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Hub You - 58 (More) Phrases That Payses
So You Want to Tap Into the Minneapolis, MN Medical Device Industry?! nd telling. This phrase lets them know you’re listening, taking notes, and encourages them to offer more detailed answers.So you want to tap into the Minneapolis, MN Medical Device industry, aka 'Medical Alley'? Although this is a huge and rapidly growing industry, it seems impossible to tap into unless you already have medical device experience!As a Technical Recruiter, I have actually had great success placing folks into medical device companies who had little or no medical device experience at all! How did I do it? I would be lying if I said it was easy, but then again, I would be lying if I said it was hard! It seems to me that the number one most important skill that medical device companies look for is folks with strong experience in a HIGHLY REGULATED INDUSTRY!Let's say that you are currently a Manufacturing Engineer at a foods processing facility. Although food and medical device aren't similar in the product sense (actually, one is the cause of the other!), they still have one thing very closely in common: they are both regulated by the FDA. So this tells me that the Manufacturing Engineer probably has experience with FDA Audits, documentation trails a mile long, and possibly experience with ISO and/or QS standards.Here's another example; this time let's use a Electrical Engineer from the telecomm industry. She has strong experience working with wireless devices that utilize RF technology. Many implantable and non implantable devices utilize RF to communicate problems that the patient may have experienced. Actually, the telecomm industry usually develops the technologies that, once perfected, the medical device industry implements.One last example; this time let's use a Design Drafter from a heavy equipment industry. Now when you think heavy equipment, you probably think of John Deere tractors or CAT paving equipment. This Design Drafter actually does the dashboard controls and instrumentation. He works wi 25. Excuse my annoying typing; I just want to get all this stuff down! Similar to the above example. Polite, humorous way to subtlety demonstrate active listening while on the phone. 26. Well actually, that’s why I’m calling. Perfect for any objection. “We’re already happy with our present supplier.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” “We don’t use copy machines in our office.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” “My boss says you’re a huge jerk and a horrible businessperson and don’t deserve to live.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” 27. Does this all make sense? Keeps someone on point, offers an opportunity for him to ask questions, interject, or tell you to continue. Don’t overuse it, however, or he will think you’re insulting his intelligence. 28. What questions have I not answered for you? Been using this one for years. Always at the end of the conversation. Usually gets the other person to suggest something I never thought of. Also shows humility that you may or may not have explained everything. Gives them a chance to chime in. 29. What’s on your mind? More emotional, open ended and specific than “What’s up?” “How’s it going?” or “How are ya?” Besides, nobody can answer this question with Why Your Profit Margin Is Not Important If you control language, you control thought.
If you control thought, you control conversation.
If you control conversation, you control outcomes.Profit margins seem to be main focus of executives and small business owners.Everyone from the CEO of General Motors to your average eBay seller is focused on it.But think fo what a profit margin actually represents. It’s not an indication of how much money you are actually making, it’s only a figure that tells what the profit portion is as a percentage of the total sale.In other words a $10 profit on a $100 sale means that your profit margin is 10%.Now let me ask you this, let’s assume your average profit margin is 100%. That type of profit margin would make any business owner envious. But what if the total sale was only $2? Your actual profit would only be $1, even though you are working a high profit margin.I am sure you realize how many products you would have to sell to make any serious money.But what if your profit margin was only 5% on a $100,000 sale?Your actual profit would be $5,000. In net terms you are making more money even though the profit margin is 20 times smaller than in the above example.That’s the real reason your profit margin is not important. What is important is your actual net profit.Profit margins are good formulas for general accounting and investment decisions. But as a business owner your determining concern should be your net profit.Need more convincing?Let’s look at your average dollar store compared to your average car dealer.The dollar store is working on a profit margin of up to 300%, while the car dealer is working on a profit margin of as little as 10%. Let’s further assume that the dollar store sells strictly dollar items and the car dealer focuses on $20,000 cars. Using these figures the dollar store will have to sell roughly 4,000 items to earn the same profit as the car dealer does with one sale.So w Whether you’re a manager, customer service rep, sales professional or entrepreneur, these 58 Phrases that Payses will equip you with the approachable answers and persuasive probers that achieve communication success. 