HOW TO “CONNECT” WITH PEOPLE

In this post you will learn some simple, effective ways to connect with even the most difficult
people. This post will help build your confidence when meeting new people or when reconnecting with difficult people.  Guaranteed!

• Enter into the conversation with an open mind. Assume that you have something valuable to learn from this person. Remember, everyone is an expert in something.

 

• Actively listen. Listen with the intention to UNDERSTAND, not to REPLY. I repeat, listen with the intention to understand where the other person is coming from, NOT TO REPLY.

 

• Ask open ended questions: Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How.

 

• Let your thoughts come and go. Release them as quickly as they come into your mind so you can actively be listening. It is not possible to “hear” what the other person is saying if your mind is full and contemplating what you want to say next. Be present. Stay in the moment.

 

• If there is something you don't know, then say you don't know. Nobody likes a “know it all.”

 

• Try not to make their experience yours, unless it is truly relevant and helpful to make that connection. Let them have and share their story. Everyone's story is unique and individual.

 

• IT IS NOT ABOUT ME. Please remember this. Make it all about them. Make them feel special.  Be sincere about this and they will never forget you and how you made them feel.

 

• Last but not least, be sincerely interested in other people and always be prepared to be amazed!

Happy Connecting!