Here’s a quick communication tip, based on my observations of some amazing communicators over the years. All of them shared a common characteristic, which is essential if you want people to REALLY connect with you.
Your undivided attention
In every instance, these masters of communication gave 100% of their attention to the person they were speaking with, whilst they were with that person. They maintained eye contact, nodded in agreement in all the right places and never once looked around the room. They listened a lot, and spoke a little. When they were with that person, they WERE with that person – 100%!
Some of the least effective communicators, like those you often meet at networking events, do the total opposite. You can see them looking over your shoulder for their next networking victim, as they say; “tell me about your business” or “tell me how I can help you.”
Business is all about people
Business is all about people and the way they feel. If we take time to show genuine interest in; our colleagues, our clients, our prospective clients and our contacts etc, we can massively improve our relationships and make business a lot more enjoyable and profitable. Notice I said; “take time to show genuine interest”? I know you are already interested in these people, but just like those expert communicators I mentioned earlier, it’s important to show people clearly we are interested in them and what they have to say. Let them know you are listening, with visual feedback.