As a recruiter, one of my primary job functions is to meet and be met. Is every potential job candidate or hiring authority memorable? Certainly not. But some more than others, and for reasons that are surprisingly subtle.
George Bernard Shaw once said, “The problem with communication … is the illusion that it has been accomplished.” To shatter that illusion – and by that I mean communicate more effectively and make a more memorable impression on those you meet – try these tips.
And practice your delivery. Does that sound phony or insincere? Impossible – since your goal is to be heard, understood and remembered. There’s nothing phony about wanting to accomplish that.
Most important – pair the ability to say these things (in person, on the phone, via email) with good listening skills and you’re on your way to making a good impression, being remembered – and then cementing that relationship.
1. “Maurice. Maurice Gilbert.”
Just met someone? The repetition of your first name plants it firmly in the mind of the person you are shaking hands with or speaking to on the phone. Bonus points: say their name twice when introduced and you’re more likely to remember it.
2. “I’ve heard some great things about you.”
This one’s a bit of a cliché, but not if you can back it up with examples. Repeating a third-party’s compliment is flattery that is absolutely sincere and genuine, so it’s an excellent way to generate good will with the person you’ve just met.
3. “Let’s strike while the iron is hot!”
How often do we say, “We should do lunch sometime!” but then never actually follow through? If you don’t mean it, don’t say it. And when you mean it, commit to a date and put it on your calendar right then.
4. “I think we have something in common.”
Nothing forms bonds better than something held in common. Food, geography, people you both know – find something to help you make a connection. If you go overboard, you’ll come off like a stalker, so moderate here. And as with these other tips, be sincere.
5. When leaving a name and phone number, speak slowly enough for someone to actually write it down.
I receive voicemails constantly from potential job candidates. You’d be surprised how many of them race through leaving identifying information. If you want your call returned, make it easy to do so.
Maurice Gilbert is Managing Partner of Conselium Executive Search, which specializes in placing Compliance Officers and Legal Counsel for clients in the U.S., Europe, Latin America and Asia Pacific. Maurice is also CEO of Corporate Compliance Insights, a worldwide publication devoted to governance, risk and compliance issues. Maurice can be reached at maurice@conselium.com or maurice@corporatecomplianceinsights.com.
