The Positive Interaction Model

How persuasive are you?

That hesitation right there means that you have room to improve. Working with people is both an art and a science. You must modify everything to the situation and the person you are talking to, but there are underlying principles to making an interaction positive. As I discussed the art of conversation, and did my own homework on them, I learned that three consecutive parts make up a positive interaction. After using myself and the staff I lead as guinea pigs, a Positive Interaction Model was born.Three easy steps to accomplish one goal:

Have Fun--> Communicate--> Appreciate-->

A positive interaction is one where you got what you wanted out of someone. They told you that you were right, they did what you asked, they gave what you wanted, they bought what you sold, they thought you were cool. Every interaction we have with another person is tailed by an expectation or a goal. Some professional and necessary, some vain and superfluous. In any case, this model works and is really more simple than one might think.

1. Have Fun

Every conversation you have must start off with a pleasant and fun beginning. Having fun can range from starting a meeting with a fun, quick game for a group, or a smile and positive attitude when you approach an individual. When you smile and have a happy demeanor, other's attitudes are also lifted. This sets the foundation with a positive attitude and that you are enjoying life, so whatever comes out of your mouth will be positive too.

2. Communicate

 Communicating effectively is all about being thorough. Everyone learns differently, and no one likes to be yelled. Feed off your initial positivity and talk to them in the easiest way for them to understand. Try "flipping the classroom" and give them the opportunity to figure out your idea without having to tell them directly. Listen as well, you can't communicate with someone you don't understand.

3. Appreciate 
Communicating takes time, and someone just spent time listening to you. That should mean the world to you. Someone stopped what they were doing to listen, thank them for that. Show your gratitude for the sacrifice they are making as they do what you asked. Thank them for hearing out your idea, and then show them that you want their feedback. Give them a pat on the back for their efforts. All of this will motivate those you communicate with to continue being on your side, and to continue to give what you expect of them.

Don't stand in your own way of getting what you want. Communicate in an energetic, thorough, grateful manner, and you will see yourself moving up as a leader.

Put yourself in their shoes, you're relying on them to give you something. Imagine what it would take for you to do it if you were in their position.