I normally go with mostly listening, let them talk. Throw in an occasional "mm-mm" or a shake of the head. Mirror their emotions. They seem angry, be like "dang wtf." They seem hurt, say "thats not right." Or opt for simply asking them short questions that would prompt them to continue speaking. "Why would he do that?" Or "what was she thinking" or "then what did you do?"
You could throw in an occasional "I would have......."
And when they are wrapping up their story a "Im sorry that happened to you" or "wow that sucks/sounds terrible" seem to be good options.
I do not offer advice unless they specifically ask.
AgitatedGrass3271 t1_j6cjzge wrote
Reply to LPT Request: What do I do/say when someone is venting to me? by lamelumi_
I normally go with mostly listening, let them talk. Throw in an occasional "mm-mm" or a shake of the head. Mirror their emotions. They seem angry, be like "dang wtf." They seem hurt, say "thats not right." Or opt for simply asking them short questions that would prompt them to continue speaking. "Why would he do that?" Or "what was she thinking" or "then what did you do?" You could throw in an occasional "I would have......." And when they are wrapping up their story a "Im sorry that happened to you" or "wow that sucks/sounds terrible" seem to be good options.
I do not offer advice unless they specifically ask.