Will Rogers once said: "I never met a man that I didn't like." He was a great example of how we can be friends with everyone we meet, but it might be more difficult than it looks. We are all different people with distinct talents and abilities. Not everyone makes friends easily. Here are a few tips to help:
1. Praise and Promote
No one likes negativity. Switch to the positive when you find yourself critical of someone.Compliments should be sincere. Politeness goes a long way so make sure to include thank you, you're welcome, good morning and good night. You never know what people are experiencing in their lives, so be encouraging. Comments like "You really impress me" or It's so good to see you" are some of the phrases that the happiest people say everyday,welcoming words to anyone's ears. Remember that words are important to everyone so keep them positive.
2. Ask questions
Asking leading questions like, "What do you do for fun?" or "What's your favorite movie?" can get a conversation going. Sincerely ask and then really listen. Be genuinely interested in others, because people are important. There are natural questions you can pull from every situation, such as "How do you know the people here?" at a party or "Where are you originally from?" while talking to someone in the park.
"Who is the most interesting person you've met?" or "Where would you love to visit if you had the time?" are two questions to start a conversation. Awkwardness falls away and a friendship starts to evolve as you get a conversation going.
3. Remember the face
When you talk with someone, notice their face. Compliment them sincerely. Do you like their smile? Their eyes? The way they carry themselves? Their height? Their outfit? Sincere compliments can put people at ease, and open up conversation. Keeping eye contact with that person when he or she is speaking tells them they are important enough for your full attention.
4. Call by name
People like hearing their name, so remember and use it in conversation. Remembering a nickname is an additional help. It makes the connection more personal. If you have a hard time remembering names, try connecting the name with a certain characteristic or memory with that name to help you not forget.
These four tips take a certain amount of effort but pay off as you learn the art of making friends. This is an attribute that makes starting a new job or moving into a new neighborhood less stressful. Everyone loves to be appreciated. These skills can help others feel better about themselves, and help you be a better friend.
