Mike’s 1-Minute Sunday Morning Food For Thought
Choose Your Words Wisely (From Bedtime Stories)
This particular topic popped into my head early this morning for no apparent reason. I awoke to find myself thinking about words, phrases and sentences that were directed my way over the years.
You never know how your words may be taken by the recipient. For example, I don’t think I will ever forget a particular sentence tossed my way by my college football coach. I will spare you the specifics, but let it suffice to say, I have laid awake many nights reliving that particular brow beating.
Fast forwarding to the present I will try to shed some light on word choice by sharing a few more examples:
1. Saying“thank you”instead of simply saying “thanks” may appear as a little thing but in my mind conveys a vast difference in sincerity.
2. “Love ya”is aterm used by many family members when terminating a phonecall. “I love you” removes any doubt and delivers this heartfelt message clearly.
3. When responding to a“thank you”from others, the term “No problem” in my mind is weak and lacking sincerity. A much better choice of words might sound like “You’re welcome” or, “It was truly my pleasure.”
You might think I am getting picky. I beg to differ. Your choice of words in any one particular instance can result in either moving closer or further away from developing a meaningful relationship with both prospects and current customers. More often than not, a few more choice words will position you as the “real deal” and isn’t that what you are looking to achieve?
On a different, but in a similar vein, it is important to remember that not everyone has, or appreciates your sense of humor. I have been known to cross this line on more than one occasion only to be reminded by my wife.
I am not suggesting you put a tarp on your humor gene, but I am suggesting that you think twice before sharing that humorous one-liner that is aching to be released.
Thank you for reading tonight’s bedtime story. I truly appreciate you spending a few moments with me. Tomorrow presents a brand-new opportunity to make a significant difference in your marketplace. Choose your words wisely.