Category: Customer Service

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You May Be Listening But Are You Hearing?

Listen To The Listening Bronze To Listen Sculpture
Creative Commons Zero CCO

“Effective communication is 20% what you know and 80% how you feel about what you know.” – Jim Rohn

Listening is a key component of successful and effective communication between any two or more humans. How often do we hear ‘debates’ on radio or TV where there is an almost total absence of listening. So often these exchanges are marked and fuelled by an apparent compulsion by participants to talk, often to the extent of going completely off topic.

I’ll leave it to psychologists to analyse the reasons why this phenomenon is so prevalent. My focus here is on the positive benefits of learning to listen. Doing so enables us to hear not just what is being said but also the tone and intent behind them. We can also learn to listen for what is being omitted, whether intentionally or otherwise.

“But behaviour in the human being is sometimes a defence, a way of concealing motives and thoughts, as language can be a way of hiding your thoughts and preventing communication.” – Abraham Maslow

Albert Mehrabians oft misquoted study refers to the percentages of understanding and congruency in conversations with a strong emotional content. His breakdown of 38%, 55% and 7% relates to tone and syntax, body language, and the words themselves. Too often we focus our attention on the words and allow ourselves to be distracted and even misdirected. It then becomes easy to miss the incongruencies in the mix of body language etc, especially if the speaker is eloquent, or more technologically competent than we are.

“The more elaborate our means of communication, the less we communicate.” – Joseph Priestley

It requires confidence, awareness and willingness to listen with care. Whether in interviews, negotiations or sales processes the potential misdirections are plentiful. Extending our listening skills beyond our ears and intellect to ‘whole body listening’ helps greatly. Aligning all our faculties enables us to hear what is said, the intention behind it and what is left unsaid. Having a more complete picture allows us to give a much more informed response.

Start practicing by putting your feet on the ground and rest your hands on your thighs. Pay attention to your breath both in and out, and focus on the rhythm. Briefly scan your body from head to toe for any areas of tension. Gently roll/shake any such areas to begin a relaxation process – it won’t all happen at once but you’re making a start. Repeat daily for even 5 minutes at a time and you’ll see obvious benefits. Cultivating the awareness of your own body and its signals will increase your alertness for incongruencies in those you’re interviewing/negotiating with.

Relaxed alertness without straining facilitates a deeper level of understanding and is a means to differentiating between clear and hopeful decisions, leading to better deals!

If you like this article feel free to share it.

Joseph McGuire is the owner of Clearsight Communications who provide personal evaluation services and training in the areas of senior level recruitment/promotion, negotiations, sales communications and HR. He is also the author of the recently published book  Face Facts:The Art of Reading Your Clients and Prospects for Sales, Negotiation and Recruitment’. Now available:

https://clearsightcommunications.com/face-facts-book

Individual consultation sessions are available both in person and via Skype. He is also in demand for group training and presentations, private functions and conferences. Contact: joseph@clearsightcommunications.com

Or call: + 353-(0)87-246 1853

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My Journey to Becoming an Author

Full book cover demo

A book is not a book! Well it is to the reader, but to the author it represents two journeys. It is both the end point of one and the beginning of a new one. It’s the emergence into the light of a new day with a badge of achievement and a newly minted identity.

For some the journey to authorship may be smooth sailing, but for others it is like a Masters from the University of Blood, Sweat and Tears – thanks Dave Russell! My parents introduced me to the joys of reading via comics and library books at an early age. Whether it was fiction, comedy, social history, history, travel journals, biographies or even anthropology I became voracious in my reading habits. However alongside the joy it was an attempt to find keys to understanding a world that had me confused and bewildered, and left me floundering in my attempts to make sense of things.

Over time as a young man growing I developed a façade of toughness to hide behind. The confusion and sense of not belonging built and hardened the shell from the inside to a point of deep emotional incapacity and increased feelings of isolation. I was functioning but certainly not thriving. School results were fine until a point where they simply fell apart, and I had no idea why.

