Book Freak 149: How to Talk to Anyone
Leil Lowndes' 92 little tricks for big success in relationships
How to Talk to Anyone by Leil Lowndes is a guide aimed at helping individuals improve their communication and social skills. The book has 92 easy-to-use techniques for anyone who wants to become a more effective communicator in various aspects of life, whether it’s in a professional setting, in relationships, or in everyday encounters.
Lowndes focuses on the significance of effective communication and how mastering it can lead to more fulfilling relationships and greater success. She emphasizes the importance of body language, such as smiles and eye contact, as key components of persuasive and impactful communication. The author’s perspective is practical and relatable, offering real-world scenarios and solutions that readers can easily understand and apply.
The book is structured into easily digestible tips, each with a clear explanation and a memorable name. Here are four:
The Flooding Smile
“Don’t flash an immediate smile when you greet someone, as though anyone who walked into your line of sight would be the beneficiary. Instead, look at the other person’s face for a second. Pause. Soak in their persona. Then let a big, warm, responsive smile flood over your face and overflow into your eyes. It will engulf the recipient like a warm wave. The split-second delay convinces people your flooding smile is genuine and only for them.”
Sticky Eyes
“Pretend your eyes are glued to your conversation partner’s with sticky warm taffy. Don’t break eye contact even after he or she has finished speaking. When you must look away, do it ever so slowly, reluctantly, stretching the gooey taffy until the tiny string finally breaks.” This makes people feel you’re genuinely interested in what they have to say.
Epoxy Eyes
“This brazen technique packs a powerful punch. Watch your target person even when someone else is talking. No matter who is speaking, keep looking at the man or woman you want to impact.” This intense focus can make them feel more important and can be particularly powerful in romantic or persuasive contexts.
Hang by Your Teeth
“Visualize a circus iron-jaw bit hanging from the frame of every door you walk through. Take a bite and, with it firmly between your teeth, let it swoop you to the peak of the big top. When you hang by your teeth, every muscle is stretched into perfect posture position.” This technique is meant to make you appear more confident and dynamic.
01/16/24
