Everyone's been in that situation: someone you know is rambling on and on about something you really don't care about! This article can actually teach you how to make it seem like you care! Read on.

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[edit] Steps

Make sure that you are having eye contact. This is very important. Most people would not think you're listening to them, if you're staring at the wall.
Nod a lot and pretend like you are interested into what they are saying.
Stare at them, but think of something else! This may or may not work, though, so if you attempt this, there is a risk.
Make sure that all you are doing is smiling periodically.
Say, "Oh really? Wow...", and "Yeah," a lot. Vary it with confirmation, "Oh I see," "I agree with what you are saying...," and excitement "Yeah," or, "Great idea!"
Hinge very short questions off of what could be an important word in what they just said. If they say "...vacation to Hawaii..", you'll look like you're paying more attention if you respond with "Hawaii?" even though you weren't really listening.
Repeat what they say showing that you understood what was said. Be watchful in changing some words though they mean the same...sometimes, it just has to be exact words.
Explain how you hate to leave, and you really enjoyed talking about whatever it was they were talking about.

[edit] Tips

Avoid talking to your boss about their personal life.
Try smiling and nodding. Its simple and always looks like you are paying attention. You can throw in a 'mhm' 'hm' from time to time.

[edit] Warnings

Have a sincere face on at all times! If you don't, it won't be too convincing.
Make sure you don't smile when they are talking about something negative or sad. Keep your ear out for shifts in their story!