It always amazes me how intelligent, wonderful people can so rapidly turn into a stereotype called “The Blurter".

Last year it happened to me at a tradeshow. Someone who was a graphic designer came up to me and started to offer a critique of my marketing materials - without asking me for permission. On and on she went - and inside I was going "Oh honey, this is SO not the way to attract my business."

She didn't ask questions. All she offered was negative feedback. Why? She was trying to convince me to purchase her services instead. And at the end of it - to top it all off - when I asked for her business card - she says “Oh - it is at the printer” ...and she gave me a ripped piece of paper with her name and business scribbled on it.

Where did her credibility go in that moment?

You guessed it - right down the tubes.

You Attract More Flies With Honey Than Vinegar

I love this expression! Remember - you may have the best ideas, the best customer service, the most amazing, life and business changing product on the market - but if you are a Big, Bad Blurter you will only repel business from you.

For example - if you sold weight loss pills and then walked up to an unsuspecting overweight individual and said “You’re fat - you need to buy my diet pills" - I guarantee they wouldn't be looking at you with love and appreciation in their eyes! "

Instead of offering "un-asked- for" opinions - provide positive suggestions and ideas instead! As my friend Pat always says to her children:”Don’t tell me. Show me."

Don't Frenzy In Front Of A Potential Customer!

Have you ever watched a TV program on Great White sharks? Whenever meat is put into the water - the sharks circle it, and as they approach to attack their "victim", their second set of eye-lids roll up - (sort of looks like something from the Exorcist!) This extra set of lids protects them when their "victim" fights back.

The sharks flail around blindly, chomping the hell out of their prey and when it is over, they need a Pepto Bismol and a cigarette.

As for the prey? You guessed it - not much of them to speak of.

It is hard enough to watch on TV - but it truly is shocking when you see it in business!

Are you pulling a JAWS with your customer?

Here Are Five Signs To Look For:

1) You Don't Ask Questions.

2) You Don't Listen

3) Your Potential Customer Looks They Want To Run

4) You Don't Follow Up

5) You Don't Get Much Business or Repeat Business

So whatever happened to the Big, Bad Blurter that I ran into?

Well, she pulled a #4 and didn't follow-up.

The piece of ragged paper went into the garbage.

I continue to work with the same fabulous designers that provide me with amazing results.

End of Diva story!