Top 20 Social Skills Every Tunisian Student Should Know3 min read

We have crafted this article to provide you with the top 20 social skills that every Tunisian student should absolutely know.

1. When meeting someone, give a slight smile, a firm handshake, and make eye contact. Always say ‘Nice to meet you’.
2. Remember people’s names by creating a mnemonic device immediately. And don’t ever tell them the device you used (or anyone for that matter).
3. Act happy to see people you know. Smile and be friendly, it makes them feel liked. Don’t just say “how’s it going” just to NOT say NOTHING. It matters WHY you say it.
4. When someone asks you a question, e.g. “How was your weekend”, always ask them the question back after you answer. Most of the time people ask you what they want to be asked. Almost every time, they did something during their weekend that they want to brag about.
5. Treat everybody you meet as equal. Truly charismatic people are friendly and get to know the doorman just as much as they do the CEO. Matter of fact, that guy probably IS the CEO.
6. Introduce people to each other. Most people want help socially, so if you know two people at a party that have something in common, introduce them and state the reason you are doing so. Plus, you will get credited with helping begin their friendship/relationship.
7. Always admit when you’re wrong/at fault. Nobody wants to feel blamed and they will respect your strength and humility.
8. Refuse to gossip or talk bad about anyone behind their back. People will respect you for this, too.
9. Practice non-reactivity. Having a calm, centered demeanor makes people feel comfortable and makes you seem like a leader.
10. Use touch to your advantage. A light touch on the arm or the upper back helps hammer a point home and also makes people feel comfortable.
11. Make eye contact. Look away every few seconds & don’t be weird about it, but you should probably make more eye contact than you’re doing now.
12. The sweetest sound isn’t someone’s name, it’s the phrase “You’re right”. Use these every chance you have:
    1. “I think you’re right”
    2. “I like that idea.”
    3. “I agree.”
13. If you disagree with someone, only say so after you compliment them in some way or say what you do agree with. This way, they won’t feel attacked or judged. And in fact, disagreeing in a tactful way builds trust and respect.
14. If someone ever mentions their kids(or their brother or sister), ask their names and what they’re into right now. People LOVE talking about their kids. And don’t forget to use #2 once they tell you their names.
15. Give compliments often. People eat them up like Couscous.
16. Don’t be afraid to share your opinions/stories/likes/desires. People want to get to know you on a deeper, more interesting level. Don’t be ashamed as long as they’re appropriate.
17. Ask people for favors. Makes them feel valued and strengthens your connection.
18. When asking for something start with “I need your help with something…” Makes them feel needed and even more valuable.
19. Ask people for their opinions whenever you can. They love talking about them even more than their kids.
20. Try to build people up whenever you can. Start building other peoples’ confidence, not just yours. Make them believe in their self. Override their self-criticisms and disbelief and encourage them to go after what they want with conviction and confidence.

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