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This is a new business environment and we all had to learn to engage with people using technology. Most of us work remote and we will have to do so for a lot longer than we anticipated. While most people I have encountered have become more engaging and helpful, there are some who don’t embrace a professional approach. In essence, we had to learn to build trust by using technology instead of meeting in-person. Not an easy task, but doable. So, what is at the heart of a good business relationship?
Is it people who are agile and smooth in their communication and outreach who have an advantage, or is it people who are steady and reliable? Later in this article I will refer to an article that was published about Ghosting, a new term used in business where people just ignore you.
The big question is, what are the characteristics of a business person that we can trust? By the way, vendors, suppliers and job candidates are business people as well.
One thing I know for sure is that people remember how you made them feel. Whether you meet somebody in-person or on-line, that sentiment doesn’t change. What’s alarming though is how many people think that they can be unresponsive in this new, virtual world.
I get it, it’s easier to disregard or even snub via email but there are still people on the other side of that screen. In that spirit, I believe that there are some traits that will help us become better business people so we can build a better business environment and a stronger society.
Authenticity
Always a trait that I embraced and appreciated, but now the gloves are off. We sit in our kitchens, sometimes have children crying in the background, our clothes are more casual and it’s all fine, because we are all in the same boat. That’s why it’s important to bare our soul and bring our core to succeed.
Honesty
While being authentic is really important, honesty will prevail. There are no distractions, such as golf games, dinners or drinks. People will figure out whether you are fake a lot faster. If you commit to something, stick with it. If you can’t commit, don’t promise.
True to Your Word
And finally, and that’s my favorite. Being true to your word! There are so many companies who think that they get away by “ghosting” candidates and vendors. Ghosting is a term that is used in dating, but has now become a reference when people don’t get back to you and just wait until you “get” it. It’s not only unprofessional and cruel, it’s something that everybody who has been ghosted will remember.
Ghosting is not just for Lovers
And just like I mentioned before, people will remember how you made them feel. What goes around, comes around and a prospect or candidate could be your boss next year. Keep that in mind as we enter into 2021.
Related: Naked Prospecting