What Goes Around Comes Around

So Only Use Phrases Clients Like to Hear

“I’ve been thinking about you

I’ve been thinking about you

I’ve been thinking about you.”

from I’ve Been Thinking About You by Londonbeat

When I read the article “11 Phrases That People Love to Hear," written by Michael Thompson, I immediately fell in love with the simplicity of the phrases and the huge impact they have on creating positivity in a conversation.

Many of those phrases absolutely have a place in sales. Because what goes around comes around. Salespeople are continuously looking for ways to create positivity in their engagement with clients: showing an interest in their business, being excited about showing a new feature or sharing the innovative nature of their product, or an exceptional ROI.

This can also be achieved by using the phrases below. They make people smile.

1. “I was thinking about you.”

Who does not like to hear that? The thought can be a personal one (“I’ve been thinking about you, and I hope you are doing better.”). And it can also be business-related (“I was at x conference and thought this would be beneficial for you.”) If you are thinking about someone — let them know. The best part about this phrase is that it's true. Every day we think about other people, and telling them when we are can only strengthen a relationship. "I was thinking about you, and it dawned on me that we haven’t spoken in a while.” “I’m so glad you called. I’ve been thinking of you.”

2. “What do you think?”

“I’m curious about your experience with x.” “Can you tell me more about w?” “I’d love to get your opinion on y.” “Can I get your advice on z?”

Most people love to share their experiences. They love to talk about their lessons learned. They love to know that their voice is respected, and people appreciate their perspectives. So, when speaking to someone about a topic that is clearly important to them, ask them to share their thoughts. It’s a guaranteed way of making people think highly of you.

3. “I like the way you see the world.”

I don’t know about you, but I love to be told that I’m interesting. “Every time we talk, I learn something new.” “That’s interesting. I never thought of it like that before.” These phrases send me flying.

Give them a shot for yourself. The next time someone tells you something interesting, fire back by telling them how interesting they are. Few phrases make people feel more special than the words “I like the way you think.”

4. “The last time we spoke, you told me X.”

This phrase makes me feel like the person really cares about me. And is a really good listener.

“The last time we spoke, you told me about your new project. How’s it going?” “The last time we spoke, you told me your mother wasn’t doing well. I hope she’s feeling better.” No detail is too small for this one. In fact, the smaller the detail, the better. Following up about their mother is silver. Asking about her by name is gold. The greatest compliment you can give to someone is to show them that you are listening to them.

5. “I followed your advice.”

Knowing that I have steered someone in the right direction on something makes me feel good about myself. “I followed your advice, and each night I lock my computer up in the trunk of my car to better disconnect from work. It’s been a godsend. Thank you.” People love it when people listen to them. But they really love it when they are told that they have been helpful and their words have had a positive effect on someone else's life.

6. “I really admire X about you.”

Every single person in the world has admirable qualities. Being on the lookout for them and letting them know how much you respect them has never damaged a relationship.

“I really admire how great you are with your team. They really respond well to you.” This is a good place to get specific and spot small details or notice how they have improved in an area that you know is important to them: “Wow. Your Spanish has really gotten better.”

7. “I love your energy.”

I don’t have the data on this, but I would be willing to bet that not one person on the planet has walked away with a sour look on their face after hearing the words — “You have the best energy. I always feel better after spending time with you.”

“I love your vibe.” “I really admire how positive you always are.” Sure, these may sound a bit cheesy. But if I’ve learned anything in my 54-years, it’s that allowing yourself to be cheesy from time to time is one of the best things you can do for your relationships.

8. “I saw x, and it reminded me of you.”

If you heard a song that reminds you of the summer 09’ — send it to the friend you used to listen to it with. If you watched a movie and it reminded you of someone — let them know. And if you read an interesting business article – share it with a client. Everyone loves unexpected gifts at unexpected times.

None of these phrases are all that complicated. In fact, most of the phrases and the words that make them up are pretty small. And if you really need a reason to use them, consider that what goes around will come around. And negativity has never closed a sale.

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Michael Thompson – 11 Phrases That People Love to Hear

Photo by Anne Gosewehr