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HOW TO WIN FRIENDS & INFLUENCE PEOPLE (DALE CARNEGIE) - Listening books
Jun 10, 2023
Dale Carnegie, author of 'How to Win Friends & Influence People', discusses the importance of interpersonal skills and the power of kindness and forgiveness. They talk about arousing an eager want in others, the significance of remembering names, and the value of being an attentive listener. They also explore the importance of making others feel important and avoiding arguments for better relationships. Other topics include admitting mistakes, the power of diplomacy and tact, negotiating, the power of a friendly approach, and the power of listening and sympathy in influencing others.
07:20:21
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Quick takeaways
- People have an innate desire for a feeling of importance, which drives their behavior.
- Appreciating and valuing others strengthens relationships and garners support.
- Criticism often backfires, while constructive suggestions and support promote personal growth.
- Genuine interest in others fosters connections and helps in various aspects of life.
- A simple smile creates a positive atmosphere and makes people feel liked and welcomed.
- Acting with genuine interest and kindness has a greater impact than what is said.
Deep dives
The desire for a feeling of importance drives human behavior
People have an innate desire for a feeling of importance, which is one of the key factors that influence their behavior. This desire for importance motivates individuals to seek recognition, validation, and respect in various aspects of their lives. From wanting to be appreciated in relationships to striving for success and recognition in their careers, this craving for importance is a significant driving force in human nature.
Giving sincere appreciation fosters better relationships
Appreciating and valuing others is a powerful tool for establishing and maintaining effective relationships. People respond positively to genuine appreciation and encouragement. When individuals feel appreciated, it boosts their self-esteem, motivation, and overall well-being. By praising others for their accomplishments, offering sincere compliments, and acknowledging their contributions, one can foster stronger connections and elicit better cooperation and support from others.
Criticism hinders motivation and engenders resentment
Criticism, particularly when delivered in a harsh or demeaning manner, does not lead to positive outcomes. In fact, criticism often causes individuals to become defensive, resentful, and demotivated. Instead of inspiring improvement, criticism can crush a person's self-esteem and hinder their progress. People are far more receptive to constructive suggestions and genuine support, which promote personal growth and motivation. Therefore, adopting an approach of understanding, appreciation, and encouragement is more effective in prompting positive change and fostering healthy relationships.
The Power of Genuine Interest
Genuine interest in others is a key quality for building relationships and winning people over. Showing sincere curiosity and concern for others creates connections and helps in various areas of life, from making friends to gaining customer loyalty. Examples include a sales representative who built rapport with a client by discussing stamps, a man who won over a chain store owner by asking for help in a debate, and a nurse who comforted a lonely child on Thanksgiving. Deeply understanding and valuing others is a fundamental principle of effective human relations.
The Importance of a Smiling Face
A simple smile can make a lasting impression and create a positive atmosphere. A smile communicates warmth, pleasure, and happiness, instantly making people feel liked and welcomed. Charles Schwab's million-dollar smile exemplified this principle, as it played a significant role in his success and likability. A smile is a non-verbal way of saying, 'I like you, you make me happy.' Dogs and babies are experts at this, and we naturally respond to their joyful expressions. By wearing a genuine, welcoming smile, we can make good first impressions and foster connections with others.
Actions Speak Louder Than Words
How we act and show genuine interest in others has a greater impact than what we say. People appreciate attention and kindness directed at them, such as remembering important dates, taking an interest in their hobbies, or helping them with their problems. By actively engaging with others, asking questions, and listening attentively, we create meaningful connections and let people know their importance to us. This principle has been utilized by successful figures like Martin Ginsburg, who encountered a compassionate nurse during a difficult time and felt deeply touched by her genuine care.
The Significance of First Impressions
To make a good first impression, it is essential to focus on others' interests and needs. By being genuinely interested, enthusiastic, and animated in our interactions, we capture people's attention and foster a positive response. The story of a bank employee who successfully gained favor by taking a genuine interest in his client's stamp collection showcases the impact of paying attention to others. First impressions lay the foundation for successful relationships and can open doors to future opportunities.
The Influence of Facial Expressions
Our facial expressions communicate emotions and attitudes that profoundly impact our interactions with others. This influence is exemplified when a wealthy woman, despite her lavish attire, failed to make a positive impression due to her sour and selfish facial expression. People naturally gravitate towards those who radiate warmth, approachability, and kindness through their smiles and expressions. The example of a hospital nurse who displayed kindness and understanding to a lonely young patient further illustrates the importance of positive facial expressions in creating a welcoming and comforting environment.
The Power of a Smile
Smiling is a powerful tool that has various benefits, according to psychologist Professor James V. McConnell. Smiling helps people manage, teach, and sell more effectively, as well as raise happier children. The impact of a smile is not limited to the visible response, as even smiling while talking on the phone can positively influence the conversation. The power of a smile can also be seen in personal relationships, as it creates a more positive and enjoyable atmosphere. Employers value a pleasant smile in potential hires more than prestigious qualifications. The overall message is that a smile is a valuable asset in various aspects of life.
The Importance of Remembering Names
Remembering and using someone's name is a crucial aspect of social interactions and can greatly impact relationships. People feel a sense of importance and appreciation when others remember and use their names. This technique can be used in various situations, such as business meetings or personal conversations, to make a positive impression and build stronger connections. Notable figures, like Napoleon III and Sigmund Freud, understood the significance of remembering names and employed this skill to their advantage. By making an effort to remember and use names, one can make others feel valued and forge deeper connections.
