Three Effective Phrases to Capture Attention and Build Trust
Want Someone’s Attention? Just Use These Three Magic Phrases from Master Negotiators

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Negotiation experts Chris Voss and Jonathan B. Smith highlight three phrases to gain attention and trust: 'You look important,' 'Is now a bad time to talk?' and 'Have you given up on [specific thing]?' These phrases help people feel valued and respected, making them more likely to engage positively.
- 01Chris Voss and Jonathan B. Smith emphasize the importance of making others feel seen and validated to foster cooperation.
- 02The phrase 'You look important' elevates the status of the person being addressed, encouraging them to assist.
- 03Asking 'Is now a bad time to talk?' shows respect for the other person's time, making them more open to conversation.
- 04The question 'Have you given up on [specific thing]?' can effectively re-engage someone who may have lost interest.
- 05Using these phrases can significantly enhance communication effectiveness and build rapport.
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Chris Voss, a former FBI hostage negotiator, and Jonathan B. Smith, an expert in negotiation tactics, share three impactful phrases that can help individuals gain attention and foster trust in conversations. Their approach emphasizes the importance of making others feel valued and respected. The first phrase, 'You look important,' is effective in making individuals feel acknowledged, prompting them to assist. The second phrase, 'Is now a bad time to talk?' respects the other person's time, allowing for a more collaborative conversation. Lastly, 'Have you given up on [specific thing]?' serves as a powerful tool to re-engage someone who may have lost interest, providing clarity on their intentions. By incorporating these phrases into interactions, individuals can improve their chances of receiving help and cooperation.
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