Think back to the last time you met someone who just clicked with everyone in the room.

It wasn’t because they were loud, flashy, or trying too hard. It was because they knew what to say and when to say it. 

These people have a kind of social superpower — but here’s the secret: It’s not magic, it’s strategy.

The most socially skilled people use specific words and phrases that instantly build trust, inspire confidence, and make people feel seen. 

And the best part? You can learn them too. 

Once you know these phrases, you’ll notice how they open doors in conversations, at work, and even in your personal life. 

Let’s explore nine power-packed phrases that could change how you connect with others forever.

1) “Tell me more…”

Exceptional social skills often boil down to one key ability: active listening.

One of the phrases they frequently use is “Tell me more…”. It’s simple yet incredibly powerful.

This phrase communicates to the other person that you are genuinely interested in their thoughts and experiences.

“Tell me more…” encourages them to open up, share more about their lives, and deepen the conversation.

This not only builds rapport but also fosters a sense of connection and trust.

But remember, using this phrase must be coupled with active listening.

It’s about being present in the conversation, not just waiting for your turn to speak. 

Genuine interest can’t be faked, so make sure you’re truly ready to hear more when you ask someone to “tell me more…”.

2) “I can relate to that…”

Building connections is a crucial element of good social skills.

People with exceptional social abilities have a knack for finding common ground with others.

They use phrases like “I can relate to that…” to establish this connection.

For example, I remember meeting someone at a social gathering who was new to the city.

She shared her experiences about the difficulties of adjusting to a new place, finding new friends, and dealing with homesickness.

Having moved cities myself, I could relate to her experience.

So, I said, “I can relate to that. It was tough when I moved here too.”

Instantly, a bond formed between us.

She felt understood and less alone in her experience. We ended up having a great conversation and became good friends.

Remember, when you use this phrase, you’re not just acknowledging their experience; you’re saying you’ve been in their shoes.

You understand their feelings on a deeper level.

It’s a phrase that instantly builds rapport and forges a connection.

But make sure your empathy is authentic.

People can easily sense insincerity. So only use this phrase when you genuinely have shared the same or similar experience.

3) “That’s a great point…”

When someone makes a statement or shares an idea, recognizing their input with this phrase can make them feel valued and heard.

It shows that you are actively listening and appreciate their perspective.

This phrase can also create a positive environment for open discussions and intellectual exchanges. 

So, the next time someone shares an idea or perspective, don’t forget to acknowledge it with a, “That’s a great point…”.

It could make a big difference in your interactions.

4) “How can I help?”

One of the hallmarks of people with exceptional social skills is their willingness to offer assistance.

They understand that helping others not only fosters positive relationships but also contributes to their own sense of fulfillment.

One phrase they frequently use is, “How can I help?”.

This simple question shows empathy and readiness to lend a hand, no matter how big or small the task may be.

Asking how you can help, instead of assuming what someone needs, also shows respect for others’ abilities and autonomy.

It communicates that you are there to support them, not take over.

So the next time you notice someone struggling or expressing a problem, try asking, “How can I help?”.

You might be surprised at how much this simple phrase can strengthen your relationships.

5) “I appreciate your…”

Recognizing others’ efforts and contributions is a powerful way to foster positive relationships.

This phrase goes beyond a simple “thank you”. It’s about acknowledging specific actions or qualities that you value in the other person.

This personal touch can make the expression of gratitude more impactful.

Whether it’s a co-worker’s help on a project, a friend’s support during tough times, or a family member’s kind gesture, acknowledging it with this phrase shows that you don’t take their efforts for granted.

Authentic appreciation can boost morale, strengthen relationships, and even inspire continued kindness.

6) “I believe in you”

This phrase carries a powerful message of trust, encouragement, and unwavering support.

Expressing belief in someone’s abilities can provide them with the confidence to overcome challenges and strive for their goals.

It’s like saying, “I see your potential, and I know you can do this.”

I’ve seen how this phrase can transform relationships and empower individuals.

For example, a friend was struggling with self-doubt before a big job interview. 

When I told her “I believe in you,” her face lit up, and she went into the interview with renewed confidence.

These four words can make a monumental difference in someone’s life.

So don’t hold back when you genuinely believe in someone.

Say it out loud: “I believe in you”.

7) “I made a mistake…”

Nobody’s perfect, and people with exceptional social skills aren’t afraid to admit it.

They often use the phrase “I made a mistake…” when they’re in the wrong.

Admitting to errors or misjudgments isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s an act of courage and honesty.

It shows that you are self-aware, accountable, and committed to learning and growing.

For instance, there was a time when I gave incorrect information during a team meeting.

Instead of trying to cover it up, I admitted my mistake and corrected it promptly.

This not only helped maintain transparency but also built trust among team members.

Using this phrase when necessary can help create an open, respectful, and genuine atmosphere in any social setting.

It reminds people that it’s okay to be human, to err, and most importantly, to learn from those errors.

8) “What’s your opinion?”

They often use the phrase “What’s your opinion?” to invite others to share their perspectives.

This phrase does more than just keep the conversation going. It shows respect for the other person’s knowledge and experiences.

It signals that you value their input and are open to learning from them.

Asking for someone’s opinion can lead to more meaningful and engaging conversations.

It can also help you gain different insights and broaden your understanding of various topics.

So the next time you’re in a conversation, consider asking, “What’s your opinion?”.

You might be surprised by the depth it can add to your discussions.

9) “You matter to me”

This statement carries a profound message of respect, care, and appreciation.

Expressing to someone that they are important to you can make them feel valued and appreciated.

It can strengthen your bond with them and foster a deep sense of connection.

In a world where everyone is striving to be seen and heard, reminding someone that they matter to you can be incredibly impactful. 

So don’t shy away from expressing it when you genuinely feel it.

After all, everyone wants to feel that they matter.

The power of words

Words are more than mere sounds or letters strung together. They hold the power to inspire, connect, and transform.

The phrases we use can paint vivid pictures, evoke deep emotions, and shape our relationships.

For people with exceptional social skills, words are their most potent tool.

They use phrases that resonate with others, build bridges of understanding, and foster meaningful connections.

These phrases are not about impressing people or winning arguments.

They’re about creating an environment of mutual respect and understanding, where everyone feels heard, valued, and appreciated.

So the next time you’re in a conversation, remember the power of your words.

Choose them wisely and use them generously.

After all, the right phrase at the right time can change a life.