1. What did I not cover effectively enough? Say this in response to an “I’ll have to think it over” objection. 2. I probably shouldn’t be telling you this, but. It’s like a secret. Appeals to someone’s natural curious tendencies. 3. Who else has an opinion on this? At a meeting, this question engages the whole group. It allows multiple inputs and shows that you’re not playing favorites. 4. Why is that so important to you? A great probing question to uncover the true motivations behind someone’s actions. 5. I am at your service. Not just for customer service professionals any more. All business professionals are at the service of their customers. Say this to reassure your client that you’ve got their back. Remind them that they can ask anything of you. Also a great phrase to use with new members of an organization, guests at a meeting or new congregants at a church. 6. You probably already know this, but.... Assumptive language appeals to someone’s intelligence and compliments him. 7. Nobody’s ever asked me that before! Shows you don’t have all the answers, nor have you heard everything before. Pause before answering. Your sincerity and honesty will be reinforced with your response. 8. I don’t know, but I can find out. Admits that you’re not a know it all. Also commits to follow up. 9. What do you see as the pluses and minuses of moving ahead? Open-ended, makes them think about both sides of their decision. 10. I’m sorry. You lost me. Great phrase to use against a know-it-all who won’t shut up. Use it to gain clarification and keep them accountable. 11. Where do you call home? If attending an out of town conference, this is a perfect follow up after an introduction. 12. I disagree. Works well if stated confidently and followed with a two second pause. It cues the individual or group of people to immediately halt the conversation and hear you out. What’s more, it’s less argumentative, abrasive and defensive than “You’re wrong!” or “You don’t know what you’re talking about!” Lastly, it’s an effective way to show you’re listening AND thinking about what others are saying, rather that just smiling and nodding. 13. I’m not sure I understand your point, but keep going. Also known as an “acceptance phrase,” this subtle interruption doesn’t steal ownership of the conversation, yet makes the point that you’re confused. 14. What’s most important in your decision to buy (x)? Shows people how their highest values will be met by working with you. 15. Wow, you’re really upset about this. The number one way to respond to crude, rude remarks from someone who’s trying to play the “bait game.” Remember, he’s just trying to get a rise out of you. Don’t get defensive or upset. If you do, he wins. Instead, try this “you” statement to reverse the direction of the conversation. It shows that you refuse to take ownership of his problem. 16. You must be having a bad day. Another great way to respond to someone’s unnecessary criticism. Again, it evades ownership of a problem that’s NOT yours. 17. Have you ever thought about…? If you’re giving someone advice, offering a solution or suggesting a new idea, this phrase works well in place of the dreaded “should.” People don’t like to be told what they “should” do; however they do appreciate feedback. Here’s an example. Let’s say your coworker has a problem making cold calls. Instead of preaching to her, you could say: “In my experience, our customers hate to be called before lunch.” Then you would suggest, “Have you ever thought about making your calls in the afternoon?” 18. I’m working on a new idea. Appeals to someone’s curiosity. Encourages someone to get involved on the ground floor. They take ownership and get on board with you, from a simple project within your department to a large corporate initiative. 19. My job is to make you look like a hero. My friend Carol taught me this one. I once used it on a new client and she said, “Oh thank God! I’m new here.” Great line to offer to a low level, recent hire that wants to impress her boss. Reassures her insecurities about her new job. 20. Here’s the challenge. Keeps someone on point in your conversation. Makes them interested in what you have to say next. 21. What’s the story behind that? Open-ended question that usually elicits a great answer. Easy way to learn a lot about someone. Plus, everyone loves a good story. 22. Wow, I really didn’t anticipate that. World-renowned author and sales trainer Stephan Schiffman explains that this phrase levels the playing field. The next line is, “Why not?” at which point you explain why you thought otherwise. Then you ask where you went wrong. Then the prospect clarifies his objection. AWESOME! 23. What’s really bothering you? A probing inquiry that digs deeper; yet shows concern for a more pressing issue. Most often, there’s always something that’s REALLY bothering them. 24. Hang on; I want to write this down. Great in person, greater on the phone (since they can’t see you.) It’s the difference between showing and telling. This phrase lets them know you’re listening, taking notes, and encourages them to offer more detailed answers. 25. Excuse my annoying typing; I just want to get all this stuff down! Similar to the above example. Polite, humorous way to subtlety demonstrate active listening while on the phone. 26. Well actually, that’s why I’m calling. Perfect for any objection. “We’re already happy with our present supplier.