The 10 Keys to Connecting with Anyone

Connecting with someone, establishing rapport, does not have
to be a difficult thing, although many people find it so.
Here are ten key points to remember whenever you set off to
meet new people...

1. Be happy with yourself.

Much of the insecurity we feel in meeting new people has to
do with how we feel about ourselves as opposed to the other
person. Work hard and develop positive self-esteem.

2. Act Confident...

.....even if you're not! Chances are the other person is as
nervous as you are.

3. Expect to connect.

Think positive. Tell yourself that you *will* connect with
people... and you will.

4. Smile!

It's hard NOT to connect with somebody who's cheerful and
smiling.

5. Notice others.

Maybe *they* are smiling and cheerful. Maybe you are
attracted to something they are saying or discussing,
whatever. Just look for reasons to connect with people
instead of excuses NOT to.

6. Listen.

One of the greatest gifts you can give another person is to
listen to them. Instead of jumping in to say something,
listen a bit longer instead.

7. Ask questions.

Go one step further and truly take an interest in what they
are talking about. Ask thoughtful questions that draw them
out and focus the conversation on them.

8. Connect with individuals.

You can speak to, present to, teach, or train large groups,
but you can only really connect with the individuals in that
group. Emphasize this aspect of your communication and build
those one-on-one connections.

9. Be willing to compromise.

Meeting new people or working with new people invariably
means running into positions, opinions, and practices you
don't agree with. If you want to build the relationship,
expect to compromise from time to time.

10. Treat others as you'd like to be treated.

Just to start. As you get to know each other work hard to
treat them like they want to be treated (which may be very
different way, indeed).