“They call me Mr. Tibbs.”
If memory serves correctly, this was the line used in the movie, To Sir With Love, starring Sydney Poitier. He was trying to bring order and respect to a tumultuous classroom. What does this have to do with business development, building relationships or even customer service, you ask?
On a recent appointment, I was advised to address someone as “Mr.” However, when the CEO introduced himself, he used his first name. This was in direct opposition to the instructions I initially received. When someone introduces themselves, those are their implied instructions on how you should address them from that point forward. The gentleman became “George” to me.
While Sue, the person who originally provided me the formal instruction looked uncomfortable, I was able to develop a peer-to-peer relationship with the CEO. Do not misunderstand – absolutely everyone in the meeting was given equal importance and included in the entire discussion.
Attention to every detail and addressing people as they wish will help turn your prospects into clients. So when you are networking or about to go on an appointment, listen for how they introduce themselves. You will close more sales and they will be a Smooth Sale!
