Build Trust Fast: Lessons from a War Zone Spy: JJ Brun

Show Notes

Communication Techniques from a Retired Spy
Why Deception Fails: The Rule for Rapport

Episode 289 (JJ is based in Ottawa) Repeat of episode #79

In this conversation with JJ Brun, we explore:

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  how a contact handler succeeds without “shooting your way out”

  
  


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  why names act as a fast track to trust

  
  


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  why deception breaks rapport and authenticity restores it

  
  


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  how to listen and observe so you earn better information

  
  


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  how to create a safe environment for someone’s real story

  
  


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  what to say when you can’t promise outcomes but want cooperation

  
  


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  how to adapt your message to different communication styles

  
  


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  how to “complete” interactions by finding common ground

  
  

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About our guest JJ Brun:

JJ Brun was a "Contact Handler" in a war zone in Bosnia Herzegovina. His official title was Director General Intelligence Strategic Debriefing Officer. He was there to collect information from the people. He survived and succeeded in his role of building a large intelligence network of local people.

Get your free copy of "The 10 Most Effective Ice-Breaking Feel-Good Questions" by sending an email to hello@TheRetiredSpy.com

Learn more about JJ Brun and his services at the website TheRetiredSpy.com

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Key lessons from this converation with JJ Brun:

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  mentally prepare for high-stakes conversations when you can’t “force” an outcome

  
  


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  treat names as a trust signal—get them right

  
  


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  avoid deception because trust is fragile and hard to rebuild

  
  


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  build influence through listening and observing, not talking

  
  


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  create safety so people will tell you the truth they’re holding back

  
  


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  use specific phrases that encourage openness and follow-up conversations

  
  


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  adapt your approach by recognizing personality/communication styles

  
  


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  complete the interaction by finding a shared link, like, or love

  
  

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Your Intended Message is the podcast about how you can boost your career and business success by honing your communication skills. We’ll examine the aspects of how we communicate one-to-one, one to few and one to many – plus that important conversation, one to self.

In these interviews we will explore presentation skills, public speaking, conversation, persuasion, negotiation, sales conversations, marketing, team meetings, social media, branding, self talk and more.

 

Your host is George Torok

George is a specialist in communication skills. Especially presentation. He’s fascinated by the links between communication and influencing behaviors. He delivers training and coaching programs to help leaders and promising professionals deliver the intended message for greater success.

 

Connect with George

www.SpeechCoachforExecutives.com

https://superiorpresentations.net/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgetorokpresentations/

https://www.youtube.com/user/presentationskills