Recently, I met someone interesting at a networking event. He’s a real go-getter. On fire for his business and working hard. But his people skills sucked.
He momentarily preened himself as he talked about his own successes but made no attempt to learn about me.
He asked no questions, demonstrated no curiosity, and showed no courtesy as he quickly dumped me while pursuing someone else to (I guess) talk about how great he was.
He was a true “no-nuffin” – a person who says “no” to getting to know someone and really doesn’t know any better.
It’s unfortunate. I’ve been shocked by today’s lack of what used to be called “people skills.”
What are “people skills?” Here are a few:
- When meeting someone for the first time, smile warmly as you shake his or her hand while saying, “Nice to meet you.”
- When conversing with someone you just met, ask them questions. Get to know them by asking about their background, interests or what they hope to gain from an event.
- Be sensitive and aware.Most people feel a little awkward when they’re out of their element. It’s considerate to invite them to lunch or a coffee. It’s another opportunity to get to know one another and network.
Courtesy. Kindness. Listening skills.
They all add up to professionalism.
It’s paying attention to the small details that will cause many to say, “She’s sharp. Professional. And she knows her stuff.”
People skills used to be emphasized in the workplace because there wasn’t any technology (other than a phone or fax machine) that could connect people.
You had to talk to people.
You had to learn about a person’s idiosyncrasies and deal with them.
And if you really wanted to be successful, you learned how to persuade people to give your idea a chance by giving them what they wanted, which could be a lot of things.
Respect. Appreciation. Recognition.
People Skills Still Work
I fear that in the midst of embracing technology, we’ve lost sight of this very important skill.
Instead of talking with someone face-to-face, we now text them or send an email.
I bring this up because we all experience it. And it makes a genuine connection with someone even more special.
How to use this for your own business?
Perhaps recognize that even though everyone is busy, most people still appreciate someone taking the time to reach out to them.
You know that saying about feeling alone in a crowd?
It’s a real deal.
I think people crave connection more than ever.
And if you can figure out a way to do this with your marketing, you’ll end up in the winner’s circle.
There’s a bunch of copywriting strategies for making this happen. However, there is one thing you’ve got to do first before deciding on your message.
I’m currently doing this for one client. If you want the goods, just let me know.
Considerately yours…
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