friend or family member starts to tell you about her day, relate a story, or ask a question, are you listening? Really listening?

If you hesitate to give an emphatic yes, ask yourself these questions:

• Do you stop what you’re doing? That includes texting, looking through the mail, channel surfing…

• Do you turn toward the person, look at him and give him your full attention?

• Do you express interest with a smile, nodding your head, supportive uh-huh’s, and receptive body language?

Listening is a powerful relationship builder! Showing that you really are listening makes people feel appreciated and important.

Plus there’s a  bonus for being a good listener.  People like people who truly listen to them!