How to be a Persuasive Co-Worker

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It’s a fierce world out there. Competition for choice careers is high and in order to stay on top of your game, you need to stand out as much as you can. There are several ways to make your mark in the office from the overt (like showing up early or closing the most deals) to the covert…which we’ll cover today. Some of the most successful people in your office you’ll notice are the ones who don’t work themselves into a sweaty pulp by 4pm. The most successful people are often the most persuasive!

Persuasive people are masters at casting their point of view in the most positive light. They can influence others into agreeing with them simply by employing a few verbal and physical techniques that will inevitably play persuasive mind games with the other person. Master these techniques, and you’ll stand out from your competition as the valuable and persuasive asset that you are!

So buckle up, young Jedi: it’s time for class.

1. Mirror body language. A lot of people will talk about not crossing your arms or legs to appear more “open” to the other person. Do not. Subconsciously, the person you’re talking to will “see themselves” in you and will be more likely to believe that you two are of the same mind.

2. Speak with confidence. This one seems like a no-brainer, but think about it. When you watch a presidential debate, are you going to feel comfortable supporting the guy sheepishly staring at his shoes or mumbling “Well…So…Uh…” Probably not. Make definitive statements! Stand your ground! You’re a lion! Hear you roar!

3. But don’t yell. Or wave your arms. This is a complicated dance you’re doing, balancing gestures and vocal patterns to sound strong and assertive without seeming like a crazy person. Speak deliberately, politely, smile on occasion and actually…..

4. LISTEN. Pause and listen to what the other person is saying. Not  only do you give your sparring partner a chance to voice their opinion, it shows respect, and they will see that and be more likely to reciprocate and listen to your point of view as a result. Plus, it gives you a chance to plan your  next move.

5. Compliment sincerely. When you listen to what they are saying, take a step back and verbally acknowledge something that they said. “I see what you’re saying,” “That’s an excellent point,” and “I agree” are a few useful phrases that will open the other person up to your perspective and will actually get them to parrot you back!

6. Transfer your energy. Make eye contact, touch their shoulder, or laugh. These acts make you seem strong and confident and like someone they want to follow and listen to.

7. Have good posture. This goes along with transferring your energy. But if you stand tall, you’ll be more imposing and seem like an authority.

8. Create opportunities. Consistently referring to the person you are talking to and offering them a chance to participate in the conversation, the project, the campaign, etc. makes them feel like they are being brought into an exclusive club. And who doesn’t like that? You are bringing them under your wing and showing them a whole new world. Bring them on board that flying carpet and make them feel like they are getting the experience of a lifetime by going your way.

9. Create scarcity. Push them. Express the idea that you are only accepting ten more applicants, or that the sale is only going on for a few more days. That sort of timeline will more often than not assuage them of any notion that they have time to think about what you’re saying and thus deny you.

10. Review. Get your last words out and close hard. Review your key points whatever it is you are trying to accomplish, do it. “Great, so let’s get started.” “Sounds like we’re good to go.” “Let’s proceed.” You see? You’re ready to get going, aren’t you?

 

 

We’re expanding! AGAIN!!

 

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Fast Trak is happy to announce the opening of a third location in Tysons Corner! Due to top notch performance from our employees, we have been able to triple the size of our business this year!!  We plan to continue shattering new records every month and expanding until Fast Trak is a household name! Come check us out at our new location on November 2nd!!

1880 Howard Ave. Suite 201

Vienna, VA 22182

 

 

Fiber Optic Friday!!

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Happy Fiber Optic Friday Everyone!! Here are four fun facts about fiber optics for you to kick off the weekend with!!

1. Fiber optics use Light! Thats right, no electricity passes through fiber optic cables. This also means there is no heat (and no fire hazards!!).

2. Fiber optics are green!! Since fiber optics use no electricity, there is less energy flowing threw them!! Less power means less carbon output and lower emissions!!

3. Fiber optics aren’t influenced by the weather!! Yup you heard that correctly, fiber optics can’t be influenced by rain, heat, or snow!

4. Fiber optics makes a house worth more!! Fiber optic services add a whopping $5,000 to the perceived value of a home! WOW!!

Fast Trak’s Book Recommendation!

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Looking for another read this summer? be sure to check out Rework by Jason Fried!! It focuses on a better, faster, way to succeed in business. Fried goes against standard business models, encouraging people to avoid plans, not use outside investors, and ignore the competition. The book argues that people spend too much time with paperwork and meetings instead of getting work done. Fried offers ideas to help be more productive, get cheap exposure and lots of counterintuitive ideas to advance your business. This book is the perfect way to kick off your weekend!! Happy Friday Everyone!

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