Book Summary Preview : How to Win Friends & Influence People

Introduction

The author, a tireless reviser of his own work, states that the road to success and a better life is based on a person's desire to improve and master the principles of human relations. In order to achieve this, the key points and principles must be strictly observed and followed by the reader. The book is divided into four major principles.

Fundamental Techniques in Handling People

In building relationships with other people, different approaches should be done to make them work. Every technique is dependent on the type of situation that confronts the individual. Bear in mind that whenever a situation arises we must be rational and critical analysts of ourselves and of others. A sound and focused mind must always be present when conducting or applying the following techniques in handling other people. These three techniques are:

1. Don't criticize, condemn or complain.

Nobody wants to see or hear the work they did being criticized or worse, rejected. There are ways to inform people about your complaints without making them feel low or incapacitated. Condemning them won't make things easier. Instead, widen your horizons and understand them. In addition, criticizing, condemning, and complaining open oneself to the same criticism, condemnation, and complaints done to others. It is a simple case of human nature at work.

2. Give honest and sincere appreciation.

Having people compliment you or praise you for a job well done is always equal to one thing - a big smile on your face. And who would not want to see that? However, compliments should always be accompanied by honesty. Otherwise it wouldn't feel like a compliment at all; it becomes more like an insult.

Honest appreciation gets results where criticism and ridicule fail. Cease to think of your accomplishments and your wants. Try to consider the other person's good characteristics. Instead of flattery, give honest and sincere appreciation. . . .