10 things to help you connect with people
Communication skills become a luxury in the world of gadgets and Internet.
We all know the value of time. That is why today we want to have things FAST.
We want our food FAST.
We want to travel FAST.
We want to find a partner FAST.
We want to be promoted FAST.
Seems like there is only space for a short lunch, speedy trains, dating apps, and short-term goals. Eventually, we are dissatisfied with what we have, and nothing really matters to us.
Though being proactive and quick in life has always had a value, some things still require more time and effort. Especially when you think of the quality of what you get in the end.
Younger people consider themselves being smarter than older generations just because they are more tech-savvy and exposed to using all types of devices nowadays.
But about communication?
Aren’t we social animals as Arostotle said thousands years ago?
More than in private life in the business world communication skills play a big role for everyone who goes through the development process.
For a junior to get a promotion and for a senior to close a deal it comes down to being able to talk to people, be confident, and create a good impression.
These 10 components are small things that everyone can use or develop to better socialise with people on a daily basis or in special situations.
- SMILE
As simple as it may sound it always works when approaching people (no matter for the first time or not) to break the ice and bring positivity. It helps all parties to release the tension and continue in a more friendly manner.
Although I could also describe how important it is to have an eye contact and practice the right handshake but it all starts with the first step — smiling.
2. REMEMBER THE NAME
It is psychologically proven that when we hear our name we become more focused and feel more appreciated. Therefore, when meeting people always remember their name so you can use it the following conversation. And in case you are seeing someone who you have already met, make sure you remember their name. It always counts.
3. SHOW OPEN-MINDEDNESS
People by nature don’t like restrictions and limitations especially ambitious people. This means that when striving for success you want to make sure that you build your speech on the basis of freedom, equality, and acceptance. We all want to be understood and heard.
4. COMPLIMENT
It is very important to understand that making a compliment doesn’t mean making something up — that will sound fake and inappropriate. BUT one can always find something interesting in the other and highlight it. Try not to focus on the appearance (e.g. colour of eyes or strong arms), rather try to listen carefully and point out something unique about the person.
Example: “It is an interesting idea, I guess it takes a lot of practise to be able to come up with something like that.”
5. GIVE ATTENTION
If it is a group meeting, then don’t miss a chance to mention a person that you are trying to build a connection with. It can be simply a phrase where you mention something being said by him/her or reminding the goal that you both are interested in.
6. ASK FOR OPINION
Nothing makes us more valuable than knowing that what we think means something for others. When asking for the opinion, you demonstrate interest and create a comfort for further collaboration because the person will feel important and will bring out the best to impress you.
7. SHARE A SECRET
It shouldn’t necessarily be a big secret. It can be something unknown to the person that is not illegal to share but you can serve that with a great importance and confidentiality making your business partner feel trusted and as a result willing to share things with you too.
8. STALK THE PERSON’S INTERESTS IN ADVANCE
When you know in advance what are the interests of the person outside work you build a conversation around the topic. And it is always good to go for a meeting prepared — meaning having a small research about the person done in advance. There is nothing wrong about it, opposite it will show how interested you are and that you care.
9. BE FAMILY ORIENTATED
People like people who has family as their core value. Even if you don’t have your own family yet, you can always speak about your parents and siblings and then based on the reaction of the person ask about his or her. Though one needs to be careful here because based on the cultural differences people may not like speaking about private things.
10. EXCHANGE CONTACTS
Add each other on LinkedIn or if there is a need for the further collaboration don’t hesitate to exchange business cards. Asking for that always shows that you enjoyed the meeting, and you are ready to make the relationship work.
In the end, remember none of the above works really, if you fake it. The best way to win peoples’ hearts is to be authentic, real, and kind. Good luck!
