5 Ways Employing Emotional Intelligence Can Land You New Clients
In a world where you can reach anyone in an instant, making new client relationships has never been easier.
Though, with this increased client connection comes the blurring of lines between work and personal life, making building on and maintaining those client relationships seem problematic in the long term.
However, by utilizing emotional intelligence, we can advantageously employ it with all clients to gain an overall better relationship, showcasing how emotions can, in fact, work to our advantage, here are few tips for any entrepreneur to start with:
1. Keep a Check on Your Own Emotions
Many of us spend a great deal of time getting to get to know the emotions of our customers and clients but rarely do we take our own feelings into account during such relationships.
Being able to communicate effectively with others on an equal level is only possible when we truly understand ourselves. Relationships are a two-way process, therefore need compliance and dedication on both sides.
By understanding how we display certain emotions, we can alter how we approach our relationships each day. None of us can keep a brave face 24/7, so allow yourself this and perhaps be more aware and mindful when speaking to others that day.
2. Empathy is a Skill, Not a Weakness
Once considered an enemy of the workplace, nowadays people want to see some shows of compassion and understanding when dealing with companies or individuals.
Showing an element of empathy in your professional relationships, with potential clients especially, allows you to work on demonstrating fundamental skills such as listening and encouraging others to have their say.
Even if this personality trait doesn't come naturally, over time if you can train yourself to become more empathic to those around you, you'll encourage better working relationships and trust.
3. Use Vulnerability to Your Advantage
People are more likely to connect with and respect a person who admits that they have weaknesses. Psychologically, if someone can see you doing well but knows of the adversaries you've faced to get here, the more likely they are to respect you because of this journey.
Just as empathy was once frowned upon, so at one-time was a vulnerability, with many considering it a weakness to show and demonstrate our flaws. Now, discussing such failings unites those looking to create equal footing relationships.
This isn't about admitting to incessant fails, instead highlighting that you're open and ultimately trustworthy, enabling others who've been through similar experiences to approach you with more confidence.
4. Give Generously for Long-Term Possibilities
In a world that continually takes, being the person who gives can create the most amazing of first impressions! In the style of paying it forward, look at instances where you can offer advice and suggestions which require nothing in return.
Not only does this leave you feeling emotionally more connected to building stronger connections with others, but it also creates immediate quality first impressions of you with those you seek to develop a bond with.
Furthermore, though it may not instantly seem as though it pays off if people can still recall a time you paid it forward they're more than likely to return that favour someday in the future, often when you're least expecting it!
5. Develop an Appreciation for Others
Though none of us should judge a book by its cover, when it comes to understanding the person you're trying to connect with, it's helpful to develop some form of characterization instincts to gain a deeper appreciation of them.
By gaining a thorough understanding of the way someone listens, organizes and communicates the information you deal them, you'll be able to pick up on subtle signs as to how to conduct future productive conversations with them.
This appreciation can make all the difference between a fleeting moment in passing or long-term professional relationships or maybe even a future client.
