Monthly Business Growth Tip - February 2012
Are you an Effective Communicator?
Having good communication skills is critical to help you be successful in your business and in your life. It applies to all of your relationship whether with your customers, suppliers or work colleagues. Regardless of whether you communicate face to face, over the phone or over electronic means, you can follow some basic rules to help you.
1. Enunciate clearly
Speak clearly and don't speak too fast. If you find the English language difficult get some training, it will help you. When listening to someone wait for them to finish their sentence and don't jump to conclusions as to what they may be going to say - it might be totally different to what you think they may be going to say.
Don't use bad language or swearing or make racist comments as this puts people off dealing with you.
2. Watch your appearance
Dress properly and make sure you look clean and tidy. You're doing business today and don't want to look like you're going to the beach. Clean your shoes, clean your teeth every day, have a bath or shower every day and don't be smelly. Brush your hair and carry a pocket comb with you so you can spruce yourself up during the day. If you have a problem with bad breath talk to your doctor to get it fixed. If you smoke, give it up as smoker's breath is foul and puts customers off dealing with you. Eat proper food and don't live on junk food as it affects your brain and you won't be able to think properly. Regular exercise is important especially if you are in a office all day. Walking is the best form of exercise and the cheapest. All very simple and easy things to do that will help you be successful.
3. Gain other peoples' trust
Naturally when you meet someone for the first time you are not sure if you trust them. Trust takes time to gain. So be open and transparent as to what you want and let the other party talk as well. Professionalism and consistency will soon win people's trust. And if you make a mistake, be honest and put the matter right as quickly as you can. People always know when you have made a mistake and they always know if you're trying to cover it up. Also show empathy towards people and seek to understand how they feel about problems they may have with your business. Don't assume you know what they are thinking. Another key thing is to never disrespect someone even though you might think they are very peculiar.
4. Body language
The way you act with your body says a lot about the type of person you are. Be careful that you don't offend people with this. Watch what you do with your arms when in conversation. Open arms and a smile is best. Folding your arms is a defensive posture and often shows you are trying to hide something. When a customer folds their arms it could be a sign that you may have said something that has offended them or they may be starting to become defensive. Also watch the tone of your voice - this can give away a lot.
5. Be Confident and Honest
Be confident and honest in your communications. Make sure you research your topic and be knowledgeable about it. If you don't know something about a certain subject just be honest and say so, especially if you get asked about it. Tell them you'll find out about that particular point and come back to them regarding it. There's nothing worse than making out you know something when you don't because every time it will catch you out later on.
Monthly Business Growth Tips Disclaimer
Important: We cannot be held liable should Clients act solely on the basis of the material contained in the Monthly Business Growth Tips. Items herein are general comments only and do not constitute nor convey advice per se. The Monthly Business Growth Tips are issued as helpful guides to our clients. We cannot guarantee that your business will grow if you follow the guide of the Monthly Business Growth Tips as many other factors that can lead to decline are not necessarily influenced by making one change to the way your business operates.