Mary was visiting a church when a young woman with a big smile approached her and began to talk. Mary was taken by the woman’s passion and friendliness.
The woman was infectious in her enthusiasm for God and the church. Mary wanted to get to know her, and so followed her into the young adult Sunday School class. There was something about this woman that drew Mary to her.
Have you met people like this? They are like magnets you just want to be around. They win you over with a smile or their passion.
This weekend, we are talking about how we can win people over and influence them. Along with being passionate, friendly, and smiling, our non verbal language can invite people as well.
For example, when you talk with someone, pay attention to their feet! If their feet are aimed at you, they are interested and listening to you. But, if their feet are pointed away, most likely they are disinterested or mentally not with you.
Of course, there are the tried and true ways to win people over—nod your head in conversation, use their names and be a good listener.
Listening is attractive. It makes people want to invest in you. And when you listen intently, also make eye contact. But don’t make 100% eye contact during your conversation or you come off too intense and maybe a little creepy! Instead, aim for about 60% eye contact during a conversation.
Most of all, you win people over when you speak well of them. Scripture tell us that our tongues have the power to build up or tear down. So let’s use them to encourage. People want to be around those who are positive. They will mirror the image you present.
Finally, the best way to win people over is to love them with the love of Christ. When your life has been transformed by Jesus Christ, you shine and exhibit the joy of the Lord.
That joy is present no matter your circumstances. People notice this. They are drawn to what it is in you that is making this possible. They want what you have.
“A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13: 34-45
Do people know you are one of His? As we love God, he fills us with his love for others. And that love is ultimately what will win people over.
How to influence and win people over
