One of the most popular and widely read business books of all time is Dale Carnegie’s How to Win Friends and Influence People. Recently, an article on the Business Insider blog by Eric Barber questioned the scientific validity of Carnegie’s advice on how to be more liked and influential. Long story short, Mr. Barber came to the conclusion that there was objective evidence to prove Carnegie correct.
For those of you who haven’t yet read How to Win Friends and Influence People I have listed the key six points from the book below. Sounds like common sense but it definitely serves as a good reminder.
1. “Become genuinely interested in other people.” — Actively showing interest in other people is powerful. Merely listening to what other people have to say and asking them to tell you more makes you more liked and people more receptive to your ideas.
2. “Smile” — Smiling does make you more attractive.
3. “Remember that a person’s name is, to that person, the sweetest and most important sound in any language.”
4. Be a good listener. Encourage others to talk about themselves.” — Talking about yourself provides as much pleasure as food or money.
5. “Talk in terms of other people’s interest.”
6. “Make the other person feel important . . . and do it sincerely.” — Feeling like we are in control reduces stress.
Have a great week! — Luke