Written by: Ana-Maria Ciubota, Executive Contributor
Executive Contributors at Brainz Magazine are handpicked and invited to contribute because of their knowledge and valuable insight within their area of expertise.
You undoubtedly already have some great connections in your life, just as you probably have some unpleasant ones as well. They don't all need to be the same; in fact, having a variety of personality types within your group will be advantageous. When you want to surround yourself with positivity, it's a good idea to have these four sorts of individuals in your inner circle.
Smart people
Being around brighter people will encourage you to always be learning and to be interested, two qualities that are crucial for anyone who wants to thrive in business life.
Hard workers
Success is more than just being brilliant; in fact, many intelligent individuals exist who lack the motivation to succeed. A hard worker's hunger motivates others around them to do better, be better, and accomplish better.
Dreamers and visionaries
Both doers and dreamers are essential to the world. The visionary in your group is the one who will consider your craziest suggestions and always inspireyou to pursue your goals.
Positive thinkers
Nobody is always happy, but some people perceive challenges as opportunities, while others regard them as insurmountable impediments. You want the first sort of person in your life when times are bad.
How to develop and improve your social skillsin order to surround yourself with the right people?
1. Set goals to engage with others
Find ways to carry on discussions with close friends, family members, and co-workers, or try practicing your conversational skills by posing open-ended questions. Create a realistic goal for yourself to present at least one project or business plan at your subsequent board meeting.
2. Start in small ways
Engage with those you often engage with to start honing your social skills in subtle ways. For instance, if a checkout clerk asks you how your day is going while you're out shopping, you can respond with a question rather than a single word.
3. Ask open-ended questions
Open-ended inquiries may be a powerful tool for getting people to talk. It may assist you by providing insight and knowledge about your friends, family, co-workers, and even superiors. They may feel their views and emotionsare validated when you interactwith an open-ended question, which may improve the way you develop connections.
4. Observe your co-worker’s social skills
Observing your co-workers is another way to improve your social abilities. To start a discussion, pay attention to their terminology, nonverbal cues, and body language(such as smiling and nodding). Think about what makes your co-worker’s social abilities engaging and successful. You can use these insights as a guide and apply them to your own communication techniques.
5. Practice maintaining eye contact
Consider making it a point to make and maintain eye contact with each person you interact withfor at least three to five seconds. You may practice with a close co-worker with whom you feel comfortable. Let them know that you're working on maintaining eye contact. Practice maintaining eye contact with your co-worker during the start of the discussion, while you are listening to them talk, when you are saying thank you, and when you are finishing the conversation.
6. Develop your listening skills
Being able to express your own ideas and being an attentive listener are both crucial. By doing this, you encourage others to contribute their thoughts and opinions. Maintain eye contact, use nonverbal communication such as nodding when you agree, and ask clarifying questions when you hear something you don't understand.
7. Invite a co-worker to lunch or coffee
It might be scary to start forming relationships with others, but it can be helpfulto do it one person at a time. Find a co-worker who performs a similar job to yours and extend an invitation to lunch or coffee. Common duties or tasks might offer you subjects to discuss, but eventually, try asking questionsto learn more about them as a person. Establish one-on-one relationships with those who work in various departments of the company as you develop additional connections.
8. Offer genuine compliments freely
A great way to show kindness and gratitude for others is to compliment them on a job well done. They might serve as the start of or continuation of a dialogue. Be genuine; flattery that isn't earned might backfire.
9. Find social skills resources
You may enhance your social skills through a variety of online and offline courses, publications, podcasts, and tools. Look up to information on a certain subject, such as body language, networking, or active listening. Put your newfound knowledgeinto practice afterthat.
10. Keep up with current events
Keeping up with current events, trends, and news items may provideyou with conversation starters. Think about signing up for newsletters that are unique to your sector or local news to get material sent just to you. To keep conversations civil and professional, avoid polarizing topics such as politics or religion.
Conclusion
Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can have a positive impact on all aspects of your life, from your career to your personal relationships. When you surround yourself with optimism, you are more likely to adopt empowering beliefs and perceive life as happening for you rather than to you. Always keep in mind that you become the person you spend the most time with. You need to surround yourself with individuals who will push you while also inspiring you to succeed at new levels.
Ana-Maria Ciubota, Executive Contributor Brainz Magazine
Ana-Maria Ciubota, is an entrepreneur, author, beauty and life coach. She is the author of the Skincare Biology Guide ‒ How to Look & Feel Your Best, dedicated to all women around the world. Her unique approach to skincare biology has helped women of all ages achieve healthy, radiant skin, boosting their confidence and self-esteem. With a passion for helping others and a commitment to lifelong learning, Ana is a true inspiration to women everywhere. Whether she's coaching a client, writing a book, or pursuing her personal goals, Ana brings dedication, positivity, and a unique perspective to everything she does.