The Art of Active Listening
Being a good listener is a valuable characteristic that can significantly influence conversations and relationships. When people feel genuinely heard and understood, they are more inclined to appreciate and connect with the listener. Active listening involves giving undivided attention, showing interest in the speaker's thoughts and feelings, and asking meaningful questions. This skill can be applied to both personal and professional settings, enabling deeper conversations and fostering better understanding. Examples of effective listening include President Roosevelt's attentive listening to the concerns and experiences of others, as well as business leaders who succeed by genuinely engaging with their employees. By becoming better listeners, individuals can enhance their communication skills and cultivate stronger relationships.
Admitting Mistakes to Resolve Conflict
It is important to have the courage to admit when you are wrong and to do so quickly and sincerely. In one example, a person admitted their mistake to a mounted policeman who had previously reprimanded them for having their dog off a leash. By taking responsibility and apologizing, the person was able to defuse the tension and avoid further conflict. Similarly, a salesman admitted fault when a lumber inspector pointed out an error in grading. By acknowledging the mistake and showing understanding, the relationship was restored and business continued positively. The key lesson is that admitting mistakes is a powerful way to build goodwill and resolve conflicts.
Overcoming Traditional Beliefs for Reconciliation
In Chinese culture, it is often expected that older people should wait for younger people to make the first move, especially in reconciling relationships. However, in one case, a father who had been estranged from his son for years realized that he needed to break this tradition to pursue reconciliation. By acknowledging his mistake and admitting that he was wrong, the father took the first step in re-establishing the relationship. His class supported him in this decision, and he successfully reached out to his son, resulting in a new and positive connection with his family.
The Power of Self-Criticism and Self-Admission
One of the most effective ways to defuse a potential argument or conflict is to engage in self-criticism and admit when you are at fault. This approach allows you to disarm the other person and prevent a defensive response. By taking responsibility for mistakes and acknowledging the other person's perspective, you create an atmosphere of honesty, understanding, and mutual respect. This approach was exemplified by a commercial artist who admitted his error to a demanding client, and as a result, the situation was resolved smoothly and productively. Admitting mistakes not only solves immediate conflicts but also helps to strengthen relationships and maintain goodwill.
Understanding others' perspectives
To effectively communicate and win others over, it is important to understand their point of view. By putting ourselves in their shoes, we can better relate to their thoughts and feelings. This approach allows us to be more sympathetic, patient, and tolerant, and leads to more successful interactions.
Using empathy to diffuse conflicts
When faced with conflicts or disagreements, using empathy can help deescalate the situation. Rather than arguing or imposing our views, we should try to understand why the other person feels the way they do. By acknowledging and validating their perspective, we can achieve better understanding and cooperation.
The power of sympathy and kindness
Sympathy and kindness go a long way in building positive relationships. By showing genuine concern for others and taking the time to listen and understand their needs and desires, we can create a sense of trust and goodwill. When people feel heard and respected, they are more likely to be open to our ideas and suggestions.
Acknowledging Mistakes and Giving Suggestions
When faced with a mistake made by his secretary, Dale Carnegie begins by humbly admitting his own faults, praising the secretary first, and then subtly suggesting improvements. This approach allows the secretary to accept the criticism without feeling attacked. Similarly, construction workers on Dorothy Rublesky’s house were encouraged to clean up after themselves by her and her children picking up the debris first, and then praising the workers for keeping the front lawn clean, which led to them taking responsibility and keeping the area clean. By acknowledging our own mistakes and emphasizing suggestions rather than giving direct orders, we can effectively change people’s behavior without resentment or offense.
Using Indirect Criticism and Praising Mistakes
In order to change a stubborn general, the German Chancellor Prince Bernhard von Bulow began by praising the general's expertise before mentioning his grave faults, allowing the general to save face and become a staunch ally. Likewise, high school student Josephine Carnegie, Dale Carnegie's niece, improved her dictation skills when Dale used his own past errors as examples and began by admitting that he had made many mistakes himself at her age. By talking about our own shortcomings first, we can make criticisms more palatable and encourage others to change their behavior.
Influencing Through Suggestions and Questions
Charl Schwab, Theodore Roosevelt, and W.P. Gaugh all employed the technique of giving suggestions and asking questions to influence others. Schwab gave his employees cigars and politely asked them to smoke outside, avoiding confrontation and complying with the no-smoking sign. Roosevelt took responsibility for the controversial statements made by the Kaiser by praising him before indirectly suggesting that he should take the blame, effectively saving the relationship. Gaugh praised his secretary before humbly admitting that he made more errors than she did, encouraging her to proofread and take greater care. By invoking suggestions and asking questions, we can avoid direct orders and encourage cooperation rather than resentment.
Importance of Letting Others Save Face
It is crucial to let others save face and avoid humiliating them in front of others. This helps to preserve their dignity and improve relationships. For example, the General Electric company managed to remove an ineffective department head, Charles Steinmetz, without offending him by giving him a new title and letting someone else take over the department. Similarly, a considerate approach when reprimanding or firing employees improves their experience and the overall company culture.
The Power of Praise and Encouragement
Praising and encouraging others can have a profound impact on their motivation and performance. By acknowledging and appreciating even the smallest improvements, we can inspire individuals to continue striving for success. For instance, a leader who praised a dishwasher's potential and work ethic saw her transform into a confident and ambitious individual. Likewise, a manager who encouraged his employees and made the fault seem easy to correct, witnessed remarkable improvements in their performance and attitude. Using genuine praise and encouragement creates a positive environment where people thrive and exceed expectations.
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Listening books How to Win Friends & Influence People By Dale Carnegie
Next to health, people’s next biggest interest is human relationships: to understand and get along with others, be wellliked and win people to their way of thinking. This book serves just that objective. Although it was first published in 1936, its principles and insights are timeless and are still powerful today for any situation that involves people.
#howtowinfriendsandinfluencepeople #dalecarnegie #listeningbooks #audiobook #fullaudiobooks
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