The ability to evoke sympathy in others is an essential part of every successful manager’s skill set. Effective leadership largely depends on how well a manager can connect with the people they speak to and whether they can gain their sympathy. Fortunately, there are several simple psychological techniques that can help you gain the sympathy of the person you are speaking or negotiating with and thus become a more effective leader.
Mirroring gestures
According to an article on LinkedIn Pulse, mirroring gestures is one of the simplest yet most effective tools for subconsciously showing someone that you are on the same wavelength. If the other person uses certain hand movements while speaking, do the same. If they nod their head when something is said that they agree with, nod as well. It may sound trivial, but on a subconscious level this technique has a very strong effect.
Telling a similar story
In order to show you understand on an emotional level what the other person is going through, tell a story that is similar to their current situation. Ideally, it should be a story about yourself that the other person can relate to and thus recognise that you have a lot in common.
Using similar expressions, phrases and metaphors
A proven way to show another person that you are on the same wavelength is to use the same expressions and phrases they use. Don't try to impress them with jargon or words they don't understand; instead, temporarily adopt their vocabulary. You will thus show you are cut from the same cloth and automatically gain their sympathy.
Repeating what the other person said
Whenever the other person says or explains something, don't respond immediately. First, summarise in your own words what they said. This will not only confirm that you have understood them properly, but also create a stronger bond between the two of you.
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