However, unsolicited advice usually makes the other person defensive. Passing judgment by giving advice will keep others from expressing their feelings to you. For example, a friend tells you that he has failed a test in school. If you indicate that more study time will help him with his grades, he will probably just get defensive and hostile. Listening is an art that can be learned.
People often talk at each other without really listening.
People with problems need to feel they are being heard. Make a sincere effort to listen and understand. Let them know you are listening by eye contact, posture, your tone of voice, and your replies. Reflect thoughts and feelings. One of the most productive things you can do when listening is to give feedback by simply restating what was said.