My English teacher up to Inter – now Junior – Certificate level, the late J.J. Murphy inspired in me a desire to write, and as I grew I developed a small network of pen pals around the globe. Our hand written letters allowed us to share our philosophical musings and provided a private refuge from the world. With the advent of the internet the letter writing dropped away, and email never offered the same degree of connection to one’s own inner processes.

Some years ago my then partner and I visited an astrologer together. As soon as we sat down he turned to her and asked “Has he written it yet?” On one level it was very affirming that someone else, however he did it, could connect to my love of and capacity to write. On another it triggered feelings of despair and absolute desolation. It brought back a multitude of memories from childhood of being told what I should do or be capable of doing, and the young me silently screaming “But I don’t know how! Please listen!” I was never beaten or abused, and it is not to compare my story with others. It’s simply that my abiding perception was of being abandoned by life and of being utterly ill equipped and uninformed.

Many years later we arrive at a book. There’s very little of my story in the book as it is not relevant in what is a practical communication manual. For me though, as the author, the book is not a book. It reflects a journey into belief, self-acceptance, deep self-confidence and a desire and capacity to engage and share with the world. So much of that is down to the façade of toughness crumbling as my life fell apart and a group of very special friends helped me rebuild and learn to truly value myself.  I’ve learned that in life timing is everything. I was faced with stark choices, and am beyond grateful for the rock-solid loving support I received, and for the fact that despite how I felt I was ready to receive.

So a book is not a book. For me it’s a rebirth and an emergence into the world with solid confidence and a new – and rapidly expanding – appreciation of the myriad joys that life offers.

If you like this article feel free to share it.

Joseph McGuire is the owner of Clearsight Communications who provide personal evaluation services and training in the areas of senior level recruitment/promotion, negotiations, sales communications and HR. He is also the author of the soon to be published book ‘Face Facts:The Art of Reading Your Clients and Prospects for Sales, Negotiation and Recruitment’. Individual consultation sessions are available both in person and via Skype. He is also in demand for group presentations, private functions and conferences. Contact: joseph@clearsightcommunications.com

Or call: + 353-(0)87-246 1853

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Looking Beyond the Suits and Smiles

‘All that glisters is not gold’ – quote from The Merchant of Venice by William Shakespeare

Business smiles

Even with the growing popularity of workplace changes such as Casual Friday there is still an overwhelming tendency for business professionals at all levels to wear suits and more formal clothing. For some it is due to tradition, and for others it is an indication of status. Many are impressed and even intimidated by the outer appearance and fail to look beyond the surface.

In reality clothing and jewellery can serve as distractions, while labels and logos are often decoys – serving the phenomenon known as ‘peacocking’. Regardless of the context, when we meet another human being it is vital we learn to look ‘behind the veil’. In many cases, like Dorothy in the Wizard of Oz we may find the real figure is anything but impressive or substantial. To negotiate, recruit or build successful long term business relationships we need to take a calm clear look at the person, not their outer appearance.

In particular I strongly recommend you pay close attention to the eyes. Making eye contact and reading the eyes provides us with key information about each individual we meet. Confidence, happiness, deception, evasion,sadness, depression, vitality, and low energy are all visible if we allow ourselves to see. We should especially be alert to spot warmth, coldness or even an absence of emotion. The latter two qualities give immediate cause for concern in any putative business relationship!

There is an old saying that ‘The eyes are the windows to the soul’. Without being too metaphysical we can gain greatly by simply opening our eyes to see what is revealed in clear sight, thus strengthening our position in all interactions.

If you like this article feel free to share it.

Joseph McGuire is the owner of Clearsight Communications who provide personal evaluation services and training in the areas of senior level recruitment/promotion, negotiations, sales communications and HR. He is also the author of the soon to be published book ‘Face Facts:The Art of Reading Your Clients and Prospects for Sales, Negotiation and Recruitment’.Individual consultation sessions are available both in person and via Skype. He is also in demand for group presentations, private functions and conferences.

