Build Rapport – Make a Lasting Impression

Monday, December 19th, 2011 at 9:04 am

Build Rapport – Make a Lasting Impression

How do you connect? When you meet somebody do you greet them with a smile? When you say farewell, does that person feel better then when you met? Being social and building quality relationships is beneficial for anyone. It takes effort. Your life will be enriched both personally and professionally. So when you do connect, what’s the best way to make a lasting impression?

Here are 6 things to help you connect better. Regardless if you are face to face or online, take these concepts to heart and good things will happen.

1. Take genuine interest in other’s interest. People have something to say. Each person wants to be valued. Take a sincere interest in their work, hobbies, family, events, etc. People will light up when they talk about something they feel passionate. Ask questions. It’s not about you. Make them feel special and you’ll create a much deeper connection.

2. Smile. What is the value of a smile? It has been proven time and time again that a smile is contagious. People with a great smile are more successful, have a greater influence and a larger network of friends. Meet and say farewell with a smile. Nobody likes to be around a scrooge. Your smile says a lot about you, make it count.

3. Reign with names. Everybody likes to hear their name. It makes people feel wanted, that they have something of value to offer. Learn their name. When you meet someone for the first time, use their name three times in a few sentences of conversation so it sticks in your brain. How impressive is it to meet somebody just met several days or weeks ago and know their name without asking? It says you matter, you left an impression. The most successful business people know names and faces of thousands.

4. Listen Longer. When someone speaks, tune in. Make eye contact, lean in, show that you are interested in what they are telling you. Let them talk. It shows that you value what they are saying and that it matters.

5. Discuss what matters to them. You can sense passion in people’s speech. Whether they need to vent or explain how they are going to overcome adversity, discuss what matters to them. They want to feel their problem, situation or passion matters.

6. Leave others a little better. Show you care. It can be as easy as a smile, a hug, or a ‘hang in there buddy, I’m here for ya.’ Tell them ‘thank you.’ The impression you leave dictates the next meeting you have. Make it count.

Every person wants to be valued. Life is to be cherished. The relationships you build and the experiences you have make the memories that make life enjoyable.

Rik Lepine