Nick Boothman, best selling author of How to Make People Like You in 90 Seconds or Less, is one of my favorite writers.

He is an expert in face-to-face communication and was a fascinating guest on the Art of Potential radio show. (click here to listen).

During the show he shared ways to be socially smarter and has given us permission to reprint them. Here they are from his fabulous Boothman’s Boosts.

– Here are 5 ways to be smarter, socially when you walk into a room full of of strangers – in 90 seconds or less.
  1. Wear great clothes – more people will take you seriously (don’t over do it – don’t be better than anyone else)
  2. Head for the middle (popular people always go to the middle of the room in restaurants, parties classrooms etc.),
  3. Move more slowly than usual. People who move fractionally more slowly than others tend to get noticed and come across as confident and sexy. Get into the habit so it becomes natural: otherwise don’t bother.
  4. The three-second rule. Notice someone and within three seconds go over and say something. Do this several times.
  5. Ask “Talk-show” question. The best way to start a conversation is with a statement followed by an open question. “I hear Seattle’s a fantastic place. If I only had 3 hours what should I see?” Remember to give feedback.

Nicholas Boothman shows businesses and individuals how tobuild trusting relationships and make their words work for them.