For further information email: info@clearsightcommunications.com

Or call: + 353-(0)87-246 1853

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How Is Your Sales Team Performing?

Sales handshake

“Make a customer, not a sale.” – Katherine Barchetti

You have targets and quotas. You have current and potential customers, but sales figures are not meeting your expectations. Some of your team are doing superbly but others are under-performing. You like them as people and you know they have potential – and in today’s climate you can’t easily fire them!

The training they’ve had has brought limited results. One probable issue is that they’re using a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach and treating each customer the same way. When we see things through the customer’s eyes we increase our chances of success. It’s not simply a question of price or want but rather of understanding their perspective and outlook. Give them the information they way they need to receive it and you open the door to success. You also sow the seeds for a successful long-term business relationship.

“It’s not about having the right opportunities. It’s about handling the opportunities right.” –Mark Hunter

Learning to recognize small but significant differences in each person and respond accordingly brings a change in results. With new skills your salesperson achieves more and exudes greater confidence. You’re happier as profits rise and your customers get better service.

Key visual cues provide insights into the personality and behaviour style of each customer. These cues reveal how best to communicate with your customer – and potential customer – as an individual. Learning those details and how to use them well makes a big difference to your bottom line.

“Joseph’s unique skill clearly has an extensive range of applications for any person or business, a very powerful tool with immediate commercial benefits” – Stuart Sheehy (Financial Controller and Chartered Accountant)

When you’re ready to upskill your team in a way that makes a lasting difference call Clearsight Communications. We offer a range of training options to meet your needs and boost your sales.

Joseph McGuire is the owner of Clearsight Communications who provide personal evaluation services and training in the areas of senior level recruitment/promotion, negotiations, sales and HR. Individual consultation sessions are available both in person and via Skype. He is also in demand for group presentations, private functions and conferences. For further information email: info@clearsightcommunications.com

Or call: + 353-(0)87-246 1853

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6 Visual Communication Tips – Watch the Eyebrows

Eyebrows

“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion it has taken place” – George Bernard Shaw

To offer an exceptional product or service is one thing, to communicate effectively about it is another. Just as a tailor takes careful measurements before making a suit so should we take into account the personality and behaviour style of our potential (and current) clients. No matter what our product or service offers we can be sure we’re competing with someone or something else. There will be several considerations for the client and understanding not just their priorities but their perspective will help give us an edge.

Recent research at the University of York into the role of eyebrows in human development indicates their primary role has been in communication. We use various movements of the eyebrows to express feelings and responses such as surprise, openness to engaging, sympathy and a great deal more. It isn’t only those movements which transmit signals as static eyebrows also provide a great deal of information. In particular they tell about how we receive and process information, how we engage with others and our approach to work. Here are 6 examples to be aware of when you want to ensure you get your message across to best effect:

The Unibrow

Ronnie O'Sullivan eyebrows 1

The Unibrow indicates a very busy mind. Those possessed of one are likely to be emotionally cautious and slow to trust. When dealing with them be patient and consistent, and be prepared for lots of questions. Be sure to follow through on all agreements as they will remember any instance where they have been let down, and they tend to be slow to forgive. They may also have very definite opinions so be prepared to have a number of meetings before you see any signs of progress.

Overhanging Eyebrows

MittRomney eyebrows

Eyebrows sitting close to the eyes are a sign of a mind which reacts quickly, even impatiently. They’re often likely to interrupt before you’ve finished speaking, and are not always diplomatic! Be prepared for questions which may not relate directly to your offering, and to direct the conversation back to its central theme – you may need to do this frequently. Above all be clear and speak fast as slow rambling speech will cause them to lose interest swiftly. Note that if the eyebrows move downwards towards the eyes while you are speaking the other party has stopped listening and is preoccupied with what they want to say. Be alert for this signal!

