People skills are essential in the road to the sale. Communicating properly with the customer is key. In part 1 of this 2-part Big Time Thinking podcast. Terry talks about a few of the simple things that can be done to improve our people skills and our business.

Eighty-five percent of your business and career success is based on your ability to use great people skills. With a stat like that, it’s clear that this is something that needs to be developed to grow your business and dealership. So here are some of Terry’s tips to improve this crucial selling tool to help grow dealership.

First, drop the gadgets. Technology while being a wonderful thing. Has made it that people skills have become eroded. When you’re with a customer. Leave the phone alone. When they are talking to you they notice. By picking up the phone while they are talking creates the impression that them and what they have to say isn’t important. You just lost your customer.

Make it about your customers not about us. Listen to what they need. This plays right into being an active listener. Don’t just wait for your turn to talk. Give fewer speeches. Really listen to what they want and need that way you can provide them with outstanding personal service. Ask questions to engage the customer and hang on to every word. Really listen to what the customer says.

And lastly, use professional language. Don’t fall into curse words or the trending slang at the time. Avoid politics and religion. And just be a straightforward professional who cares about the customers' wants and needs. Use proper tone and inflections in your voice, give the customer affirmations that you are listening.

I promise if you take these to heart not only will you scale your business and dealership. You’ll see better reviews, customers will remember you as a very professional and had an amazing experience. It’s time to think Big Time.