In a world that is moving further into the digital realm, it can be hard to find and create genuine connections with others — which is why leaders must constantly evaluate and evolve their soft skills. Embracing these words by Maya Angelou can help you start making more valuable and authentic connections in every aspect of your life — from prospects and customers to employees, co-workers and industry peers.

Start by reflecting upon how the things you say and what you do makes others feel. When you actively work towards making others feel great, they won’t forget you. So are your words and actions creating connections on a deeper human level?

Fortunately, you can build deeper relationships in every aspect of your life even when faced with limited time and resources. Start with these three strategies and you’ll be well on your way:

• Pay attention and actively listen to others: In a world where people are heard less and less and spoken to more and more, asking open-ended questions can leave a lasting impression.  Actively listen to how others answer your questions and you may be surprised at what you learn!
• Remember it’s all in the details: After you’ve practiced actively listening in your daily interactions, take the details that you’ve learned and put them into action! Keep notes about the personal details that you’ve uncovered so that you can personalize future interactions.
• Perform small acts of kindness: You don’t need to make grand, sweeping gestures to make sure people remember you (and feel good about those memories)! Sometimes even the smallest gesture of kindness or goodwill is what will help build stronger relationships.

Every day you have the opportunity to make someone’s life better, to make someone smile, and to have someone remember how great you made them feel. So in the words of Maya Angelou, “If you’re always trying to be normal, you will never know how amazing you can be.”