I was presenting something completely new today, one time only, and had a meeting with a potential buyer. They wanted to see me, as we both know this could be a substantial opportunity for them.
About twenty minutes in, they lost focus, became bitter. We continued, because they were and are still interested, seeing a potential windfall. Ten minutes later, I was gone. They had all the detail they needed, so we are both considering while I chat with some other buyers.
Driving away, I was reflecting how civility, manners and optimism, may or may not have anything to do with the final outcome, but sure make meetings more productive, increasing the possibility of unexpected benefit.
Sure, we could radiate professional boredom, but I wonder how many opportunities are missed after we’ve gone to the trouble of getting face-to-face?
This was a wakeup call for me. Civility improves board work, committee work, and team work.
Or, consider Selling Innovative…
When faced with a new idea or approach, people need an opportunity to challenge and understand the concept before they can make a change. Civility instead of ‘attitude’ or brash comments permit the conversation to continue and avoids triggering an emotional instead of a rational response.
Having a discussion, instead of reciting a script, allows both parties the opportunity to come to a common understanding of what’s offered and what’s needed. This won’t be accomplished in a hostile or demeaning environment.
As you point out, civility is a useful lubricant to discovery and ultimate understanding.