When choosing promo, prospects have plenty of options. How do you get them to pick you? You can start by creating a connection. People buy from those they know, like and trust. When you embrace traits like empathy and humor, you can attract prospects and get them excited to work with you.
Writer Emily Heaslip contributed a post for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce blog on some personal characteristics that customers love. In this issue of PromoPro Daily, we share Heaslip’s thoughts on the soft skills and personality traits that can build customer affinity.
1. Empathy. This soft skill helps you turn stressful situations into rewarding ones. When you put yourself in the prospect’s shoes, you show that you understand where they’re coming from. This drives better results across the board because when people feel valued and supported, they’re more likely to want to work with you.
2. Active listening. How well do you listen to your prospects? It can make all the difference in building a meaningful partnership. Good listening skills are essential to fully understand customer issues, Heaslip says. You should be willing to truly hear and consider what prospects say.
3. Resourcefulness. When you demonstrate resourcefulness, you show a can-do attitude and a willingness to work creatively. Heaslip says when prospects have a question or concern, they want the first person they speak to to be able to provide an answer. Therefore, your whole team needs to be empowered to make decisions without much oversight.
4. Humor. Cracking an appropriate joke or simply taking a lighthearted approach can be a great rapport-builder. When you’re friendly and optimistic, Heaslip says you can put your prospects at ease. It makes them feel comfortable and could lead them to make a purchasing decision sooner.
5. Responsibility. A sense of personal responsibility is invaluable, Heaslip says. If you’re adding to your promo team this year, look for employees who feel a level of commitment to customers that goes beyond clocking in and out. When someone feels like a company will do what it takes to be responsible, Heaslip says they’re more likely to come back.
Try sprinkling in some humor, practicing empathy and just listening more intently. When you focus on the soft skills like those mentioned above, you can set yourself apart from the competition and make yourself irresistible to prospects.
Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Emily Heaslip is a Cape Town-based contributor to CO—, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce blog.
