Eyes Play a Major Role in Connecting

Making eye contact is difficult for some people.
And keeping eye contact is even harder.
But according to blogger Nagesh Belludi, "Our eyes play a major role in our interpersonal communication. The eyes express our moods and reactions more overtly than does other body language. By and large, observant people can attempt to understand our attitudes through the nature of our eye contact, our facial expressions and body language."
Nicholas Boothman, in his book, "How to Connect in Business in 90 Seconds or Less," says "Make eye contact and smile … it’s a simple courtesy and leads to a relaxed conversation. If you tend to be a shy person, this may be somewhat difficult for you. You may tend to look down or away when greeting someone. This can break the conversation right away."
"When you meet or greet someone for the first time, just make a mental note of their eye color. This simple technique is amazingly effective. If you are looking for their eye color you’ll automatically make eye contact for a second or two."
Read more tips about making and keeping good eye contact.

Transform Those Negative Thoughts

By Suzy Kridner
Career Specialist
All of us have negative thoughts at times.
On the tennis court, I think “I could run faster if I lose weight.” While that is true, I don’t think about the good shots I make, only the ones I missed.
Even the most positive person occasionally has negative thoughts.
Rule No. 1 in 10 Steps for Transforming Negative Thoughts into Positive Beliefs is “Don’t should on yourself.”
When you think I should be a better parent, a better wife, a better tennis player, you’re thinking your current status is not good enough.
A friend on Facebook posted this column from the web site, The Bridge Maker. It says should statements put our thoughts and attitudes in a box and constrain us from seeing other solutions. Remember, it’s a matter of balance.
Read other steps for transforming negative thoughts here.

Remembering names a plus

By Suzy Kridner
CBE Administrative Assistant
Remembering names is a problem for many of us.
I’ve just been introduced to someone and the name goes right out of my memory, or it was never firmly implanted on my brain’s hard drive.
Despite all the articles I’ve read, and seminars I’ve attended, it’s still difficult to remember a name. And it doesn’t get easier as we age.
My husband and I have a pact. We don’t get upset when we meet someone we know but don’t introduce him or her to our spouse.
We know it’s because we can’t remember the person’s name.
I’m really appreciative of a co-worker I wanted to introduce to someone at a business function recently. When I asked her, do you know “John Smith?” she immediately said “No,” and gave her name, “Hello, I’m Mary Jones.” We all have mental blocks at times.
But for job seekers or business owners, remembering someone’s name is crucial.
The following article tells why we forget people’s names and suggestions on how to remember them. Read more here.