How to Make Friends and Influence People...

Making friends and having a good influence on others is an important life skill.

Knowing how to get along with people at school, at home, or in your community can help you succeed and feel happier.

Here are some simple, powerful tips to help you win friends and influence others.

Be Friendly and Smile
A smile is one of the easiest ways to make someone feel comfortable around you.
When you smile, people see you as kind and welcoming.
Even if you’re feeling shy, a simple smile can help start a conversation and make others feel at ease.

Show Genuine Interest in Others.
People love to talk about themselves, and when you show interest in them, they feel valued.
Ask questions about their hobbies, favourite movies, or what they like to do for fun.
Listen carefully and respond with enthusiasm.
This will help you build strong connections.

Remember People’s Names.
A person’s name is very important to them.
If you remember and use someone’s name in conversation, it shows that you care about them.
Try repeating their name when you meet them.
Or write it down if that helps you remember.

Be a Good Listener

Many people focus on talking, but good friends are also great listeners.

When someone is speaking, pay attention, make eye contact, and don’t interrupt.

Show that you understand by nodding. Or saying things like, “That’s interesting!” or “Tell me more!”

Give Honest Compliments.

Everyone likes to hear something nice about themselves.

Give genuine compliments about someone’s skills, personality, or appearance.

For example, you can say, “I really like your drawing!” or “You’re really good at tennis!”

This makes people feel good and helps build friendships.

Avoid Criticising or Arguing.

No one likes to be criticised or told they’re wrong.

If you disagree with someone, try to be kind and respectful.

Instead of saying, “That’s not true!” you can say, “I see it differently, but I understand your point.”

This way, you keep the conversation positive and friendly.

Be Helpful and Kind.

Small acts of kindness can go a long way.

Offer to help someone carry their books, share your notes, or simply be there when they need support.

When you help others, they will remember your kindness and want to be around you.

Show Confidence but Stay Humble.

People are drawn to those who believe in themselves but don’t brag.

Speak clearly, stand tall, and believe in your ideas.

But also be willing to listen to others.

Being confident and humble makes people respect and like you.

Find Common Interests.

Friendships grow stronger when you have things in common.

If you and a classmate both enjoy video games, music, or sports, talk about those topics.

Finding shared interests helps build strong, lasting connections.

Say “Thank You” and Appreciate Others.

Being grateful makes a big difference in relationships.

Say “thank you” when someone helps you or does something nice.

Let people know you appreciate them, and they’ll enjoy being around you.

Winning friends and influencing people isn’t about being the most popular person in the room.

It’s about being kind, listening, and treating others with respect.

Follow these steps to build great friendships.

You will be a positive influence in your school and community.

Try them out, and watch how your relationships improve!

Chris Wilkinson.