Sharpen Business Communication
Communication is at the core of all our relationships,
both business and personal. Business communication must
be aligned with the pace of our new world, or it is ineffective. We’re at the
mercy of our warp speed digital communication that
bombards us with messages we often did not ask for and are irrelevant to our
business activity.
Here are some important tips to improve communication
and break through all that digital noise and allow us to reach the intended
audience.
v
Pitching for Business?
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Ask the
right questions by understanding your customer’s needs.
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Communicate
professionally. Make sure written communication is proofread and has an
appropriate signature. Make sure phones are answered professionally and people
speak articulately.
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Schedule
and prepare well. Make sure you provide potential clients with adequate
uninterrupted time to speak. Prepare an agenda and share it before the meeting
so all parties can prepare.
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Communication
is a two way street. Express your ideas clearly but be sure to listen.
Silence can be a powerful communication tool.
Ask good questions to show your interest and involvement with the
customer.
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Follow-up
in writing. Give your customer an overview of the meeting and ask for feedback.
v
Customer Service
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Quality products
should be supported by equally strong communication with customers.
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Make
your customers feel they are a priority in your business.
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Make
sure if problems occur they are addressed and fixed.
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If
miscommunication seems to be the source of the problem use a different method;
make a phone call to replace email. If the issue requires more than a few
sentences to explain, call and speak with the customer personally.
v
Networking
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Communicate
confidently. Firm handshakes, eye contact, and smiles are important
communication signals.
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Have a
30 second “elevator speech” that presents an effective first impression.
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Speak in
a relaxed way that makes your audience comfortable.
Work on refining
these communications skills to maximize your opportunity for success. That is
my take on the subject. What is yours? Let me know.
gerry@polarisgroupmc.com
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