The Rebbe's guidance on how to bring another Jew closer to Torah and mitzvos (IK = Igros Kodesh letter number):
Every Jew can be reached. Every Jew has an inner spark of holiness that can be awakened (IK 3236); no Jew or community is ever a "desert" — each holds hidden treasures (IK 3196). Never give up on another Jew, however distant (IK 6158), and reach even the most distant (IK 316). Saving even one soul spiritually is like sustaining a whole world (IK 2755); every individual matters (IK 10145). Use every opportunity, even speaking at non-religious gatherings (IK 938, 597); a missed opportunity, such as at a world Bible conference, is a real loss (IK 6417).
A responsibility and a privilege. Influencing others is an obligation for every Jew, according to his abilities (IK 2678, 7284, 10143), beginning with one's own family and community (IK 570, 1391). For some, inspiring others is their unique mitzvah (IK 3188). Those with a platform — teachers, rabbis, officers, broadcasters, writers — should use their influence for Torah (IK 5044, 5471, 8005, 1621, 5846, 9033). Like a tree, a person with roots in Torah bears fruit in others (IK 135, 136).
Pleasantly and gently. A gentle, pleasant approach achieves far more than harshness (IK 4611, 2709, 6612, 6195). Gentle encouragement inspires lasting commitment where pressure does not (IK 3093, 1293). Encourage growth gradually, one practical mitzvah at a time (IK 1591), and be sensitive to each person's character (IK 5330, 5424). Begin with children and act out of love; gradual change will succeed (IK 2930). Make gatherings welcoming to newcomers (IK 3280). When someone feels embarrassed before you, that is an opening to reach out (IK 2407). Quiet encouragement can have great impact (IK 5390), and patience is essential (IK 5171, 6061, 7166). Avoid arguments during outreach visits (IK 7587); know when to speak and when to be silent (IK 6090); one is responsible for how one's words affect others (IK 6185). Sincere words from the heart are the most effective (IK 10539).
But without compromise. True outreach upholds Torah standards without compromise, while explaining them warmly (IK 3812, 3973, 4729, 8537). Spread traditional Judaism as it is, in the spirit of the Baal Shem Tov (IK 8573, 8609, 9595), and state the truth clearly when it is being distorted (IK 2798, 3588, 5907). Pleasantness and firmness go together (IK 3564, 4675); on zealotry and religious struggles, see IK 6563. Correct actions come before intellectual answers (IK 10511); answer questions about Judaism, and seek guidance locally where needed (IK 6500, 7017).
Personal example. The most powerful influence is personal example together with heartfelt words (IK 1345, 3420, 7758, 8655, 8907, 5785, 10761), and spreading Chabad ways is best done by example rather than confrontation (IK 7036). Sincere effort and personal example bring results even with family members (IK 10387). Reach women in appropriate ways, with sincerity and a positive emphasis (IK 2604); an avrech's wife influences her surroundings (IK 2272).
Study that leads to action. Learning must lead to action and to influencing others (IK 6200, 2380, 7020); influence in Judaism and Chassidus can go together (IK 1664, 5162, 7916). Where other Chareidim are already active, Chabad should not compete (IK 2470).
Youth and outreach work. On methods of youth outreach and the place of Chassidus in it (IK 4550, 1640, 10324); correcting improper practices in youth organizations (IK 8130); outreach to working youth (IK 8565); organizing outreach in Eretz Yisrael and in Spain (IK 5420, 10234). Feeling unproductive in outreach is answered by joyful action (IK 1726), and outreach must be strengthened with urgency (IK 5479, 3267).
See also: Jewish outreach – Spreading Chassidus; Jewish outreach – Opposition, setbacks and not seeing results; Parenting – When a child drifts from Judaism; Personal growth – Purpose in life and one's unique mission.