Inverted V

Larry_Ellison_eyebrows picture

The inverted or upside down V, or the eyebrow angled downwards towards the inner corner of the eye is a sign of an autocratic nature. These people expect to be in charge, and expect their instructions to be carried out as directed. Patience is not their strong point. When dealing with them be sure you are thoroughly prepared. Even when you are they may well point out flaws in your proposition, and do so in a very direct manner. Either way you may expect a quick decision as they have no time for prevarication. Be sure to do a thorough background check on how others have dealt successfully with them in the past.

Straight Eyebrows

Bill Gates eyebrows 1

When the main body of the eyebrow is quite straight we can tell that this individual has an analytical mind. When speaking to them all information should be presented in a logical and structured fashion. Details are important to them and they have little interest in ‘touchy feely’ unless they can see practical application. The thicker the eyebrow the more information they will comfortably absorb at one time.

Upright Hairs

BradPitt eyebrows crop

A cluster of upright hairs at the beginning of the eyebrows tells us this is someone who will quickly spot the potential problems in a new proposition or project, and is likely to point them out. They can be invaluable to have around if you want an honest verdict before taking your product or service to market. Your ego may not like it but their input is invariably practical.

Curved Eyebrows

Julia_Louis-Dreyfus_eyebrows VF_2012_Shankbone_3

Curved eyebrows reflect a more person oriented outlook. This is a time for demonstrating so called ‘soft skills’ such as empathy. Showing that you are genuinely interested in them and their viewpoint will at least open the door to a meaningful discussion. Take time, avoid being pushy and allow trust to build.

I’m frequently asked about women tweaking or treating their eyebrows and how that impacts on what I see. Any cosmetic alteration is seen as an external manifestation of a desire for internal change. We can often see where the changes have been made as well as the results. Even simply seeing the results reveals the aspirations, and the eyes themselves tell whether those aspirations have been met.

Studies have shown that those repeatedly using Botox are not only less expressive in their features but also tend to be less willing to engage on a deeper level. Food for thought!

Joseph McGuire is the owner of Clearsight Communications who provide personal evaluation services and training in the areas of senior level recruitment/promotion, negotiations, sales and HR. Individual consultation sessions are available both in person and via Skype. He is also in demand for group presentations, private functions and conferences. For further information email: info@clearsightcommunications.com

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Introductions: Your Handshake Speaks Volumes

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“I have always been an honest trader. I come from a school of traders where there was honour in the deal. No contracts, just a handshake and that’s it, done. That’s the way I prefer to do business but it’s not always possible these days, sadly.” – Lord Alan Sugar

On meeting one of the first things we normally do is shake hands. Whether or not we are conscious of it how we do so offers a distinct first impression of our personality. In essence there are 4 types of handshake with a few sub-variations. Whatever your handshake it should only last as long as it takes to greet each other. Do remember also to always make eye contact when shaking hands. Failure to do so may be taken as a sign that you are being evasive!

The Bonecrusher – I know of at least one case where this actually happened and a petite and very polite woman suffered broken fingers. This handshake is invariably given by those who see themselves as dominant males. It shows little awareness or appreciation of the wellbeing or needs of others. Those who shake hands like this expect attention and even acquiescence. They also tend to prioritise doing business over small talk, and making decisions quickly.

In some cases – notably among political leaders – they will use the double handed grip to demonstrate that they are in charge! They may also favour the palm downwards variation which again is intended to reflect dominance. Both are widely regarded as unfriendly gestures.

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The Pumper – They’ll greet you enthusiastically and shake your hand quite vigorously. Even if meeting for the first time they’re pleased to see you and want to get to know you. You may get business done, but for them it will be part of the process rather than necessarily the core purpose for meeting. Building relationships and making introductions is central to their raison d’être. On meeting them for a second time they may well attempt to hug you in their enthusiasm.

The Long Grip – The grip is firm but they don’t let go as if for fear of upsetting you. They tend to be less confident socially and place great emphasis on taking care of others. Being pressurised to make decisions quickly makes them distinctly uncomfortable as they much prefer to mull things over at length. They also tend to build relationships slowly and place great value on loyalty.

