The most effective leaders know how to connect with people. It's not about power or popularity, but about making the people around you feel heard, comfortable, and understood.

While it may seem like some folks are born with a commanding presence that draws people in, the fact is anyone can learn to communicate in ways that consistently build powerful connections. Bestselling author and leadership expert John C. Maxwell offers advice for effective communication to those who continually run into obstacles when it comes to personal success.

In Everyone Communicates, Few Connect, Maxwell shares five principles and five practices to develop connection skills including:

• finding common ground;
• keeping your communication simple;
• capturing people's interest;
• how to create an experience everyone enjoys;
• and staying authentic in all your relationships.

Your ability to achieve results in any organization is directly tied to the leadership skills in your toolbox. Connecting is an easy-to-learn skill you can apply today in your personal, professional, and family relationships to start living your best life.