I have to admit, I appreciate sympathetic listening but have not always been good at it myself. The two simple changes I've made: giving someone my complete attention (leaving my phone at my desk) and letting them speak (not my nature) have made a huge difference. It's a combination of offering reassurance and allowing some venting--I realize that people need validation of being heard. Even on the small scale of a 2 min conversation, the benefit is very noticeable in terms of stress and emotional charge of the situation. I can see that it has long term value and adds depth to working relationships with colleagues.. Has anyone else experienced the same?