17-Sep-2009

Smile

Fortune Will Return the Favor

You’ve probably heard about how the act of smiling affects your mood (endorphins, serotonin… these things immediately kick in). Did you know smiling also affects your tone of voice? Smiling during a conversation not only helps you feel better, but the other person, just by seeing your smile and hearing your voice, feels better too.

It even works on the phone. Here’s a technique folks in phone sales use: Keep a small mirror on your desk, positioned just at the right angle so you can easily see yourself. Then, as a habit, take a look in the mirror when you are on the phone and smile at the person you see. Even if you feel silly, do it anyway. A little bit of whimsy goes a long way. You’ll feel better, and the person on the other end will notice. Even though they might not see you, they’ll hear that swing in your step… and your communication will be a success.

Recommended: Power of a Simple Smile