Today's blog post is a simple reminder that small words can make a big difference to your entire business.
As a leader, I often cringe when I hear "I" vs. "we" or "work for" vs. "work with." This may seem very trivial for some, however to employees, clients, partners, referral sources or vendors it's so important for everyone to know we are a team - no matter what. Retaining great employees and delivering the best client service requires a team effort, and each member of the team needs to know they are valued.
I don't want to tell a client that "I" am completing something for them when I know that "we" will definitely be completing the project as a team. I want them to know that we have built an organization we are proud of and that there is much more to it than just me. When I introduce a team member, I make a point to say that they "work with" me as opposed to saying that they "work for" me. I want clients and team members to know that the person they are meeting is important and that I value their input, their knowledge, and their teamwork.
These little word differences mean big things to those who are listening.
Jeff
"A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves." - Lao Tzu