Life without good friends is like a body without soul - it loses its meaning and charm. Friends share our joys and sorrows. We can express feelings of our heart to a good friend. A good friend is our best guide in crisis. One of the greatest philosophers of the world Emerson called good friend a master piece of Nature.

Children, adults, politicians, writers, journalists, clerks, labourers or businessmen all need friends to make career and enjoy life. But having a circle of valuable friends is not an easy task. Making friends or influencing people, in fact, is an art and like other arts it can be learnt.

1. HOW TO START A CONVERSATION

Many persons want to talk to others but it is very difficult for them to start a conversation. They get somewhat nervous and sentences don't come up in their minds. Consequently they are unable to strike friendship with others. Such persons should keep some opening sentences in mind. After some time it becomes easy for them to start a talk and establish a bond of friendly relations. Several easy openings may be: i) What is the time please?; ii) Excuse me, do you have a pen please?; iii) Could you tell me which bus leads to....?; iv) Would you please guide me about the best eating place here? v) Is India going to win this match? etc.

2. POWER OF ADMIRATION

Everybody loves praise and recognition for his talent and work. Even the kings loved to surround themselves with flatterers. Poet wrote songs admiring their kingdom and good qualities. Today