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” “We don’t use copy machines in our office.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” “My boss says you’re a huge jerk and a horrible businessperson and don’t deserve to live.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” 27. Does this all make sense? Keeps someone on point, offers an opportunity for him to ask questions, interject, or tell you to continue. Don’t overuse it, however, or he will think you’re insulting his intelligence. 28. What questions have I not answered for you? Been using this one for years. Always at the end of the conversation. Usually gets the other person to suggest something I never thought of. Also shows humility that you may or may not have explained everything. Gives them a chance to chime in. 29. What’s on your mind? More emotional, open ended and specific than “What’s up?” “How’s it going?” or “How are ya?” Besides, nobody can answer this question with t Exploring Careers in Construction compliments him.Without the construction worker, the new hospital across town would not exist, nor the local grocery store, mall, or bridge. The house you live in would cease to decorate your street where a dozen more two-story dwellings thrive. Construction workers are responsible for the establishment of many different kinds of structures that are used on a daily basis. They bring buildings to life, work on heavy construction sites and highways, as well as handle industrial projects.Different Types of Construction CareersWhen it comes to construction work, there is a wide-range of areas that an individual may pursue. Under the umbrella of construction careers, a person may choose to study the ins and outs of becoming an electrician, bricklayer, carpenter, ironworker, heavy equipment operator, or landscaper (amongst other things). Design teams and project managers also find a place within the world of construction as they draw up the plans for a new building and direct workers throughout an assignment.To get a sense of the type of jobs available in construction, below are a few careers to ponder:BricklayerIndividuals who like working with their hands, are physically fit, enjoy precision tools, and have a knack for proportion, line, and color usually fit into the scheme of bricklaying. The duties of a bricklayer may include installing or repairing brick structures; building chimneys or fireplaces; creating patios, walls or walkways; or installing industrial furnaces. Vital skills for a bricklayer include the ability to read and interpret documents; perform calculations; problem-solve; and organize daily tasks. The typical salary for a bricklayer ranges from $60,320 to $70,720.Blasters and DrillersA blaster and driller may work side-by-side and will sometimes perform the same tasks. Blasters are respons 7. Nobody’s ever asked me that before! Shows you don’t have all the answers, nor have you heard everything before. Pause before answering. Your sincerity and honesty will be reinforced with your response. 8. I don’t know, but I can find out. Admits that you’re not a know it all. Also commits to follow up. 9. What do you see as the pluses and minuses of moving ahead? Open-ended, makes them think about both sides of their decision. 10. I’m sorry. You lost me. Great phrase to use against a know-it-all who won’t shut up. Use it to gain clarification and keep them accountable. 11. Where do you call home? If attending an out of town conference, this is a perfect follow up after an introduction. 12. I disagree. Works well if stated confidently and followed with a two second pause. It cues the individual or group of people to immediately halt the conversation and hear you out. What’s more, it’s less argumentative, abrasive and defensive than “You’re wrong!” or “You don’t know what you’re talking about!” Lastly, it’s an effective way to show you’re listening AND thinking about what others are saying, rather that just smiling and nodding. 13. I’m not sure I understand your point, but keep going. Also known as an “acceptance phrase,” this subtle interruption doesn’t steal ownership of the conversation, yet makes the point that you’re confused. 14. What’s most important in your decision to buy (x)? Shows people how their highest values will be met by working with you. 15. Wow, you’re really upset about this. The number one way to respond to crude, rude remarks from someone who’s trying to play the “bait game.” Remember, he’s just trying to get a rise out of you. Don’t get defensive or upset. If you do, he wins. Instead, try this “you” statement to reverse the direction of the conversation. It shows that you refuse to take ownership of his problem. 16. You must be having a bad day. Another great way to respond to someone’s unnecessary criticism. Again, it evades ownership of a problem that’s NOT yours. 17. Have you ever thought about…? If you’re giving someone advice, offering a solution or suggesting a new idea, this phrase works well in place of the dreaded “should.” People don’t like to be told what they “should” do; however they do appreciate feedback. Here’s an example. Let’s say your coworker has a problem making cold calls. Instead of preaching to her, you could say: “In my experience, our customers hate to be called before lunch.” Then you would suggest, “Have you ever thought about making your calls in the afternoon?” 