The single biggest problem of communication is the illusion that it has taken place”. With these words from George Bernard Shaw, I concluded my speech at a recently concluded Workshop on ‘The power of Communication for Businesses’. Whether you are starting a new business or growing an existing one, I hope you will find this useful. The fact is that when you communicate, promotions occur, sales are closed, deals are made, and profit multiplies!
1. KEEP CLEAR. It is interesting to note that everyone is in a hurry, especially in the business world. It then goes to show that you are required to get to the heart of the matter quickly. Avoid the temptation to waste words.
Many people tend to have short attention span. Therefore endeavour to hit the nail at the head as fast as you can. Otherwise, your competitor would grab their interest within a twinkle of an eye.
However, always reinforce your message. Never assume that the person you’re talking to already knows who you are and what your business stands for.
2.KEEP CLEAN. Professionalism in business entails neatness. Be groomed and customers would be at ease. Keep your business enviroment clean. Customer care counts, so does poise and good reputation.
3.KEEP RECORDS. Yes, it is called business, but you cannot help being personal. You are better off when you remember people’s names. They, in turn, will remember you. After all, we all have an ego that needs to be massaged! When you acknowledge people through their names, they will develop a sense of belonging. In fact, they will begin to carry themselves as your most valuable customer, thus higher patronage. If you can, do add people’s name in addressing a message, instead of just; “Dear Sir/Madam”. Business thrives on relationships.
4. KEEP CONNECTED. No business is an island. Network, works. You need to constantly be in touch. Learn to reply your mails and messages as quickly as you can. Acknowledge receipt of important emails and phone calls. Provide answers to your customer’s inquiry, as soon as you received it. Failure to do so, he/she may turn elsewhere to satisfy the need. Getting a frustrated customer back on your side is like getting water out of a stone!
5.KEEP MOVING. The business world is dynamic. You should also should be able to innovate, create and consolidate. Never underestimate the power of training and retraining. Learn the latest business language and apply it. Key into new skills and opportunities. Embrace positive change. Be willing to move, motivate, mutate, update and evaluate.
Remember to always carry your customer along though.
6. KEEP CALM. They say that , ‘Customer is King’. Indeed, you must acknowledge the fact that you should always eat the humble pie when dealing with your customers. In any business, difficult situations will pop up its ugly head. Learn to keep your cool because losing your temper could mean losing your customer. Wisdom on the other hand, will not only show that you can handle stress, but also attract more business opportunities.
7. KEEP QUIET. ‘An empty cymbal’, they say, ‘makes most noise’. In dealing with your clients, you must appreciate the fact that Communication is a two way street. Be patient and listen to your customers opinion, observation, suggestion, even complaints. You learn more, when you listen more. Besides, It is rude to interrupt people, so be at your best manners. You should know what to say, how to say it and when to shut up.
CHIAMAKA BOBBY-UMEANO
