The 30 second rule

2. The 30 second rule: Within the first 30 seconds of a conversation say something to encourage the other person.

Instead of thinking of ways to make yourself look good when you meet someone, think of ways that you can make them look good. Before you meet someone stop and think about what you know about that person and what he or she might need. Encouragement instills motivation.

To apply this principle: Forget about finding ways to make yourself look good; instead, find ways to make others look good. Ask what positive or encouraging thing you can say to each person you are going to meet today. Give everyone you meet the AAA treatment: Attention, Affirmation, and Appreciation.


From: 25 Ways to Win with People, by John Maxwell and Les Parrott.