Why is it we click with some people and not others? What if we could actually click with everyone we meet? What would it take?
Try these simple steps to instantly connect with anyone–and to build stronger relationships with the people who are already in your life:
Take a genuine interest.
Everyone–everyone–has something unique to offer. Find out what makes people who they are. Hear their story. Ask questions. Dig deep and connect.
Build on common ground.
At its most basic level, any relationship is built on some kind of common ground. When you meet someone, try to find something that connects you to similar backgrounds, values experiences. When you detect a pattern, a “Yeah, me too!” moment, connection is instantaneous.
Smile.
“Smile and the whole world smiles with you.” Sure, it’s a cliche, but for good reason. A smile generates enthusiasm and interest; it communicates friendliness and goodwill; it shows you to be accessible and approachable. Smile when you speak to someone, as you walk into a room, and when you pick up the phone.
Remember names.
Notice how people introduce themselves and let that be your guide in addressing them. Remembering a person’s name is important, and using it occasionally in conversation creates connection and helps you remember.
Encourage people to talk.
The key to locking into any relationship is to invite someone to talk, and then listen. Most people are just waiting for the other person to finish so they can say their part. Listen and show interest, even if it means stretching your attention span.
Learn from everyone you meet.
Keep the focus on the other person. As a bonus, this prevents your being dragged into gossip. Stay focused on his or her interests; find something this person can teach you that will be useful or interesting to know.
Show up with enthusiasm.
People who live with passion find it easier to connect with others. Knowing what you really care about and why lets you tap into your own enthusiasm. Upbeat people are inherently likable, and those who radiate enthusiasm tend to click with others.
Make others feel important.
Use your words and attitude to create a spotlight. Let the person you’re speaking with know he or she is important, and important to you, by the way you talk. Let the sound of your voice be energized. Ask for input. Ask for advice. Ask for help. Ask for insight. Ask for experience. All of these invitations tell the person, “I find you important.”
Look for the good.
Be generous with others; look for points of agreement and places where you can affirm or reinforce what they’re saying. Speak patiently and with care, and those around you will feel heard and appreciated.
Treat others as you want to be treated.
As often as we’ve heard this, it’s still easy to forget to do it from time to time. Don’t overthink or complicate it: The power is in the simplicity.
Connecting with others does not take much. It is truly simple. Just be mindful, thoughtful, and genuinely interested.
Offer an honest compliment or your authentic appreciation. There’s always something to appreciate about almost anyone.
Maybe it’s nothing more than being genuine, as simple as being a leader–or a person–who cares, because when you care, you’ll instantly click with everyone you meet.
N A T I O N A L B E S T S E L L E R
THE LEADERSHIP GAP
What Gets Between You and Your Greatness
After decades of coaching powerful executives around the world, Lolly Daskal has observed that leaders rise to their positions relying on a specific set of values and traits. But in time, every executive reaches a point when their performance suffers and failure persists. Very few understand why or how to prevent it.
Additional Reading you might enjoy:
- 12 Successful Leadership Principles That Never Grow Old
- A Leadership Manifesto: A Guide To Greatness
- How to Succeed as A New Leader
- 12 of The Most Common Lies Leaders Tell Themselves
- 4 Proven Reasons Why Intuitive Leaders Make Great Leaders
- The One Quality Every Leader Needs To Succeed
- The Deception Trap of Leadership
Photo Credit: Getty Images
Of Lolly’s many awards and accolades, Lolly was designated a Top-50 Leadership and Management Expert by Inc. magazine. Huffington Post honored Lolly with the title of The Most Inspiring Woman in the World. Her writing has appeared in HBR, Inc.com, Fast Company (Ask The Expert), Huffington Post, and Psychology Today, and others. Her newest book, The Leadership Gap: What Gets Between You and Your Greatness has become a national bestseller.