18. I’m working on a new idea. Appeals to someone’s curiosity. Encourages someone to get involved on the ground floor. They take ownership and get on board with you, from a simple project within your department to a large corporate initiative. 19. My job is to make you look like a hero. My friend Carol taught me this one. I once used it on a new client and she said, “Oh thank God! I’m new here.” Great line to offer to a low level, recent hire that wants to impress her boss. Reassures her insecurities about her new job. 20. Here’s the challenge. Keeps someone on point in your conversation. Makes them interested in what you have to say next. 21. What’s the story behind that? Open-ended question that usually elicits a great answer. Easy way to learn a lot about someone. Plus, everyone loves a good story. 22. Wow, I really didn’t anticipate that. World-renowned author and sales trainer Stephan Schiffman explains that this phrase levels the playing field. The next line is, “Why not?” at which point you explain why you thought otherwise. Then you ask where you went wrong. Then the prospect clarifies his objection. AWESOME! 23. What’s really bothering you? A probing inquiry that digs deeper; yet shows concern for a more pressing issue. Most often, there’s always something that’s REALLY bothering them. 24. Hang on; I want to write this down. Great in person, greater on the phone (since they can’t see you.) It’s the difference between showing and telling. This phrase lets them know you’re listening, taking notes, and encourages them to offer more detailed answers. 25. Excuse my annoying typing; I just want to get all this stuff down! Similar to the above example. Polite, humorous way to subtlety demonstrate active listening while on the phone. 26. Well actually, that’s why I’m calling. Perfect for any objection. “We’re already happy with our present supplier.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” “We don’t use copy machines in our office.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” “My boss says you’re a huge jerk and a horrible businessperson and don’t deserve to live.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” 27. Does this all make sense? Keeps someone on point, offers an opportunity for him to ask questions, interject, or tell you to continue. Don’t overuse it, however, or he will think you’re insulting his intelligence. 28. What questions have I not answered for you? Been using this one for years. Always at the end of the conversation. Usually gets the other person to suggest something I never thought of. Also shows humility that you may or may not have explained everything. Gives them a chance to chime in. 29. What’s on your mind? More emotional, open ended and specific than “What’s up?” “How’s it going?” or “How are ya?” Besides, nobody can answer this question with Job Hunting Tips -- Writing The Perfect CV -- Part 2 makes the point that you’re confused.The first part of this article focused on not making your CV too long, making sure your CV is in the right order and why you should personalise your CV for every job application. The second part will focus on the content for your CV including Personal Details, Personal Profile, Employment Experience, Educational Qualifications, Additional Training and Personal Interests.1) Personal DetailsYour CV should start off with your name in big lettering, at the top centre of the page. There is no need to also include ‘CV’ or ‘Curriculum Vitae’ as it is obvious what the document is intended for.Your personal contact details should be next, but not take up too much room. If necessary, use a smaller font and position them towards the top corner of the page.2) Personal ProfileYour Personal Profile should be no longer than five lines long, be written in the third person, and give an accurate overview of your employment and educational experience as well as appearing objective while subtly selling your relative attributes for a particular position.3) Employment ExperienceAs discussed in the first part of this article, your employment experience should generally be featured before your educational background. Examples of when this is not the case includes recent graduates in a relevant degree as well as positions where a specific degree or qualification is essential.When listing each place of employment, the employer name, month of employment starting and finishing and a one or two line overview of the employer should be included. Following that, the job title of the position should be highlighted above 5 bullet points describing the role.Specific aspects of the role should be highlighted in the bullet points that are pertinent to a specific new position. Each bullet point should be no lo 14. What’s most important in your decision to buy (x)? Shows people how their highest values will be met by working with you. 15. Wow, you’re really upset about this. The number one way to respond to crude, rude remarks from someone who’s trying to play the “bait game.” Remember, he’s just trying to get a rise out of you. Don’t get defensive or upset. If you do, he wins. Instead, try this “you” statement to reverse the direction of the conversation. It shows that you refuse to take ownership of his problem. 16. You must be having a bad day. Another great way to respond to someone’s unnecessary criticism. Again, it evades ownership of a problem that’s NOT yours. 