Have you noticed that:

It’s easier (or more comfortable) for most to send an email than pick up the phone.
Despite the overwhelming use of cell phones, it’s harder to actually reach someone.
A voicemail is now considered an acceptable form of communication.
Technology has made it almost acceptable to ignore the person you’re with, ie talking on a cell phone at lunch or text messaging someone during a meeting.

You get the idea, no one is actually talking to each other!
Today “talking” has been replaced with a string of emails or a game of phone tag.
And the worst thing about it is that, this method of communicating has become acceptable!

However, if you ask anyone, what are the most important things in life?
Most people will include relationships/companionship as one of the answers.

• Families want more time to spend with their loved ones.
• Friends rely on mutual support and understanding.
• Professionals are more likely to leave a job because of an interpersonal conflict and not feeling valued, rather than because of a specific project or task.
• Clients demand better customer service and overall value from a purchase.
• Businesses grow based on customer loyalty, so they invest resources to build that trust.

In order to foster the important relationships in our lives, it takes two vital ingredients: time and communication.

Most strong relationships are built on trust and consistency, both of which show up over time.
In addition, there is usually an understanding or a shared bond between the two parties, which can only be the result of true communication.

So when we take the time to communicate (the actual exchange of information both by talking and listening), we start to develop lasting relationships and it feels good for both parties involved.

Think of the last time you got a call from a friend who just called to say “hello,” how did it make you feel?

What if your boss took the time to ask about your weekend, and actually stopped to listen?
How would that help your productivity?

What if a company cared about your opinions enough to ask what you REALLY want?
Then what if that company created a product that was designed specifically for you?
Would you be a loyal customer?

How would you feel if you were on the giving end?
What if you are that friend? What if you are that boss? What if you are that company?
I’m guessing it would make you feel pretty good too.

Discovery Tip: Take Time To Communicate

For the next week, communicate with as many people as you can.
(1) Instead of sending an email, pick up the phone to chat.
(2) Ask a colleague about their weekend- and stop to really listen.
(3) Get feedback from a client regarding your product/services - what do they REALLY want?

Notice the reactions you are getting and any feelings associated with your communication.
Notice if it makes a difference with your relationships, both personally and professionally.
Notice how YOU feel.

Technorati Tags: Communication, Business Development, Relationships, Action