How to Socialize Like a Pro

There are a few ways to "make people like you", in most case without even talking to them.

These things are not difficult, anyone can do them, and it will make you (seem like) a better person. People will notice and appreciate you for it.

Here are the 20 rules:

1. If you borrow money from someone, return it, even before they ask for it.
2. When someone treats you to lunch or dinner, don't choose the most expensive dish on the menu. Also, remember to treat them the next time. And if you can't remember it, then write it down. I have a list "people I owe something". Might sound a bit extreme, but you'll notice that people REALLY appreciate this.
3. Be kind and nice to waiters, cleaners, helpers, drivers, or anyone who offers you a service. Treat them with the same respect you would give your manager or boss, and you'll get respect in return.
4. Don't call someone more than twice in a few minutes, unless it's really urgent. But if they don't pick up, then wait until they return the call. They might have been sleeping, sick, busy or have something important going on.
5. Return calls.
6. Always keep the door open for the person coming behind you. It doesn't matter if it's a guy, girl or old person.
7. Smile. Your smile is a powerful thing and will disarm people. Also, smiles are contagious.
8. Listen and respect different opinions. Everyone has their own opinion and trying to enforce your opinion is never a good idea. Even if your opinion 'wins', that means that they 'lose'.
9. Never interrupt people talking. Wait until they finish, then say what you want.
10. If you tease someone, and they don't seem to enjoy it, stop it and never do it again.
11. Say 'thank you' when someone is helping you.
12. Don't break your promises, or don't make any if you're not sure you can keep it.
13. When someone tells you a secret, take it with you to your grave. They trusted you, don't betray that trust.
14. When someone shows you a photo on their phone, don't swipe left or right. You never know what's next.
15. Be on time. Take time management seriously, because time is actually money for some people.
16. Say "Hello", "Hi", or "Good morning" to people, when going for a walk.
17. Look at the person who is speaking to you. Look into their eyes and really listen with attention.
18. Learn (and remember) people's names. Their name is the most beautiful sound for their ears.
19. Put your phone away during meals, focus on your company.
20. When you enter a room, greet everyone. No one likes to be ignored.

Personal experience

I've been practicing most of these rules for a while now, and let me tell you, it really makes a difference.

When I encounter people during walks for example, I smile and say "Hello" enthusiastically, and they almost ALWAYS respond with a smile themselves. Even though it seems like a small, unnecessary thing, it will lighten up your mood, and it might also lighten up theirs.

Especially the "remembering names", "putting phone away", "listening to what they say" have made a huge difference. People respect you, they feel 'listened to', and you will get more value out of conversations and personal interactions. You'll create deeper and more meaningful connections with people.

Stupid example: When going to a self-service restaurant, where you need to choose which dish you want, and the chef has to put it on your plate - when asking politely, enthusiastically and with a smile, you're very likely to get a bigger portion!

Cheers!

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