If you compliment someone, they’re bound to feel good. If you thank them, they’re likely to appreciate it.
That’s communication 101.
Yet, it’s not always that simple, is it? With human interactions being as nuanced and layered as they are, crafting genuine, sincere communication takes a bit more effort.
Luckily, I’ve got some tricks up my sleeve. I’m about to share 7 phrases that can help you get on someone’s good side, without sounding like a phony.
Let’s talk about how to make our words count in the best possible way.
1) “I appreciate your perspective”
Sometimes, it feels like everyone is in a rush to get their point across, doesn’t it?
And in the process, they forget to listen. They miss out on the nuggets of wisdom others might be sharing.
But not you. You’re different.
When you say, “I appreciate your perspective,” you’re essentially acknowledging that the other person’s thoughts and feelings matter. You’re letting them know that their voice has been heard, their words have been understood.
And trust me, that’s more powerful than any compliment or fake praise. It’s authentic, it’s sincere, and it strengthens the bond between you and the other person almost instantly.
2) “That was really kind of you”
Being recognized for our kindness is something we all secretly crave for.
I remember this one time when I was in a cafe, engrossed in a book. The waiter who was serving me saw how immersed I was and decided not to interrupt me when my coffee was ready.
Instead, he left it on the table silently with a small note saying, “Enjoy your book and your coffee”.
That small act of kindness touched me.
So, I thanked him saying, “That was really kind of you”. The smile that lit up his face was unforgettable. He told me how customers usually don’t notice these little things and my appreciation meant a lot to him.
This phrase is not only genuine but it also encourages more acts of kindness.
3) “You’re onto something”
When someone is passionate about a new idea, acknowledging their innovation can be incredibly affirming.
It’s been observed in various social psychology studies that people tend to respond positively to having their ideas validated.
When you say “you’re onto something”, you are supporting their creativity and encouraging their thought process.
This phrase can inspire confidence and foster a sense of collaboration, making it a sincere way to connect with others and get on their good side. Just make sure you genuinely believe in the idea you’re validating, authenticity is key.
4) “You’ve really made a difference”
Recognizing someone’s efforts can go a long way in making them feel valued and appreciated.
When you tell someone, “You’ve really made a difference,” you’re not only acknowledging their contribution but also the impact it has had.
It could be as simple as thanking a team member for their innovative solution or appreciating a friend for their supportive words during tough times.
This phrase is empowering, and it motivates people to continue doing their best. It’s a sincere way of expressing gratitude and fostering positive relationships.
5) “I trust your judgment”
Trust is the foundation of any strong relationship, be it personal or professional.
When I say to someone, “I trust your judgment,” it conveys my faith in their abilities and decision-making skills. It tells them that I value their opinions and perspectives.
I’ve seen how this phrase can boost someone’s confidence and make them feel more secure in their decisions. It fosters a sense of mutual respect and understanding, making it one of my go-to phrases to build positive connections.
Remember to only say this when you genuinely trust the other person’s judgment – sincerity can’t be faked.
6) “You were right”
Admitting when we’re wrong is not always easy. Our egos often get in the way, making us reluctant to concede to another person’s viewpoint.
However, one of the most impactful phrases you can say is, “You were right”. It shows humility and respect for the other person’s wisdom and understanding.
It might seem like you’re giving up some ground, but in fact, you’re building up a lot of goodwill. People appreciate honesty and humility, making this phrase a powerful tool in your interpersonal toolkit.
Just make sure to mean it when you say it!
7) “I could learn a lot from you”
Everyone has their own unique set of skills and knowledge that they bring to the table. Recognizing and appreciating this can help you form strong, positive relationships.
When you say, “I could learn a lot from you,” it shows a willingness to grow and learn. It conveys respect for the other person’s expertise and experience.
Whether it’s a colleague who is exceptionally good at problem-solving, or a friend who handles stress better than anyone else you know, this phrase is a sincere way to show admiration and develop a positive connection.
Everyone appreciates being valued for their strengths.
Reflection on sincere communication
If you’ve made it this far, it’s clear you’re invested in improving your communication skills.
Authenticity is key in all interactions. It’s not about just saying the right words, but meaning them deeply. That’s what sets genuine communication apart from mere lip service.
The phrases we’ve explored are more than just tools for getting on someone’s good side. They represent values such as respect, empathy, humility, and gratitude. They reflect a genuine appreciation for others and a willingness to learn and grow.
As American author and motivational speaker, Zig Ziglar once said, “You will get all you want in life if you help enough other people get what they want.”
So next time you engage in a conversation, try using these phrases sincerely.
You might be surprised at how positively others respond when they feel genuinely seen and appreciated. It’s not just about being liked; it’s about fostering meaningful connections that enrich our lives.
Carry this awareness with you, let it guide your words and actions. Because at the end of the day, the most genuine phrase is the one spoken from the heart.
