Courtesy is such an integral aspect of business in Alabama. Even an organization with no direct retail relationships has to maintain a sense of civility with internal clients and suppliers. But if you have noticed of late, courtesy is at times inconsistent and it even does a vanishing act when relationships are involved. Is good old fashioned respect and courtesy an endangered species? In this fast paced “real time” economy, is it a key differentiator in both decision making and problem solving?
There has to be something to it. We see people “lose it” in the news all the time. Athletes, pilots, and politicians are among the many professionals who have lost control of their emotions in recent weeks. This is often unpleasant to watch or read about. It can also hit home for each of us in the workplace. Have you called someone or e-mailed an individual on a critical topic and find yourself completely ignored? Have you ever been snapped at when asking a reasonable request? Have you met someone in person who is so self-evolved that this individual dismisses you without regard or purpose? It can happen. It can happen in the work environment and it can happen socially. Rude and incivility seem to be more in fashion in 2012.
Maybe it is the times. The economy is in continuous slow recovery. Gas is at four bucks. The recession has been tough. In this presidential campaign year the country continues to be divided on several topics.
But common courtesy can make a huge comeback. And it can happen as soon as today. Courtesy grows within the best skills that Dale Carnegie Training can teach: respect, relationship-nurturing, listening, and the support of others. These interpersonal skills cost each of us absolutely no money, yet together they are priceless to improve relational success. It is rare at times when the commitment and teamwork we experience each and every day are truly positive, value-driven, and partnering.
Eye contact and a warm personality in every situation just make sense. Courtesy and attitude are trainable. We learned them first in childhood. They are essential skills.
Problems are fixable things. It is as simple as common sense. All of us can set the example every day. Let us show others how to improve their success with a simple focus on courtesy and relationship. Mr. Carnegie once said to never criticize, condemn, or complain and to always give honest and sincere appreciation in every situation. It fixes common courtesy every time.
The ingredients from this article are derived from the teachings of Dale Carnegie Training. Click below for additional information.
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