17. Have you ever thought about…? If you’re giving someone advice, offering a solution or suggesting a new idea, this phrase works well in place of the dreaded “should.” People don’t like to be told what they “should” do; however they do appreciate feedback. Here’s an example. Let’s say your coworker has a problem making cold calls. Instead of preaching to her, you could say: “In my experience, our customers hate to be called before lunch.” Then you would suggest, “Have you ever thought about making your calls in the afternoon?” 18. I’m working on a new idea. Appeals to someone’s curiosity. Encourages someone to get involved on the ground floor. They take ownership and get on board with you, from a simple project within your department to a large corporate initiative. 19. My job is to make you look like a hero. My friend Carol taught me this one. I once used it on a new client and she said, “Oh thank God! I’m new here.” Great line to offer to a low level, recent hire that wants to impress her boss. Reassures her insecurities about her new job. 20. Here’s the challenge. Keeps someone on point in your conversation. Makes them interested in what you have to say next. 21. What’s the story behind that? Open-ended question that usually elicits a great answer. Easy way to learn a lot about someone. Plus, everyone loves a good story. 22. Wow, I really didn’t anticipate that. World-renowned author and sales trainer Stephan Schiffman explains that this phrase levels the playing field. The next line is, “Why not?” at which point you explain why you thought otherwise. Then you ask where you went wrong. Then the prospect clarifies his objection. AWESOME! 23. What’s really bothering you? A probing inquiry that digs deeper; yet shows concern for a more pressing issue. Most often, there’s always something that’s REALLY bothering them. 24. Hang on; I want to write this down. Great in person, greater on the phone (since they can’t see you.) It’s the difference between showing and telling. This phrase lets them know you’re listening, taking notes, and encourages them to offer more detailed answers. 25. Excuse my annoying typing; I just want to get all this stuff down! Similar to the above example. Polite, humorous way to subtlety demonstrate active listening while on the phone. 26. Well actually, that’s why I’m calling. Perfect for any objection. “We’re already happy with our present supplier.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” “We don’t use copy machines in our office.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” “My boss says you’re a huge jerk and a horrible businessperson and don’t deserve to live.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” 27. Does this all make sense? Keeps someone on point, offers an opportunity for him to ask questions, interject, or tell you to continue. Don’t overuse it, however, or he will think you’re insulting his intelligence. 28. What questions have I not answered for you? Been using this one for years. Always at the end of the conversation. Usually gets the other person to suggest something I never thought of. Also shows humility that you may or may not have explained everything. Gives them a chance to chime in. 29. What’s on your mind? More emotional, open ended and specific than “What’s up?” “How’s it going?” or “How are ya?” Besides, nobody can answer this question with Yellow Page Ads No-No's -- Part 2 . They take ownership and get on board with you, from a simple project within your department to a large corporate initiative.I’ll assume you have a Yellow Page ad and have been tracking the results. If you haven’t, then the next few sentences won’t mean much because I’m writing about the things that may be wrong with your ad. So, hopefully, you asked employees, friends, relatives and total strangers to rate your ad and tell you what they liked and didn’t like. So now you can read on. Let’s pretend the ad is basically fine, but not earth-shaking, The headline could use a little work (see Part 1 of this series) but the body is weak. Do you have a piece of artwork or photo? Does it support the tone, mood or headline? For example, if you clean carpets, is it a picture of your truck or a man with a vacuum? If so, you’ve just wasted value ad space. Why?Because, trust me, everyone knows what a truck and vacuum look like. So where ‘s the excitement, the drama, and the human element? What is the customer wanting by asking for your service? If you answered a clean carpet, go to the corner for time-out, because you’re wrong. They want a safe, dirt-free, and safe place for the kids to roll-around or an allergy-free floor. In other words, results. And they don’t really care whether you use a truck, vacuum, bicycle, or toothbrush on your hands and knees to get it. So, where am I heading with all this?Try a picture of a smiling child playing on the carpet. It’s the “after” picture. Use happy people with a good outcome. That’s something they can relate to. Then make sure that the body text talks about the benefits of clean carpet. It’s that simple. Then you have a unified theme that will lead to increased results. Are you convinced, yet? So you want to know how I know so much.I was a YP rep and consultant for nearly 25 years and, prior to that, had my own advertising agency. I also have a degree in marketing. I’ve been designing Yellow Page ads for t 19. My job is to make you look like a hero. My friend Carol taught me this one. I once used it on a new client and she said, “Oh thank God! I’m new here.” Great line to offer to a low level, recent hire that wants to impress her boss. Reassures her insecurities about her new job. 20. Here’s the challenge. Keeps someone on point in your conversation. Makes them interested in what you have to say next. 21. What’s the story behind that? Open-ended question that usually elicits a great answer. Easy way to learn a lot about someone. Plus, everyone loves a good story. 