The Wet Fish – There is a general perception that a weak handshake reflects a weak personality, and I would caution against making that assumption. Medical professionals will be well aware of arthritis sufferers for whom shaking hands is very painful, and whose grip is weak as a consequence. Outside of medical conditions the Wet Fish handshake tends to indicate a personality more attuned to projects and details rather than people. They’re not necessarily unfriendly. Rather it’s a case of let’s deal with the information first and make sure everything is in order. Please note that these people do not hug!

The cultural anthropologist Edward T. Hall coined the term proxemics, which refers to the physical spaces between people with which different cultures tend to be comfortable. Those with the Wet Fish handshake become particularly uncomfortable when their space is encroached upon. Standing too close when you have just met them may give them cause to dislike you and hinder any potential business deal.

Government Press Office (Israel) (Mobile)

As in the above example those who shake hands at a distance are clearly indicating their discomfort at being in the presence of particular individuals. This particular photo refers to a very specific and tense political situation, but such handshakes are not unknown in business. In such cases it will take a monumental effort to establish any degree of trust, and negotiations are likely to be long drawn out and quite fraught.

Joseph McGuire is the owner of Clearsight Communications who provide personal evaluation services and training in the areas of senior level recruitment/promotion, negotiations, sales and HR. Individual consultation sessions are available both in person and via Skype. He is also in demand for group presentations, private functions and conferences. For further information email: info@clearsightcommunications.com

 

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5 Key Behavioural Indications when Reading Faces

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There are many facial clues to personality and behavioural traits. Over 30 years of study and practice in reading faces leaves me in no doubt that we can gain deep insights through clear and skilled observation. Learning to read the clues accurately can assist us greatly in any interpersonal engagement. It is an invaluable skill when used in HR, recruitment, sales and negotiation.

Here are 5 commonly seen facial features and what they mean:

1 – Vertical line between the eyebrows

rupert-murdoch-vertical crease (Mobile)

A single clear and distinct vertical line rising from between the eyebrows has a number of particular meanings. It indicates that the individual is likely to have a lifelong challenge of managing their blood-sugar levels. Failure to do so will result in hypoglycaemia (low blood-sugar), which in turn leads to mood swings, irritability, and fluctuating performance levels. Such an individual is also likely to have distinct perfectionist traits, and be highly self-critical, all of which can impact on both personal and professional relationships. If you’re negotiating with this person try to make sure they have eaten beforehand so that their blood-sugar levels are stable! A particularly long line is associated with a ruthless streak!

Example: Rupert Murdoch

2- The Unibrow

Ronnie O'Sullivan eyebrows 1

It has traditionally been said that one should never trust someone with a unibrow – also known as a monobrow. It is more likely that they will be slow to trust others, and will tend to remember real or perceived slights for a long time. They tend to have overactive minds, to the extent of frequently suffering from insomnia. Learning to relax is a huge challenge for them. Stubbornness is another typical trait, and they can become quite attached to fixed ideas.

Examples: Ronnie O’Sullivan, Noel Gallagher

3- Eyebrows angled downwards

Steve Jobs eyebrows

Eyebrows – especially the one on the right – which are angled down towards the nose, or shaped like an inverted V are associated with an autocratic personality. These people have very strong views, will express them with passion and expect to be obeyed. They will be quite direct in challenging others and tend only to be aware afterwards of the emotional impact their behaviour has on others. When dealing with such individuals you will need to have your preparation done and be willing to stand up for your views.

Examples: Steve Jobs, Tony Blair

4 – Triangular Shaped Nose

martin-mcguinness nose

A triangular shaped nose is indicative of someone who prefers to formulate their ideas alone before conferring with colleagues. Having thought things through in depth they will not usually be easily swayed from their views. They also tend to build up momentum as a project takes off and can be, and be seen as a major driving force.

