It’s natural to experience nervousness when meeting new people. So much hangs in the balance of that delicate first impression. Act the wrong way and you might be perceived as stupid, weird, or worst of all, the dreaded creepy.
Ask people about themselves. Find what they’re passionate about and what they’re trying to achieve in life. The answers are often fascinating and different than you’d expect. Your sincere interest will endear you to them and you’ll learn a lot as well. Naturally, they will ask you them same questions about yourself, and in only a few minutes you have made a lasting connection.
Smile. A smile will let people know that you are pleasant and inviting. If you smile at someone, look them in the eye. Making eye contact is crucial. Have you ever met someone who couldn’t look you in the eye? What was your perception of them? Eye contact is also a great way to start conversations. The eyes are the window to the soul, so making eye contact creates a powerful connection. Be careful not to stare, but if you see someone you’d like speak with, try to make eye contact as you walk by.For the most part, if you smile at someone, they won’t do anything but smile back. If they don’t, then maybe they are just having a bad day. It is up to you to set the mood of the encounter. Make it happy by being the first to smile.
Be a good listener. Listen when other people are talking to you. It isn’t nice to just ignore other peoples’ opinions and stories. If you find that someone is becoming rude or pushy, acknowledge their opinion, issue a compliment and excuse yourself politely
Be courteous. Always say “please,” “thank you” and “you’re welcome.” You can also address people by sir or ma’am, depending on the occasion. Be patient, observant, and considerate. Treat people with respect. Even if you don’t particularly like someone at first, they could end up being a really interesting and kind person.
Be positive. Don’t be negative or critical. Keep looking for the positive in any given situation. Cheer them up. Assume the best about people. Most people don’t mean to insult or offend others most of the time. Unless it’s overt, assume the slight was accidental.
What do you do to be friendly?
1 response so far ↓
Brian Grimes // July 13, 2009 at 3:48 pm |
These are helpful. I have a tendency of talkin too much when I’m nervous around new people.(and sometimes not-so-new).
I would add to the above before mentioned and suggest watching carefully what comes out of one’s mouth. So far my progress in this area is slow. Perhaps I could use a little prayer from you in this area Gary.