Words salespeople need to use more often

I am often contacted by people seeking advice, and in most cases, I am more than willing to provide a few words of feedback to help with a particular problem. In some situations, I will ask someone in my network to also provide their insight, especially if it is a problem I can’t help with.

However, one thing surprises me. The majority of people requesting the advice seldom say please and even fewer say thank-you.

Don't get me wrong...I'm not soliciting praise or demanding recognition. But, please and thank-you are two words that are appreciated by people.

Here are a few scenarios to consider:

-- When you call a new prospect do you say, "Could you please connect me with Mr. Big?"
-- Do you thank an executive assistant, receptionist or gatekeeper when they connect you with the person you are calling?
-- Do you say please when asking someone for a favor?
-- Do you thank the person in your company who drops everything to help resolve a problem with a prospect or customer?
-- Do you include the word please when asking for help?
-- Do you thank friends, family, colleagues or customers when they refer business to you?
-- Do you thank your boss for his or her feedback and direction?

Please and thank-you can go a long way in helping you stand out from your competition. In the upcoming week, look for every opportunity to use these words and watch how people respond.