With the environment that we all find ourselves in, emotions are running high and logic is out the window. Business itself can be an emotional trip just on its own so don’t fall into the trap of allowing yourself to be emotionally compromised when dealing with a customer, or negotiating that important deal that you have been working on for months or even years.

Strictly business please! Veering too far from the business at hand will inadvertently land you in trouble and say goodbye to that sale.

Topic to stay away from:

Of course, politics

Religion

Health (you never know if the person you are talking with is in a traumatic health situation)

Family and Relationship issues

Gossip (this can also get you in a heap of legal trouble)

Personal Finances

Co-Workers and Management

Expensive purchases

Child rearing practices

Sex and related topics

Never brag

Topic that are relatively safe to talk about:

Pets (who does not want to talk about Fido?)

Travel

Hobbies

Favorite movies

Television shows

Your favorite restaurants

Cars

Holidays

Hiking or walking trails

There are those in the business world that do nothing but try to trigger you or try bait you into being emotionally compromised, working to throw you off your game. Many believe that the first one who loses their cool will ultimately sign a bad deal, this rule is generally true.

Be positive and upbeat in your approach in everything that you do. It may irritate some, but most folks like to be around positive people, besides, it will make you feel better and add to your self-esteem.

All things change, be yourself (the positive one) because someone else is already being taken. Know your triggers and when you are being triggered. Stay cool and focused on the business at hand. Be logical and take notes. Why take notes? Weather or not you are emotionally compromised or have no idea if you are, this process helps you remember with accuracy. If you don’t take notes and you are compromised you may have to rely on the party with whom you are negotiating with for the facts and we all know we are not always in control of the facts.

Make news do not be the news, be positive and make the sale, provide great service, and be prideful in your work that builds self-esteem and continues your success and referrals.

Allawos & Company has helped countless individuals and companies alike reach their goals and discover new potential.