Somewhere in the book of clichés is a saying that takes us to Rome and has us doing what the Romans do.
You might want to rethink that one!
Why?
Because chances are superb that you will piss off lots of “Non Romans”!
For example:
Let’s say you are a tried and true conservative and so is your client. So there you are in their cubicle and the conversation comes around to politics. Now you know its cool with this client because you’ve gone down this road before and quite frankly it seems this is your conservative brother from a way cool conservative mother.
Well, what the heck . . . when in Rome. Right dude?
What about those who happen to be within earshot who have a different perspective?
But that’s all good because they aren’t the decision maker so you’re still golden.
Not really!
They might have your contact’s boss’s ear or they might even be the boss.
And since things always change, who knows what kind of future influence this person will have.
Now you have a “Non Roman” enemy because you didn’t think out your actions.
Sounds kind of 101 ish right?
Think again because this trap has many different ways to lure you in brochocho!
I’ve seen this with people who make the “When In Rome” mistake with religion!
I’ve seen this with people who think its alright to use really bad language (of the F-Bomb variety) because a few “Romans” were cool with it. Actually I sort of lied on this one. I didn’t just see this one . . . I made the mistake of doing it a few years back. Yep, pretty dumb!
I’ve seen people fall into this type of trap in telling a dirty joke to someone they know is cool with it but those dang “Non Romans” get miffed.
And just to make the “When In Rome” mistake more interesting, I’ve seen people aggravate 10’s of thousands of “Non Romans” through social media by making the assumption that they are doing as the Romans do!
So here’s the deal folks, you can easily make the mistake of getting lured into a discussion or even a behavior that seems perfectly harmless in every way . . . all because you weren’t aware of the “Non Romans”
And one more thing, isn’t this a silly reason to create groups of people who you’ve alienated based on your opinions and non business related actions?
I want to leave you with a final thought and will need your feedback, so please don’t leave us just yet . . .
There are many people who feel that its actually quite healthy to discuss religion, politics etc with clients because its yet another area where you can connect.
Some feel its all part of adapting to the client/prospect.
Your Turn . . .
Do you agree with that or should we avoid controversial topics and keep our “main thing the main thing”
Then at least have a quick look at these online programs launching this month!
Our next online sales program starts September 24th! Click here for details!
Our new How To Hunt More Effectively program starts on September 17th. Click here for details!
