Ways to make a lasting impression

) Take interest in other people’s interests

Go out of your comfort zone and try to be interested in the interests of others. Remember that for you to create a connection with someone, you have to open doors. Doors may be in the

form of their interests. Ask someone about what they are up to and be ready to ignite the conversation. Make people feel that you are not another robot. Carnegie shares, “Today there is simply no excuse not to take an interest in others’ interests. Even if you are not actively involved in clubs, groups or local organizations where face-to-face interactions are possible, there is still an abundance of opportunities to learn about others’ passions and concerns. The bottom line is that you must become genuinely interested in others before you can expect anyone to be interested in you.”

Open up so others will also open up. Try to exert effort in knowing what makes others happy and stimulated by talking to them, listening to them, and doing a bit of reading and research.

2) Wear a smile each time

Oftentimes, we set aside the value of smiling. We seem to forget that a smile can mean thousands of words. It is uplifting and it is so beautiful no one can resist it. Impress people by wearing a smile each time. Yes, even in your toughest days. According to experts, if you make smiling a habit, it also affects your innermost state. When you smile, others feel comfortable and at ease. When you smile, they feel important and appreciated. It leads to better connections. As for Carnegie, “There is a simple reason for this phenomenon: when we smile, we are letting people know we are happy to be with them, happy to meet them, happy to be interacting with them. They in turn feel happier to be dealing with us. Of course we don’t always feel like smiling, but if we make the effort, we not only make those around us happier but also become happier ourselves.”

3) Listen longer, listen attentively

We always think that for one to be a good leader and influence, he or she has to be the best talker. What most people forget is that leaders and people who leave lasting impressions are those who know how to listen longer and those who do it attentively. “Listening’s power, like that of smiling, is strong. When you listen well you not only make an instant impression, you also build a solid bridge for lasting connections. Who can resist being around a person who suspends his thoughts in order to value yours?” Carnegie asks this in order for us to remember how powerful listening is in strengthening our ties and advancing our leadership potentials.

It is only through listening where we can know other people’s interests. We listen not just to react but to try to understand and communicate.

4) Remember people by their names

“In the digital age, names are like company logos, identifying not only who one is but also what one represents—likes and dislikes, yeas and nays. The hundreds of millions of bloggers, tweeters, and Facebookers surely want their voices heard, but they also want their names known.”

When you call people by their names, it makes them feel good automatically. There is this magic in name-calling. When you remember people, they do feel important and would feel that you appreciate them so they can trust you and feel comfortable with you.

5) Talk about what’s close to their hearts

Carnegie says, “Once you know what matters to others through a practice of longer listening, you can then truly engage them by putting such manners at the forefront of your interactions.” When you discover what’s important to others, it is easier to talk about what matters to them. As you discuss and create new linkages, they will like you for your sincerity, charisma, and attentiveness.

Remember to always be sensitive and sensible.

6) Make a difference in their lives

“The real key to winning friends and influencing people today is having meaningful relationships. The only way to do this is by constantly adding meaning and value.” Carnegie highlights this line. Building meaningful relationships is the best way to be remembered, to be trusted. When people feel your sincerity, when they feel that you are truly reaching out and you value their existence and potential, they will never forget you. It’s all about meaningful bonds no matter what.