IN last week’s column, we touched on some golden rules to be observed for maintaining good interpersonal relationships with others. This week we will explore further on more such golden rules.
Learn to listen
If you only talk and refuse to listen to others, you will miss out on a lot of important points.
It will also create a lot of chaos when everyone is talking and nobody is listening. Hence, learn to listen and you will benefit from it.
Respect those you dislike
You may not like some individuals because of the way they behave or act. However, you must respect them for they will surely have some strengths of their own.
Do not write off someone whom you dislike and treat the person rudely. Be willing to acknowledge the person’s good points and demonstrate respect in all your dealings.
Do not expect everyone to like you
It is impossible for everyone to like you. Hence, do not harbour this unrealistic expectation and make life difficult for yourself.
No matter how good you are, there will still be some individuals who do not see things your way. If you are able to be accepted by the majority, it is already a sign of being successful.
Be generous with praise
Encourage others by giving them affirmation and approval whenever possible.
Do not be stingy with giving compliments and demonstrating approval to others. You will not lose anything but only gain more friends.
Be wise with your words
Choose your words wisely when interacting with others. Say only positive things that you will not regret.
If you are in a big group, speak less to avoid getting into any trouble.
Be simple
It is not necessary for you to be fashionable. If you are not able to keep up with the trends, then it is better to be simple.
It is better than trying to complicate things and make things so sophisticated that you end up causing a lot of confusion.
Use constructive words
If possible, do not let ‘No’ be your response to others. You can change it to “I will try my best”, “This will take some time to do”, “I will give you a call after I have decided”, or “I am not certain about this” etc.
Do not turn down anything or anyone unnecessarily. A straight “No” will put others off. An indirect response will make others feel better and find it easier to accept.
Clap for all presenters
Ensure that everyone who gives any presentation, whether they are good or not, receives applause.
It takes a lot of courage and preparation for them to be up on the stage. Hence, we can encourage them by giving them some applause and appreciation.
Like yourself
Last but not least, make sure you like yourself. If you do not like yourself, you will not be able to establish healthy and good relationships with others. You will be too busy dwelling in self-condemnation and self-pity.
Hence, appreciate your strengths so that you may also see the goodness in others.
Priscilla Hiu is a career guidance consultant of Gracia Management and a certified behavioural consultant of DISC Personality Profiling System, Institution of Motivation Living, USA and Extended DISC Personality Profiling System, Extended DISC Northgate.