eHomemakers Malaysia

Some first-time conversations over the phone leave you feeling happy and upbeat, whilst others make you cringe. Which experience would you like your customers to have? A few weeks ago, I had tried out for a voiceover (my first time ever!) Whilst I put the huge headphones on, the technician moved a stand aside so that they could see my face clearly. That particular script needed a lot of emotion in it. Whatever I felt as I read the short script would be reflected on my face. Which in turn, could be heard in my voice. The truth that we sometimes forget is that our voices can easily convey happiness, irritation, joy, hope, nervousness and more. Half the time we are not even aware of how much our voices are telling the world about our emotions. What does this mean for you as a businessperson? It means that no matter how you feel deep down inside, you’ve got to pretend to be happy, energetic and excited when you speak over the phone (unless it’s a negative situation). On a ...

Is it worthwhile spending your time with a customer who isn’t going to buy much from you? Is how you communicate with this small customer important? YES! We all know it but small business owners still break this golden rule, resulting in a loss of repeat customers who may bring in big business. Here’s an example. Caught in an unexpected situation, I had to buy a new handphone. Since I only needed something very basic it automatically meant a lower end model that did not cost much. At the first outlet, the owner looked disgusted when I told him what I was looking for. I fled from his sneering arrogant attitude. The young “punk” seated at the next outlet made my heart sink. I should have remembered not to judge a book by its cover. He turned out to be a load of surprises. Politely, the young lad me relevant models. Patiently, he explained the features of the different handphones. I was impressed. Along the way, he did politely inquire why I didn’t go for a higher end mo...

“She only ordered my products a year after I had met her,” explained the young entrepreneur. “He didn’t need my services. But he did recommend them to his network of contacts,” declared another lady who had ventured out into the catering services on a small scale. That’s what a couple of persons have told me over the past few months. You must be wondering what their secret to attracting customers is. These are hardworking individuals who are passionate about their products and services. There is one other thing that I’ve noticed about them. The way they communicate with people. When they take up a booth at a small bazaar, they don’t just focus on a one-off sale. Its not just a “What is in it for me right now?” attitude.   Instead they communicate well with buyers and those who are obviously just window-shopping for the day. These smart entrepreneurs ask the right questions, they offer suggestions and help, and take criticism with a smile. H ome entrepreneurs seem to ...