Example: Martin McGuinness

5 – The Fleshy Mound

Donald Trump macho knob

This refers to a three dimensional fleshy mound between the lower lip and the chin. It may be seen as being like a pressure valve. Such individuals tend to have very high energy levels and need to let off steam when the levels become too high. This frequently manifests itself in bursts of childish and unpredictable behaviour, even to the point of being self-destructive eg over indulgence in alcohol, drugs, gambling or sex. One U.S. face reader has referred to this feature as a ‘macho knob’, and such individuals generally like to demonstrate their manliness – at least as they see it. They tend to expect to be liked.

Examples: Donald J. Trump, Donald Trump Jr.

This is just a few examples of key facial features and their meaning. I’ll be sharing more in future articles.

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Joseph McGuire is the owner of Clearsight Communications who provide personal evaluation services and training in the areas of senior level recruitment/promotion, negotiations, sales and HR. Individual consultation sessions are available both in person and via Skype. He is also in demand for group presentations, private functions and conferences. For further information email: info@clearsightcommunications.com

 

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U.S. Presidents – Faces of Power?

FILE - 5 SEPTEMBER 2012: The 2012 Democratic National Convention began yesterday with former US Preseident Bill Clinton taking to the stage this evening to speak. The November 6, 2012 elections will decide between US Presidential Candidates Barack Obama (L) and Mitt Romney. For a look back at the last 100 years of US Presidential races. Please refer to the following profile on Getty Images Archival for further imagery: https://www.gettyimages.com/Search/Search.aspx?EventId=150262549&EditorialProduct=Archival#esource=maplinARC_uki_sep12 (FILE PHOTO) In this composite image a comparison has been made between former US Presidential Candidates John F Kennedy (L) and Richard Nixon. In 1960 John F Kennedy won the presidential election to become the President of the United States. ***LEFT IMAGE*** 1960: Senator John F Kennedy, the Democratic candidate smiles on November 9, 1060. (Photo by Keystone/Getty Images) ***RIGHT IMAGE*** 1960: American politician Richard Nixon looks up on July 19, 1969. (Photo by Keystone/Getty Images) ORG XMIT: 150262549
November 9, 1060. (Photo by Keystone/Getty Images)

Even in this hi-tech world our faces are an integral part of our brand. Those we meet form impressions of us in micro-seconds. As part of my profession I assess people based on their facial features, micro-expressions and their body language. I do this to help clients make clear and informed decisions about who they hire and who they’re doing business with. Often I don’t have the opportunity to sit across from someone so I must form a detailed and accurate impression of their personality and behaviour style from their photograph. This might sound impossible but you can tell a great deal about someone from their photo.

Instinctively and historically we have tended to associate particular features with leadership and trustworthiness. A classic example of this came in the U.S. presidential campaign of 1960. This was the first time the candidates were shown debating live on TV. John F. Kennedy recognised the power of the medium and was amenable to the requests of the studio people, including wearing makeup. Richard Nixon in contrast was ill, wasn’t taking his medication, and refused to wear makeup, on the grounds that it was unmanly! (Anyone appearing on TV nowadays will know the importance of makeup.) During the debate Nixon perspired and looked unshaven, whereas Kennedy appeared youthful, relaxed and energetic. The TV debate was regarded as being a decisive factor in a close run election. Interestingly a survey of radio listeners made Nixon a clear winner of the debate. A clear case of pictures painting a thousand words!

Donald Trump (Mobile)

More recently Donald Trump became the 45th POTUS. Over many years he has crafted a public image of himself as a powerful, decisive and no-nonsense business leader, with exaggerated body language to match. This image helped to impress a high enough percentage of the electoral college for him to be elected. A closer look at his facial features provides a much more detailed profile of his personality. Trump has a relatively square face, which the Chinese refer to as an Iron face – a trait he shared with Winston Churchill. This shape is associated with great stamina, a very strong will, and a tendency to rely on strong instincts – which are often accurate. His bone structure is strong, and coupled with his large nose indicates that he will be an imposing personality with very strong drives – He will invariably speak his mind. The dip at the bridge of the nose shows his lack of patience with meetings.

