Be a People Person

Entrepreneurs are often described as being charismatic. They have an infectious passion that spreads through their products, employees and brand. Think Richard Branson. However, if you don’t exude God-given charismatic authority, here are some tips I’ve picked up from the last two weeks of sales training, shadowing and NEF workshops:

1. Names are crucial

Living in a new town, starting a new job and meeting my fellow New Entrepreneurs has resulted in a huge pile of names to remember. In addition to this, I will be making an effort to remember the names of all the customers I interact with on the shop floor. Why? Because, to most people, the sweetest sound is the sound of their own name. I find the best way to remember the name is to remember the person. Make an effort to find enough common ground with the person you’re interacting with, otherwise you’ve not forgotten the name, but you’ve probably forgotten the entire interaction.

2. Ask the ‘right’ questions

Whether you’re forming a business, selling a sofa or meeting someone for the first time, questions are crucial. And the beauty of it is, there are no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ questions to learn. Good questions are formed after you’ve heard the other person speak. They are relevant to the other person; they show you have listened; and they are vital in strengthening your understanding of the other person.

3. Smile

In general, people make more decisions based on emotions than they do on logic. Positive body language and communication are vital when selling, negotiating and networking. Think carefully about the impression you want to leave with people. When was the last time you left a conversation with a happy, friendly person? When was the last time you received a good-natured smile from a stranger, who then went about their normal day? How did it make you feel?

Common sense tips, perhaps, but surprisingly effective if implemented consistently. Perhaps charisma cannot be learned. But strong, open and honest relationships with your customers, suppliers and employees certainly comes a close second.

Note: this article was written in September 2011 during a year long placement with the New Entrepreneurs Foundation. Originally published at ushmanef.tumblr.com.