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JF's avatar

Another key is to maintain a lack of belligerence, which is hard when the other side is overly endowed. That’s what has made this forum such a pleasure. Unfortunately it’s so rare.

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Deutschmeister's avatar

Yes. I've seen ample cases where coming on too strong turns people off and becomes counterproductive. The key is to listen as much as you talk and to have a civil, give-and-take discussion, and to not fly off the handle if someone sees the details differently. I've gotten flexibility out of people by simply stating, "You make a fair point. But I've also found that ...". The truth usually wins out in the end if people are willing to hear it.

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Dave Yell's avatar

I used to meet with customers daily (often with total strangers).Observe and listen.What are their likes and dislikes.Treat them as best friends. Then you can talk.

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JF's avatar

I try to see it as an opportunity for personal growth, to avoid responding in kind. I’m not sure how I’d rate myself so far. I live remotely and don’t have many contacts with MAGAs in order to practice. I did have one, a couple years ago that evolved into actual friendship for a while, but it turned out there were hidden mental health issues, stemming from childhood abuse, and it ended badly. So, not a representative sample!

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