Do you like learning new things? Me too! I actually crave learning new things. However, sometimes we need to take the time to remember the things we have already learned.

Sometimes we get too busy, or we take too much time to come up with the right words instead of just responding to the email saying, “Got it! Will follow up more tomorrow.” We have all been there. Having recently read, The Power of Nice by Linda Kaplan Thaler and Robin Koval (an unofficial required reading at Sutherland Weston that is often quoted, referred to, and mentioned by Elizabeth in a previous blog), it was a great reflection of things we have all learned, and as its title suggests, is about how to conquer business with kindness.

In just over 100 pages, the book is the perfect quick read to remind us that “nice” is indeed a very powerful four-letter word and that often it is not what we say or the work we do, but how we make people feel that truly leaves the lasting impression.

The book details six guiding principles of being nice that can change how you do business in a positive way, check them out below. However, if you are looking for a quick, enjoyable read where you might learn something new or reflect on something you have already learned in a reimagined way, I encourage you to read it in its entirety.

Pick up a copy or download the audio version on Libro.fm and support your favorite local bookstore. Added bonus: First-time Libro.fm listeners get their first download FREE. 

The Six Power of Nice Principles

1. Positive impressions are like seeds. Small acts send off positive energy that can affect how those around you think of you (and your organization).

2. You never know. The person sitting next to you in the theatre may be the sister of your boss. Or the owner of the company you’ve always wanted to work for.  Don’t assume a stranger has no impact on your life. If you treat each person you meet with respect and kindness, when you meet them across a boardroom table the next morning, things might go better than you anticipated!

3. People change. Junior members of a company grow to be division leaders. The cleaning lady will someday start her own business that needs professional help from accountants, lawyers, even an advertising agency. Where someone is today, does not mean that is where they will stay. Connections and impressions matter.

4. Nice must be automatic. Today, the difference between getting the job or awarded the project can be for reasons as simple, and as basic, as a small, but nice, gesture. When you practice being nice all the time you won’t forget to be nice when it may really matter.

5. Negative impressions are like germs. Don’t let a bad impression be what follows you around. The feeling you give others becomes your hallmark.

6. You will know. Being nice is about understanding the long-term value – to you and to the others around you. Niceness is a powerful force, that when combined with talent, intelligence, and hard work, can make you a very big success.