Commonis

We CAN make an impact on our business simply by improving our communication skills. 

Did you know the word “communication” derives its origin from the Latin word “commonis, which means to have “in common?” 

If we are to truly communicate, we’ve got to discover what we have in common with others, and use that to build a relational bridge. 

To discover what we have in common, we’ve got to look past what appears to be and discover what really is.

Recently, while I was visiting a prospect, I saw an inappropriately dressed man coming out of an office. 

At first, I was tempted to simply pass him by in favor of the important looking people. 

However, I resisted that thought and introduced myself. After talking to him, I discovered that he was an important decision-maker. 

We did actually have a lot “in common”. If I had judged him by his appearance, I would have missed the opportunity to talk.

Next, I made a call to another prospect. I told myself that it was a waste of time since they didn’t appear to need my product. 

After I walked onto their parking lot, several employees became excited because they had a damaged piece of equipment in the back that needed fixing. 

We actually did have something in common after all, but I would have never discovered it if I hadn’t looked past the fact that they appeared to have no need for my product.

In the Bible (John 4), there is an amazing example of Jesus looking past appearances to build a relational bridge. 

Once while Jesus was traveling through a hostile region named Samaria, he encountered a woman at a well who was probably a social outcast. 

On face value, they had nothing in common, but Jesus knew better. 

He began by talking about what they did have in common - They were both thirsty. After Jesus reached out to her by asking HER for help (a drink from her pitcher), she became the key that unlocked the door to that community.

Some authors suggest that the words “human”, “humility”, and “humor” all share a “common” Indo-European root word, “ghom” best translated by the English word “humus”; 

therefore, let’s see what these three words have in common to improve our prospect strategy.

 First, we should treat all people with respect simply because they are humans with feelings just like we have and avoid relating to people strictly on status. 

Next, we should practice humility by striving to make everyone else feel good about THEMSELVES. 

Finally, we should utilize humor to lighten up, enjoy life, and not take everything so seriously. Do these three things to find the key and unlock the prospect’s door.