Actually listen to what the other person is saying rather than focusing on your reaction to it.

I agree everyone loves a good listener. But to build a rapport you need to build trust. Just being honest and not trying to impress somewone (relax you'll impress them with your dazzling personality sooner or later) will lay the foundation for a strong buisnees relationship or friendship. Try not to be too nosey and offer a little bit about yourself. Someone who wants to know all about you and never reveals anything about themselves could be a manipulator.