Manifesting your Mojo

The truth is we’ve all already got it – In fact it’s the most powerful tool a human possesses.  It can get you the best table at your favorite restaurant, the raise you deserve at work, or the attention of that person you’ve been “dying to meet”. When Austin Powers uttered the word mojo it took on a sexual connotation that belies its true meaning and real power. In the dictionary Mojo is defined as ones personal magnetism or charm.

Research studies, published articles and opinion polls, as well as real life experience has revealed that personal charm is an extremely well valued characteristic in our society. People can say whatever they want about former President Bill Clinton’s policies or his personal conduct, but no one who ever met the man has failed to comment on his personal charm.

Exercising your mojo effectively will make you a stand out in a crowd and if implemented properly and sincerely it will leave a lasting positive impression on every person you meet. There is a very elusive set of subjective criteria that people judge others by and harnessing your mojo can catapult your business and personal life in an enormously positive way.

Recently I met with a business associate who currently has a very high level position at a television network. He awarded my company a sweet deal on a television series. When I thanked him for the work he told me that the award was largely do to our relationship. He said, “You were always so nice to me even when I wasn’t this guy, I never forgot that.”  Thank you Mojo.

Mojo is not a god given right nor a part of your DNA, it cannot be given nor taken away but it can be learned. Embracing and nurturing this characteristic is as important as your $150.00 highlights and your True Religion jeans. It is the art of letting someone else know that you feel good about him or her without asking for anything in return.

So how does one manifest Mojo? Here are 10 simple steps.

1. Smile and make eye contact. If it feels right say “hello”.
2. Let others know you are really listening by using your body language. Again make eye contact, tilt your head and give verbal clues like “uh-huh, aah, mmm or even a non-committal “really” in the right tone works!
3. Listen more than you speak. Super valuable tool. This should probably be #1.
4. Make slow gestures with your hands and arms to give the impression that you’re relaxed around them.
5. Dump your big purse or heavy briefcase, the less you carry the more you’re able to gesture.
6. Mirror the other person’s movements. So, if they put their hands behind their back you do the same — but be subtle – you don’t want to get caught.
7. Give the person you are talking to a compliment. Even the simplest expression will make them feel grateful.
8. Be sincere, unrehearsed and believe what you’re saying.
9. Be selfless. You should not ask for anything in return, not even feedback.

10.Finally, and probably much to Austin Power’s dismay, mojo isn’t sexual; it’s simply the warmth and confidence you exude.

Start off using your mojo on your family and friends, your waiter at a restaurant, or even the guy who hands you your dry cleaning. You will be amazed at how people will respond to you. Let it become as natural as your breathing as green as your grass. You will find that your mojo will be the most profitable tool in your interpersonal skill belt, be subtle and have fun with it!

Your Grass is Green