Part 2 of a 2-part series from Dr. John C. Maxwell Making an Impression vs. Being Impressed

Written by Ron Deering | 21 February 2010

3) Practicing the 30-Second Rule positions you for success with people.
Benjamin Franklin realized this truth when he wrote the following note to John Paul Jones: "Hereafter, if you should observe an occasion to give your officers and friends a little more praise than is their due, and confess more fault than you can justly be charged with, you will only become the sooner for it, a great captain. Criticizing and censuring almost everyone you have to do with will diminish friends, increase enemies, and thereby hurt your affairs."
When we add to others, they are drawn to our side, but when we belittle others, they withdraw from our influence.
4) Spend time creating an encouraging thought for everyone you know.
Before I meet with people, I pause to think about something encouraging I can say to them. This practice isn't complicated, but it does take some time, intentionality, and discipline. And the reward for practicing it is huge.
SUMMARY
Too many people, when in the presence of others, search for ways to make themselves look good. The key to the 30-Second Rule is reversing this practice. When spending time with people, search for ways to make them look good. Doing so uplifts them and ultimately raises their opinion of you as well.
Dr. John C. Maxwell