His eyes are usually narrowed, and where this is not as a consequence of visual impairment it is a likely sign of a calculating personality. (NB – Ultimately the eyes are the most important part of Face Reading. In western culture making eye contact is important, and we should pay close attention to the message we get from the eyes. In the case of Donald Trump there is very rarely any warmth evident, so we can be clear that he acts primarily in his own interests.)The thick upper eyelid folds are a sign of a large ego. The left eyelid fold is noticeably thicker, meaning that his ego will be more pronounced in his private life. The inner angle of the left eye is more acute than the right eye, so his temper will be quite evident to those living with him. The 3-dimensional fleshy bump on his chin is associated with bursts of impulsive, unpredictable and even childish behaviour which will frequently be a means of demonstrating his macho side.

In our increasingly busy world we can become accustomed to brief glances, leading to what psychologists refer to as ‘inattentional blindness’. It pays to take a little more time and care to see the details and discover who we’re really dealing with and prepare accordingly.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Joseph McGuire is the owner of Clearsight Communications who provide personal evaluation services and training in the areas of senior level recruitment/promotion, negotiations, sales and HR. Individual consultation sessions are available both in person and via Skype. He is also in demand for group presentations, private functions and conferences. For further information email: info@clearsightcommunications.com

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Your Body Speaks Volumes

The above picture is a classic illustration of postures of dominance and submission, as head of the IMF Christine Lagarde met then Greek prime minister Lucas Papademos.Of course one picture cannot tell the full story, but if ever a picture painted a thousand words this one did! Christine Lagarde’s posture exudes confidence, and confidence is a vital ingredient in both facing the challenges on the road to becoming successful, and maintaining that success when we achieve it. (For more on the topic of posture and confidence see Amy Cuddy’s excellent talk on TED.com)

In every meeting our bodies reveal a great deal about us, and we can choose to let that work for or against us. We can all cultivate confidence, no matter what our background and personal history may be. True confidence allows us to relax, to accept our imperfections, and present our strengths in a positive and grounded fashion. Despite any impression given by the above photo, it is about allowing us to connect, rather than dominate. In reality each meeting is a dynamic experience, where – even if seated – our bodily movements express many aspects of our story.

I’m reminded of my Aikido classes of many years ago. Aikido is described as ‘the Way of Harmony’. The objective of each encounter is to use the momentum of any aggressor to gently disarm him/her and restore a state of peace. One does this from a place of relaxed, alert confidence, focused on the most positive outcome. It is calm and respectful, but in no way weak!

aikido1 (Mobile)

No matter the personality type we are dealing with, presenting ourselves with true, relaxed and alert confidence allows us to adapt our posture and behaviour – without compromising our values –  to the needs of the situation. Sometimes it will be clear that the best option is to simply walk away. More often than not, however, we find that the commitment we have made to ourselves draws others to us, creating opportunities to explore the mutual benefits of using our services. That alone is a powerful aid to success. Now let the dance of negotiations begin!

tango1 (Mobile)

Joseph McGuire is the owner of Clearsight Communications who provide personal evaluation services and training in the areas of senior level recruitment/promotion, negotiations, sales and HR. Individual consultation sessions are available both in person and via Skype. He is also in demand for group presentations, private functions and conferences. For further information email: info@clearsightcommunications.com

 

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Sealing the Deal – Face to Face!

“All things being equal, people will do business with and refer business to, those people they know, like and trust.”-Bob Burg

No matter what our job or profession, we’re all involved in sales. There are many different approaches, but the end goal remains the same, persuading the customer to part with their money. Sometimes we need make no great effort. The customer knows what he/she wants, and just buys it. We should, however, always remain alert, to ensure that potential translates into business. A key question then arises. Is a one-off sale sufficient, or do we wish to build something more than a superficial connection, with the prospect of repeat business?

Continue reading Sealing the Deal – Face to Face!