This week a speaker came to our office and spoke about the importance of people. The speaker hit on several topics that I feel are important in the travel world. No matter where you are, what you are doing in this industry, or who you are around, how you interact with people is still the biggest part of our jobs.
Dale Carnegie, in his book “How to Win Friends and Influence People”, speaks about simple tips on how to invest in people. The funny thing is Dale wrote this book in 1936. These little things work as well today as they did back then.
These aren’t difficult strategies to accomplish or remember, nor does it take practice to perfect difficult techniques. These are simple ways to be “present” in your surroundings and invest in the individuals around you.
#1 – Be genuinely interested in other people
People love to talk about themselves. Studies have shown that the most frequently used word is “I”. Ask questions and allow people to talk. Most people are willing to talk about their families, passions, hobbies, or jobs. Don’t jump in and start telling them about your story. Listen and be attentive.
#2 – Smile
Simple, easy, and powerful. A simple smile is contagious. It is free, fun, and so worth it. SMILE!
#3 – Use people’s names
Your name is the sweetest thing that you hear every day. Everyone wants to hear their name. It shows connection, attention, and most of all, your investment in the person you are speaking to. Try to repeat the name three times in the conversation. It will show the other person that you are all about them.
#4 – Be a good listener
We were given two ears and one mouth for a reason. Listen to people twice as much as you speak and you will be surprised to find how much you will learn. Listening is not just being silent and waiting for your turn to speak. Listening is an active action. It involves digesting what is being said, thinking about the topic or item, and reacting to the thought appropriately. How many people do know that are simply waiting for you to stop talking so they can start?
#5 – Talk to people’s interests
Being able to relate to other’s interests and being knowledgeable about lots of topics makes it easier to talk to people. You don’t have to be an expert in everything, but show interest in topics that people are invested in and you can gain great insight. Having trouble following the topic/hobby/interest? See rules #1 and #4.
#6 Make people feel important
You can make people feel important in a myriad of ways. I have always felt that compliments work well. Remembering topics of discussions from previous meetings is an easy way to let someone know that they are important. Again, show GENUINE interest in others. If you compliment someone, make sure that you are sincere. Don’t fake it!
These are simple ways to get to know people on a new assignment. If you invest in the people around you by being genuine and showing interest, you will gain acceptance fast, friendships will deepen, and most importantly, you are likely to have a great assignment!
