“People do business with those they know, like, and trust.” – Bob Burg
Have you ever noticed that you’re more likely to say yes to those you like or are attracted to? This is the principle of liking at work.
The principle of liking states that people are more likely to do business with companies they like and feel connected to. Factors such as similarity, compliments, and cooperation can all influence our liking for someone.
Look at the story of Joe Girard, a legendary car salesman who was recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s greatest salesperson. Joe attributed much of his success to his ability to build genuine, long-lasting relationships with his customers. He sent them personalized greeting cards for every holiday, ensuring that they felt valued and remembered.
In your business, you can create lasting connections with your customers by being genuine, friendly, and approachable in your interactions with them. Show genuine interest in their needs and concerns, listen actively, and find common ground to establish rapport. Share personal stories and experiences to humanize your brand and make it relatable.
Remember that trust is the foundation of every successful business relationship. By building likability and rapport, you can foster trust and loyalty, which will not only increase the likelihood of repeat business but also encourage customers to refer their friends and family to your company.
To kickstart this, you might try sending personalized messages or thank-you notes to your customers, expressing your appreciation for their business. This simple gesture can go a long way in creating a lasting impression and building a strong relationship.
To gain more insights into the power of likability and other persuasive techniques, consider checking out the book “Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion“.