Author Harvey MacKay wrote the following spot-on advice in his recent column in the Kansas City Business Journal. He wisely points out that all employees at every level should never use these four words in front of a client/customer for both obvious and perhaps not so obvious reasons:
Thanks for the important reminder, Harvey MacKay!
- Can't -- As in, "We can't do that." "We can't meet that deadline." Unless you honestly cannot produce and then be honest and help them find another vendor.
- Busy -- As in, "I'll call you when I'm not so busy." "I'm really busy right now." The word "busy" gives your customer the impression they are a low priority.
- Safe -- As in, "Let's play it safe." Customers typically want to engage in calculated risks versus playing it safe.
- Fear -- As in, "I fear that we may be moving too fast." That tells your customer you haven't done your homework. MacKay writes, "Common sense, thorough research and sound advice should allay your fears to a reasonable level."
Thanks for the important reminder, Harvey MacKay!
thanks for a great reminder! I read your blog from a business owner perspective, but I have no employees - I do however train my client's employees - and these words eliminate sales ... plain and simple ... they also show lack of knowledge and understanding which leaves a customer wanting to go next door
ReplyDeletelove your blog!!