Permission is given to reprint the following articles, provided that the following contact information is provided in its entirety. 

© by Bonnie Budzowski, President of InCredible Messages, LP. 
Visit  www.IncredibleMessages.com or contact Bonnie at info@IncredibleMessages.com. 

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You’re a Star Performer:
Do You Need People to Like You?

By Bonnie Budzowski
President, InCredible Messages, LP

Technical whiz kids, scientists, and others professionals focus on increasing their skills: the goal is to be an expert in their chosen field. While education and expertise are important, researchers now insist that more is needed for success. The highest levels of achievement come to those who mix expertise with likeability.

Research studies consistently reveal that people respond positively to others whom they like. People prefer to do business with and to buy products from people they like. Mitch Anthony, author of Selling with Emotional Intelligence, puts it succinctly, “Likeability is as important as ability.”

While you may not officially be in sales, you must sell your ideas, your credibility, and your recommendations every day. Here are some suggestions:

• Accept the fact that developing likeability is an important success strategy.
• Find and mention the points of contact or similarity you have with others.
• Learn to listen respectfully and to demonstrate an open mind.
• Engage in small courtesies and expressions of appreciation, regardless of the other person’s formal status.
• Learn to keep gossip, unkind words, and disparaging remarks unsaid.
• Take time to laugh with others.
• Choose a likeability mentor—observe and learn from someone who excels in likeability.

Remember to balance expertise with likeability; it a proven formula for success.

Permission is granted to reprint this article when the following contact information is included: © 2010 by Bonnie Budzowski, President of InCredible Messages, LP. For more free articles, go to www.IncredibleMessages.com or contact Bonnie at info@IncredibleMessages.com.

Bonnie Budzowski, President of inCredible Messages, is a recognized expert—helping people to use influence and persuasion to sell their ideas and move business forward. Bonnie is a professional speaker, author and coach. She recently launched a new coaching project to help her clients "Write the Book of Their Dreams."

Clients appreciate Bonnie’s practical, humorous and high-energy approach. She holds an MA in Communication and has been called upon to work with corporations, entrepreneurs, universities, and associations.

If you’d like to sell your ideas, boost your influence, or advance your career through a book or presentation, call Bonnie at 412-828-1629, bonnie@inCredibleMessages.com or visit her website at www.inCredibleMessages.com. 

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