The (Difficult) Art of Live Communication
[by Jenna Close]
I have a ridiculously potent aversion to talking on the phone. I’m pretty sure it’s some kind of neurosis, but here’s the thing…
Communication is the most important business aspect of what we do. Furthermore, live conversation (versus texting or email) is a powerful tool that can be used to great advantage. There were many things about communication that I discovered while struggling with the telephone. Sadly, they were not second nature to me. Maybe they are to you, but awareness never hurts.
1) Make eye contact, smile and use a firm handshake. If the person you are talking with is not in front of you, use your voice to convey confidence and friendliness.
2) Be conscious of how many times the words ‘umm’, ‘uhhh’ or ‘like’ come out of your mouth. Note if you repeatedly giggle, sigh or engage in other vocal tics. Watch your body language if you are communicating in person. Nail-biting, hair-tossing and outfit-fiddling are common. I have a bad habit of chewing on my bottom lip, which pretty much rules out a career in poker.
3) Leave the telemarketing to others. Honesty, clarity and sincerity are paramount. I can detect when someone is trying to force-feed me something from the minute they say ‘hello’, even if all I have to go on is their voice. You can bet others will as well. Yes, you are selling something, but aim to do it with class.
4) Pause before replying. Silence is OK, whether in person or on the phone. Remember to think. Especially when negotiating, this will work in your favor.
5) Lastly, people who chew gum while talking are unforgettable. And not in a good way.
Jenna Close is happy to converse with you by email, text, Morse Code, carrier pigeon or Pony Express. You can find her at www.p2photography.net.
One Response to 'The (Difficult) Art of Live Communication'
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Jenna,
So simple, yet so on target.
We all get so caught up in technology, we forget about basic human interactions.
Thanks for bringing us back to the simple, yet timeless art of communicating.
Gail Mooney