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).

Jim Allen is a professional life & business coach. For more ideas, subscribe to his free bi-weekly ezine, THE BIG IDEA, by sending a blank email to: SubscribeGA@CoachJim.com