22. Wow, I really didn’t anticipate that. World-renowned author and sales trainer Stephan Schiffman explains that this phrase levels the playing field. The next line is, “Why not?” at which point you explain why you thought otherwise. Then you ask where you went wrong. Then the prospect clarifies his objection. AWESOME! 23. What’s really bothering you? A probing inquiry that digs deeper; yet shows concern for a more pressing issue. Most often, there’s always something that’s REALLY bothering them. 24. Hang on; I want to write this down. Great in person, greater on the phone (since they can’t see you.) It’s the difference between showing and telling. This phrase lets them know you’re listening, taking notes, and encourages them to offer more detailed answers. 25. Excuse my annoying typing; I just want to get all this stuff down! Similar to the above example. Polite, humorous way to subtlety demonstrate active listening while on the phone. 26. Well actually, that’s why I’m calling. Perfect for any objection. “We’re already happy with our present supplier.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” “We don’t use copy machines in our office.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” “My boss says you’re a huge jerk and a horrible businessperson and don’t deserve to live.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” 27. Does this all make sense? Keeps someone on point, offers an opportunity for him to ask questions, interject, or tell you to continue. Don’t overuse it, however, or he will think you’re insulting his intelligence. 28. What questions have I not answered for you? Been using this one for years. Always at the end of the conversation. Usually gets the other person to suggest something I never thought of. Also shows humility that you may or may not have explained everything. Gives them a chance to chime in. 29. What’s on your mind? More emotional, open ended and specific than “What’s up?” “How’s it going?” or “How are ya?” Besides, nobody can answer this question with Executive Recruiter Tip: They Don't Work For YOU! nd telling. This phrase lets them know you’re listening, taking notes, and encourages them to offer more detailed answers.Changing jobs at the senior level?We’d all like someone out there doing the hard work for us. And we’d like to believe that recruiters are there for us . . . on the lookout for job opportunities for us . . . opening doors for us . . . giving us the inside track to high-paying employment opportunities.NOT!Executive recruiters do not work for you. They are retained by a company to find someone to fill a slot. They are paid by the company. And that’s where their loyalty is.They are matchmakers who may have an interest in you. Here are three qualifications they are looking for in a candidate.1. You’re easy to sell to their clients. You have the capabilities, strengths, assets and education that match the recruiter’s specialty.2. Your work function, geographic location and industry experience match the client’s specifications.3. You’re a perfect fit for the position that’s open right now.Recruiters aren’t career counselors. They’re not going to take the time to write your resume. They won’t teach you how to interview effectively . . . and they’re not going to hold your hand during the process.Corporations retain executive recruiter for several reasons. They expect a recruiter to be knowledgeable in certain specialties or sectors so they can provide quick access to qualified candidates. Or a corporation may have the need for absolute discretion. Sometimes the company has particular time constraints.So here’s an important executive recruiter tip follow-up:Don’t place a lot of job campaign emphasis on recruiters. They play a very limited role in your search.The good news is there’s a formidable plan that can get you guaranteed results in as little as 14 days! Spending your time and energy getting truly impressive results makes a lot more sense. W 25. Excuse my annoying typing; I just want to get all this stuff down! Similar to the above example. Polite, humorous way to subtlety demonstrate active listening while on the phone. 26. Well actually, that’s why I’m calling. Perfect for any objection. “We’re already happy with our present supplier.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” “We don’t use copy machines in our office.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” “My boss says you’re a huge jerk and a horrible businessperson and don’t deserve to live.” “Well actually, that’s why I’m calling.” 27. Does this all make sense? Keeps someone on point, offers an opportunity for him to ask questions, interject, or tell you to continue. Don’t overuse it, however, or he will think you’re insulting his intelligence. 28. What questions have I not answered for you? Been using this one for years. Always at the end of the conversation. Usually gets the other person to suggest something I never thought of. Also shows humility that you may or may not have explained everything. Gives them a chance to chime in. 29. What’s on your mind? More emotional, open ended and specific than “What’s up?” “How’s it going?” or “How are ya?” Besides, nobody can answer this question with the word “F.I.N.E.” which is actually an acronym for “Feelings I’m Not Expressing.” 