Being able to interact and talk with clients is essential to good relationships!
We can consider three aspects of communication with clients in addressing the need to communicate effectively. First, communicating with your clients has become more complex as the methods of communication have expanded and face-to-face interaction is limited. You can become more aware of the strengths and limitations of the types of technology you choose for typical client communications so that you use the best technology for the message. A second aspect is understanding how your communication sounds to others so you communicate clearly. Finally, let’s see how to take your interaction to the next level by learning how to appeal to your clients’ wants and needs for what you tell them and how you say it.
To Text or Not to Text?
Snail mail, email, phone call, or text? Which communication method do you choose? Consider the length and specificity of the information you want to communicate. Official papers may go snail mail, while shorter, more informal information can be emailed. A phone call is most effective if you want direct interaction! And a text can be useful if you want to send a short message without interrupting someone’s day. You probably prefer one or two of these methods of communication, and you will want to find out what your clients prefer, as well. Tailoring your communication to the medium and to the message makes it more effective.
How Does Your Communication Sound to Others?
Do you sound friendly and happy? Or direct and forceful? Do you speak in comfortable generalities or with cool, hard facts? My natural style of communication reflects my personality and my abilities, what I like to call Personability. Because we have different Personabilities, we may not communicate easily with some clients, especially if our styles are very different. In a previous blog post, we talked more about individual communication styles, so I hope you actively learn about your style and how you can be more effective in your communication. These steps are a path to increasing your effectiveness in communication!
Expand your client impact by speaking to their wants and needs, using these 4 steps:
1. Aware – It is important to be aware of your personal communication style as well as those of your clients. Consider your client’s preferred communication choices both technologically and informationally. What is the depth and scope of the information they need?
2. Understand – Your awareness of your client’s preferences and expectations will help you understand how to focus your communication with them whether you are speaking or writing to them.
3. Act – Your awareness and understanding will lead you to act in a way that appeals to your client. Your writing and speaking should reflect that. When addressing a group you need more than one approach to reach them all.
4. Transform – Winsome Personability and persuasive information will transform your client communications!
We have tools and coaching available for you to increase the effectiveness of your client communication. It’s always smart to evaluate different options and consider the advantages and disadvantages of each. The experienced team at MSM Advisors can help you choose which plan is right for you. Call today at 678-804-5530 to schedule a consultation or visit us online for more information.
About the Author – Authored by Dr. Julie Cross
Julie Anne Cross, Ph.D., a performance strategist, has trained and coached leaders, managers, and teams in business, government, and nonprofit organizations, focusing on strategies for engaging performance for more than 20 years. As a gifted facilitator and presenter, she has spoken to hundreds of people and worked with small groups, as well as coaching individuals using the Impact Prism, a behavior profile which is an expansion of the DISC Model of Human Behavior. Dr. Cross is a published author and has created materials on self-awareness and personal development. She has developed the Impact Wheel and the Impact Prism to offer the individual an exciting opportunity for personal and professional growth. Visit her website Impact Prism to learn more.
