Learn how to ask questions based on your interests while being polite and others will feel they are interesting. Follow up with more questions to continue showing your interest; the person you’re talking to should never feel that you’re trying to cut the conversation short.
Repeating someone’s name is not just about helping you to remember that person. The more often you say someone’s name, the more that person will feel that you like them and the greater the chance they’ll warm up to you. If someone else walks up while you’re having a conversation, introduce the two people by name.
Kindness, coupled with respect, makes others feel as if they are loved and cared for. This is a powerful tool during interaction.
Nobody expects you to be an expert. Sometimes you can build rapport just by asking questions, and not caring if you seem naive. There are people who like talking about and explaining their interests, and will like you for listening. It is your level of interest and willingness to engage in topics that makes you an interesting person to be around. Exercise an open mind. Let others do the explaining. If someone mistakenly thinks you know more about the topic, be genuine and simply say that your knowledge is limited but that you’re hoping to learn more about it.
In regions where shaking hands is not customary, use a different appropriate physical gesture to show you’re interested in talking to someone. A kiss on both cheeks, a bow, or another physical gesture gets the conversation off to a good start. [13] X Research source
If you notice that someone is putting a lot of effort into something, compliment them, even if you feel that there is room for improvement. [16] X Expert Source Candice MostisserRelationship Coach Expert Interview. 24 January 2020. If you notice that someone has changed something about themselves (haircut, manner of dress, etc. ), notice it and point out something you like about it. If you’re asked directly, be charming and deflect the question with a very general compliment.
Go beyond a mere “Thank you” and enjoin this with “I’m glad you like it,” or “It is so kind of you to have noticed. " These are compliments in return. Avoid backhanding a compliment. There is nothing worse to a person complimenting than to receive the response “Oh well, I wish I were as ______ as you in that situation. " This is tantamount to saying, “No, I am not what you are saying I am; your judgment is wrong. "
