Did you know that May is National Smile Month? Depending on where you live in the world, you may not. It actually began in the United Kingdom and is now one of the biggest not-for-profit events in Europe. It is managed by the British Dental Health Foundation in an effort to promote good oral health. I applaud the cause, but I see National Smile Month as having implications for the business world beyond dentistry.
Think about what a smile can mean for your business. What if every customer who walked through your door was greeted with a smile? What if every customer who called your business could hear you smiling over the phone? When the transaction was over, how would your customers feel if you smiled and thanked them for their business?
Do you think it would impact your bottom line? The answer is obvious. A smile is one of the easiest ways to build your business. Not only do your customers feel good, you and your employees get the same positive benefit.
Some days you may not feel like smiling. Perhaps it is late in the afternoon and you haven't had a chance to eat your lunch. Just as you head to an out-of-the-way spot to grab your sandwich, someone walks in the door. You really have to work to smile. Perhaps the last person you spoke to on the phone just chewed you out. When the phone rings again, if you haven't recovered from that unpleasant experience, a grin is hard to come by. Every customer deserves a pleasant greeting no matter how you feel.
In addition to exceptional services and products, people want three things from those with whom they do business. None of the three will cost you a cent. People want and need:
- Eye contact
- A smile
- To hear their name
If you and your employees didn't practice smiling during the month of May, it is not too late. Do it every day from now on, make it a priority and reap the benefits.
Happy smiles to all,
P.S. If you want to see a smile from that soon-to-be college or high school graduate, give them a copy of Manners That Sell - Adding the Polish that Builds Profits.
P.P.S If you want a smile from your colleagues, associates or staff, offer them a live session on business etiquette with me at your next meeting or conference.
About Lydia Ramsey
Lydia Ramsey is a Savannah-based business etiquette expert, executive etiquette coach, professional speaker and author of Manners That Sell™, offering keynotes and seminars to corporations, associations, colleges and universities. To learn more about Lydia, her services and products, go to her website, Manners That Sell.
If you would like to have Lydia speak at your next meeting or conference contact her online or call her at 912-598-9812.
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