Talking to Martians
Hearing someone say, “we will have UI meeting tomorrow”, I stopped to ask, what does “UI” stand for”? The look I received was priceless – almost as if I were the Martian. But I did learn the initials stand for “User Interface”.
This was the case of the right-brain type of person talking to the left-brain oriented party. To avoid awkwardness in the future, a few communication tips are in order for you to more easily communicate with those who think differently from you. This points to both business and career as today, we encounter a wider variety of counterparts everywhere.
Mirror Technique
For five minutes at a time, in preparation for your next appointment or interview, practice speaking in front of a mirror. Notice how much of the time you are able to smile as you speak.Several attempts later, you will find yourself naturally smiling longer.
Smiles go a long way in building relationships and sales. This is a great strategy to use when misunderstandings arise. The problem is soon resolved and then all parties will be smiling.
Eliminate thought of right or wrong
The only emphasis should be placed on middle ground and solution. Using the old-fashioned mindset that someone is either right or wrong will disrupt the advancement of a sale. As long as agreement is readily found, that is all that matters, and allows for continuation of developing long-term relationships.
Empathy
Working to understand the other person’s perspective and past experience will provide great insight as to how you may best work together. Expressing kudos for accomplishments, and good wishes for future endeavors will encourage them to treat you as a team member.
Thank you
The phrase, “thank you”, is never heard enough and is always appreciated. Using a variety of ways to thank people goes miles on your behalf. You can express thank you verbally, via email, online greeting cards, or an old-fashioned handwritten notecard. Use a combination throughout your relationship with others as well as throughout the year.
Using these communication guidelines will have you enjoying the Smooth Sale!
Read Additional Strategies and Techniques:
Nice Girls DO Get the Sale: Relationship Building That Gets Results, Sourcebooks
HIRED! How to Use Sales Techniques to Sell Yourself On Interviews, Career Press
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