The only goal I have either for myself or the individuals I teach is that in every interaction the other person should walk away feeling much better for having met you.

I have personally found that there is no greater theme and tool for eliciting individuals for action, information, and a great conversation than the use of sympathy or assistance. Think for a moment about the times in your life when you have either sought assistance or been asked to provide it. When the request is simple, of limited duration, and

The discomfort was induced because you didn’t know when or if it would end. For this reason, the first step in the process of developing great rapport and having great conversations is letting the other person know that there is an end in sight, and it is really close.

True validation coupled with ego suspension means that you have no story to offer, that you are there simply to hear theirs.

For this reason, the first step in the process of developing great rapport and having great conversations is letting the other person know that there is an end in sight, and it is really close.

The best gifts are the unexpected ones.

When the request is simple, of limited duration, and non-threatening, we are more inclined to accommodate the request.

This technique would not have been nearly as effective if I was waiting my turn to interject my own stories. Remember, ego suspension is critical.

threading the conversation.