As I spend most of my time with leaders, sales and service professionals, these mistakes are worth highlighting, as they are totally relevant, blatant and easy to learn from.

I was listening to the some political interviews whilst travelling this week. Three politicians were interviewed over a period of 20 minutes, Everyone of them talked about “power”, how they were going to get into it or keep hold of it. They also talked about their respective group and party they represented and what their party needed to do to “win” and “beat” the others.

And politicians wonder why the majority have disengaged from politics and politicians are no longer trusted! 

It’s because it’s all about “them”; talking about power, winning and beating others as opposed to serving their community, their country and being prepared to do what’s right for those they serve (citizens, not political party).

All this talk reduces our feelings of trust in them.

So What?

In business and organisations people are making judgements on us – what they hear and see. Always talking about what we want and showing that we’re only interested in ourselves will reduce feelings of trust and desire to engage. If we want to sell, to lead and to serve, it is about others and they need to hear and see that.

When you’re in front of your customers, your team or anyone you deal with whom a relationship is important, remember:

• Talk less, listen more. Be interested in others and show your interest by asking, not telling.
• Be aware of the language you use. Talk about them, not you.
• Trust takes time to build and is quick to lose. Do your teams and customers trust you?

Welcome to my blog. My intent is to provide you with regular articles about selling, presenting and leadership.

My aim is to provide content that is thought provoking, stimulating and above all practical! I hope you find it useful, if you have any comments or questions, please do get in touch! 

Enjoy

David Maylor