I came across the following recently and it struck me as being a really powerful statement.
“Seek first to understand, then to be understood. Persuasive communication is essential, but it begins with being an empathetic listener. Most people do not listen to understand; they listen with the intent to reply.”
It comes from Steven Covey. It’s probably better to not write anything more about it as that might detract from the effectiveness of this short statement. A better use of your time might be to re-read it.