To be professionally effective, and achieve what you want, you’ll need to be heard.
Sounds simple ? Definitely. So simple that it’s often overlooked in the rush to get into “real business development” mode.
If you can’t easily be heard and then clearly understood, prospective clients and clients mostly won’t bother to bring the problem to your attention. Instead, they’ll just find it easier and more comfortable to spend their time with another competent professional.
Speak clearly. Good diction, clear enunciation, and volume matter. Project your voice. Mumbling, muttering, and lazy speech won’t help you to be heard.
Get the substance across with concise sentences. Illustrate your points with relevant examples.
Stick to the subject. Don’t wander around the issues - be straightforward.
Don’t leave your listener confused. If your purpose is to convey information, say so. If you want someone to do something, say so. Rather than hoping that they’ll eventually get the idea of what you’re after, get to the point - pronto - and make a plain request.
If you want action, ask for it. If it’s important, don’t confuse matters with vagaries like “only if that’s OK”. If it’s urgent, the right words are not “when you’re ready” - more like “now, please”.
Focus on the positive. Eventually, it will be hard to be heard if you’re constantly negative or carping.
Be a courteous listener. Let the other party make their point, interpose questions for clarity.
Ease tensions by maintaining your sense of humour - seeing the funny side of a situation is often a good way to improve the emotional environment.
Good-nature and sincere interest will always help you to develop rapport, make connections, and help you to be heard.
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