Want better business? Be more likeable.

Self isolation sure has given me lots of time to think. Something on my mind is of course how to attract more business. It goes without saying that for business to succeed you need a great product or service. But beyond this, I reckon being more likeable can sharpen your competitive edge by gaining you more clients, a better reputation, and a broader network of contacts. 

I’ve been doing some reading up on this and the good news is, being likeable is a skill. More precisely, it is a set of skills that we can all practice not only to better our business but simply to be better humans. 

As I’m meeting more people through my new business venture (~ at least I was before social distancing laws!), I’ve had the opportunity to practice. Any job we do with Flipro requires me to communicate with the client and any number of tradespeople and professionals who are called on site. So here are the things I’m learning to do. 

First - smile! It sounds so simple and, really, it is. You wouldn’t believe how far a broad, genuine smile goes to make you more likeable. It puts people at ease and makes them feel happy. Now, that toothy grin is located between a pair of ears and you should use them. Don’t just smile and nod while someone else speaks, make sure you’re actually listening. Ask questions, show you understand by paraphrasing. It’s very powerful when someone feels truly heard.

You might be like me, where I hear a name and it leaves my mind instantly. This is something I really want to work on. These days when someone tells me their name, I ask them to spell it, even if it’s as simple as J-o-e. Doesn’t it feel great when someone uses your name mid conversation? I want to pass those good vibes on by using Joe’s name when I greet him and chat. There you have another easy way to be more likeable. 

Finally, I’m learning to be more positive. You might have heard of a gratitude journal? Well, I’ve got one of them and I try now to see the benefit in every situation throughout the day. Sometimes the blessing is easy to see, and sometimes it’s more of a lesson. I’ve found it hard but extremely rewarding work to catch myself before I grump or complain and instead refocus my attention. Inviting more positivity in your life makes the people around you feel better and will make you feel amazing. 

One thing I love about my new business, Flipro, is the community building. By practicing these interpersonal skills, I’m making more friends and contacts. I’ve said before that my new definition of success is about helping people and making a difference. Smiling more, listening actively and being more positive is part and parcel of making the world around me just that little bit better with the added bonus of improving business too!