30. Talk to me. Short, direct, and to the point. Shows you’re prepared to listen. Shows that you’re personally and physically available to them. Great when used with a double handed “come here” gesture. (Try this right now, just for fun.) 31. I can tell something is bothering you. Of course, only use this when you’re SURE something is bothering her. But by explaining that you already know she’s ticked, she’s more likely to open up to you. 32. Wow, I’m surprised at you saying something like that. According to Changing Minds, a non-profit website dedicated to persuasion techniques, being surprised or shocked not just at what the other person says, but also at the person themselves, puts them into a morally lower position (and, by implication, you in a higher position). 33. What larger problems do these symptoms suggest? People with multiple concerns usually skate around the big issue. Give them a chance to show you the trees AND the forest. 34. Listen carefully to what I’m about to say. Appeals to curiosity, gets them to perk up, highlights a key point. Shows you mean business. 35. The next thing I’m going to say will surprise you. People can’t help but listen closer. 36. Did I miss anything? Another clarifying remark. Gives someone a chance to fill in the cracks. Shows you’re open to additional comments and not so close-minded to assume you covered everything. 37. I’m sorry; I’ve been talking too much! Admits that you’re aware of the way others perceive you. Puts the ball in their corner. Another great demonstrator of listening skills. 38. Enough from me, what about you? Another version of the previous example. 39. I’m done talking – your turn! Another version of the previous two examples. 40. You’re making me feel uncomfortable. When you tell someone exactly and honestly how you feel, he or she can’t possibly tell you that you’re wrong! According to an article from Syque, an online psychological knowledge bank, we often avoid the truth, either because it is uncomfortable for us or (and often even more so) because it might be uncomfortable for the other person. Face-saving social rules means that we will avoid telling the truth if we think it might hurt the other person. People may take advantage of this, asserting a truth in the hope that you will say nothing. 41. Give me a minute to think that over. Use this phrase instead of an awkward pause or vocal fillers like “Uh,” or “Hmm.” This also gives you sufficient time to collect your thoughts and answer more intelligently. Because if you fall prey to answering right away just for the sake of answering right away, you answer will probably SUCK…right away. 42. I give you my word. Amazingly, I can only recall one person ever saying this phrase to me. It was the former VP of Monster.com. A few months back we met briefly (on an escalator, in fact!) to discuss possibly working together. When our conversation ended he said, “Scott, I’d love to have you contribute articles to our career database. You have my word.” Wow, did that make me feel good! Plus, I got the job. Woo hoo! 43. I’m your partner in this. Known as a “Together Phrase,” this sentence reassures your colleague or staff member. It also keeps you personally accountable by verbally declaring ownership. 44. What needs to be done immediately? Creates a “first things first” attitude. You can even spice it up with an idea quota, i.e., “What three things need to be done immediately?” This phrase puts an idea, project or plans to work right away. It also models and encourages initiative. 45. You must be very proud of that. Psychologically speaking, most men have at least some insecurity of status. Use this phrase to acknowledge and recognizes his achievements. 46. That’s my favorite problem! Sales guru Jeffrey Gitomer suggests using this whenever an upset customer calls with a complaint. It diffuses their anger and forces a positive attitude to be taken by both parties. 47. Is that a fair question to ask? This follow up question helps you (a) maintain control of the conversation and (b) confirm the validity of your question. (Not that your first question sucked. It’s just nice to reinforce the fairness of it.) Also, this follow up question increases the probability of getting a honest answer. Most of the time, someone will say, “Yeah, it is,” then give you their response. However, if they say, “Actually, that isn’t a fair question because…” then, great! You now know where you suck. Never ask that question again. 48. Did I catch you at a good time? Although it sounds super salesy - especially over the phone - it does show someone that you respect her time. Use “good” time instead of “bad” time in order to force the positive. 49. This has been a good meeting. You can always end with this. Even if the meeting included arguments, problems and the like, closing on a positive note reassures someone that good things are to come. 50. See what I mean? Use this with a visual learner to elicit the best response. 51. Do you hear what I’m saying? Use this with an auditory learner to elicit the best response. 52. Do you feel me on this one? Use this with a kinesthetic learner to elicit the best response. 53. Let’s continue this conversation. The key word here is “conversation.” This indicates your desire to create and maintain
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