At the center of business and personal success are the relationships we develop and maintain. It's interesting that there is very little focus on how to do this well. Likable, honest individuals are much more likely to be sought out for new business than someone who has a reputation for being difficult. Focusing attention on improving your communication skills and relationship management can be the difference between success and failure.
In the business world, there is a new emphasis on "transparency". Transparency is radical honesty. Because such visible ethics issues that have brought large corporations down, businesses are trying to be more forthcoming with their customers and employees. Admitting fault and repairing the damage can actually make clients more loyal than if you'd never actually made a mistake! Honesty has been, and will always be, the best policy.
Eye contact is crucial when you are interacting directly with an individual. Eye contact indicates that you are listening and that you care. We've all been involved in a conversation with someone whose eyes are traveling the room. This makes the speaker feel devalued. Pay attention and look them in the eye.
People want to feel known. We all have a story to tell, but most of us are so eager to tell it we never ask other people about theirs. By truly wanting to get to know your customers or employees, you build loyalty and support. This also helps you root out problems early. Be of service and learn to truly ask and listen to the people around you.
Body language is a subtle, non-verbal way that people unintentionally communicate their feelings. Whether their head is tilted a certain way, their arms or crossed or they seem distracted, learning to read these cues can help you steer conversations to a more agreeable place. This is especially helpful in sales moments, but can be useful in all your interactions with others.
Be liberal with praise. Dale Carnegie, in his classic How to Win Friends and Influence People, recommended finding one thing with every person that you meet that you can genuinely praise or compliment. This is true with customers but also with employees. Recruiting staff is much more expensive than retaining them. Make it a goal to praise people once per week or more for their work, how they handled a situation or just their overall demeanor.
Always stay open to the input or criticism of others. By allowing that, you set an example for others and set a standard for honesty and accountability. Both of these help create strong relationships in both your personal and business life. Sometimes this small, but important skill set is what sets your business apart.
In the business world, there is a new emphasis on "transparency". Transparency is radical honesty. Because such visible ethics issues that have brought large corporations down, businesses are trying to be more forthcoming with their customers and employees. Admitting fault and repairing the damage can actually make clients more loyal than if you'd never actually made a mistake! Honesty has been, and will always be, the best policy.
Eye contact is crucial when you are interacting directly with an individual. Eye contact indicates that you are listening and that you care. We've all been involved in a conversation with someone whose eyes are traveling the room. This makes the speaker feel devalued. Pay attention and look them in the eye.
People want to feel known. We all have a story to tell, but most of us are so eager to tell it we never ask other people about theirs. By truly wanting to get to know your customers or employees, you build loyalty and support. This also helps you root out problems early. Be of service and learn to truly ask and listen to the people around you.
Body language is a subtle, non-verbal way that people unintentionally communicate their feelings. Whether their head is tilted a certain way, their arms or crossed or they seem distracted, learning to read these cues can help you steer conversations to a more agreeable place. This is especially helpful in sales moments, but can be useful in all your interactions with others.
Be liberal with praise. Dale Carnegie, in his classic How to Win Friends and Influence People, recommended finding one thing with every person that you meet that you can genuinely praise or compliment. This is true with customers but also with employees. Recruiting staff is much more expensive than retaining them. Make it a goal to praise people once per week or more for their work, how they handled a situation or just their overall demeanor.
Always stay open to the input or criticism of others. By allowing that, you set an example for others and set a standard for honesty and accountability. Both of these help create strong relationships in both your personal and business life. Sometimes this small, but important skill set is what sets your business apart.
About the Author:
With 30+ years consulting experience, Steven Schlagel provides training and coaching for startups, entrepreneurs and small business owners. Check his site for more articles to increase your success!
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