Don't be a windbag... be winsome. Now more than ever, with online networking groups erupting at every turn, communication skills should be razor-sharp. If you're a network member, you know what I mean.
You've seen that lone networker, he stands out in a crowd... not so much for his smooth moves, but because he knows how to rattle people with his egocentrism. Yes, many a networker has been that communication clod (myself included) who just tromps upon people's egos and shakes up the group with bad vibes. That networker has a knack all right... for wiping out their future business prospects in one fell swoop.
The networking nimrod can use a few lessons in positive communication. Huh? Yes: accentuating the positive in your communication so that you remain lovable and winsome... even while disagreeing with another person.
How do you do this? Well, for starters you can recognize that just because your fellow internet marketer has one idea and you have another, does not mean you hold opposing viewpoints. So, don't start off on the wrong foot by introducing your remarks with an oppositional phrase. What's an oppositional phrase? Well, it's like a prepositional phrase, but different. (Okay, that was a joke.)
Here's how to add your two cents to a network discussion without making other people feel discounted and oogy inside:
Eliminate ALL negative statements about the other person before you type them.
Some examples of negative statements:
"I disagree."
"I think you misunderstand something."
"You're wrong."
"Here's what you don't know."
If you want to piggyback on someone else's idea, then start thinking of yourself as contributing ideas to the conversation instead of OPPOSING what someone else is saying. That's what you're doing after all, isn't it?
Instead of injecting your no's, nots, nevers and don'ts, begin your posts with a "yes and," "also," "maybe," "what if" and "additionally."
It is REALLY negative to always think that you're disagreeing with everyone! Unless what you're saying is the absolute converse white-to-their-black, you're actually just tossing your thoughts into the idea salad bowl.
Next time you want to share your expertise on the network, try "agreeing and adding to the conversation." You're bound to leave everyone feeling warm and fuzzy inside... and that, dear marketer, is the first step in becoming well-liked and winsome.
Copyright 2005 Dina Giolitto. All rights reserved.
Dina Giolitto is a copywriting consultant and ghostwriter with 10 years of experience writing corporate print materials and web content. Trust her with your next e-book, article series or web project, and make a lasting impression on your audience of information-hungry prospects. Visit http://www.wordfeeder.com for more information.
Suffering and Happiness Suffering, as the Buddha said, is part and parcel of life. How we choose to deal with this reality very much defines the spirit in which we approach life. It ...
How to Find, Select, and Afford a Wedding Photographer You are engaged and one of the most important days in your life is fast approaching. Your wedding day will be filled with happiness and emotion. Family and fri...
Are There Any Side Effects of a Hysterectomy? Hysterectomy is defined as the surgical removal of the vital organ called the uterus. Since there are over 600,000 hysterectomies performed in the United State...
Time: Do You Spend it or Invest it? How we spend our time defines who we are. Time is our greatest and most precious asset. Time is the great equalizer of all us human beings. Why then do we not...
What is Speed Dating? Speed Dating started in Los Angeles as a way to assist Jews to meet Jews, but from here it has snowballed and lost its religious connotations. Now...
What You Should Know About Acne There are many different types of acne and with that come many theories, myths, and treatments. This artice explores acne causes, effects and treatments.
Wedding Dress Wedding a lifetime affair to remember so should be the attire. Simply to say everyone likes to have most desired attire for the most desired affair. Each and ev...
Building a Garage Addition to Your Home One of the most rewarding home improvements I made to my house was to build a garage addition. For years I contemplated building a garage addition while I scrap...
Holiday Formal Gowns The challenge and thrill of selecting that perfect formal gown for that most important holiday party.
The coq10 Benefit One area that coq10 benefits has been reported in people with cardiomyopathies (A group of diseases affecting heart muscle). All research to date on coq10 benef...
Series 7 Exam The Series 7 Exam is the licensing exam that is required by most firms for people looking to be investment brokers. It is a comprehensive exam, but not overly d...
Fads and Fashions New investors are more likely to "follow the crowd" and fall in love with the latest fad. Remember the internet bubble back in the 90s? Be sure to read these ...
Print this page