Gatekeepers!
Leslie's post made me realize that in my job I ALWAYS have to show negative politeness. I am currently an intern for Aflac insurance, but I am liscensed to sell as well. When I am out cold calling on businesses I must keep use negative politeess at all times. I usually ask "Hello, I am wondering if it's possible to meet with whoever is in charge with your employee benifets?" I've realized however that the gatekeepers are more reluctant to use positive politeness though. They just say yes or remain more casual as I remain more formal. It is possibly just an unconcious reaction. I wonder why this is though? Any ideas?
Comments
I am not sure what "negative politeness" is. The best way around gatekeepers is to be a friend to them. Ask them what the business does, ask them how many people work there, ask them how long they have worked there. Notice things around them that are interesting; get them to warm up to you. The "politeness" that I believe you should use with gatekeepers is to ask them "can you help me please?" or "Will you help me please?" When they say yes then say, "I need to talk to businesses that may possibly need enhancement to their benefits and I don't know who to talk to in your (gatekeepers) business? Is there a way you can tell me who deals with benefits here?" "Is there anyway I can get an appointment or time to meet?" "Are you able to help me?" And then of course, "thank you, thank you, thank you!"
I am proud of you Charity. Your blog came up on my daily Aflac alerts.