Greeting Someone

• This may seem obvious, but when someone enters the company of others who already know each other, it's highly important you greet him if the other person has not introduced you. People like to feel appreciated and welcome, and a greeting lets them know immediately that they are both. Try to greet the person with a firm handshake and direct eye contact if in the office or with a compliment on physical attributes or dress if in a casual setting. For either setting, try inquiring about that person's family or a recent event he experienced. For default conversation starters, try sports, weather or commenting on your surroundings.
  
  

Ask for Advice

• You may be too proud to ask, but asking a person for advice on a particular subject, be it work-related or not, is beneficial: You may achieve an answer or an insight you previously didn't have, and you inform that person non-directly that you respect and appreciate her opinions. This can lead to mutual trust and respect. If you are the one being asked for advice, don't attempt to provide an answer you don't know; this can lead her to lose trust in you. Instead, provide resources or any help you know of that can lead her in the right direction.
  
  

Turn Opponents into Confidants

• Because many endeavors deal with competition, it's important not to turn healthy competition into a means of producing multiple enemies. This can lead to downfall, as these competitors may have innovative ideas or new perspectives that will help your own ideas and endeavors flourish. Thus, handle defeat with grace and victory with humility. For instance, if your colleague's proposal was decided as the best move for the company rather than your own, offer a sincere congratulatory gesture, such as a handshake, and your support. This may make him a confidant and source of support for you and your endeavors later on. If your proposal won out, offer him a large part in the project's implementation. He was good enough to be your opponent; his innovative ideas could make your project better.
  
  

Be Courteous

• Being courteous may go without saying, but often you may forget to extend a small bit of gratitude that could go a long way. For instance, if you invited a new neighbor to the cookout and she attended, send her a simple thank-you card for her attendance and tell her you enjoyed her presence. This will allow her to feel welcomed and involved in her new community. In addition, invite others to future events even if you know they may not come. This too allows them to know that they would be welcomed and accepted if they attended.