Communication that leads to real human connection involves active listening and empathy. Active listening includes eye contact as well as verbal and non-verbal acknowledgments that you are listening. This includes things like nodding your head, responding affirmatively and asking questions for clarification. Empathy involves reflection, validation and a genuine concern for how another is thinking or feeling. This combination of active listening and empathy can be referred to as empathetic listening, can improve relationships of all kinds, from couples and families to friends and coworkers.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/active-listening-and-empathy-for-human-connection