Wowing the Receptionist...  A Powerful Ally!

Article Date: May 29, 2006

The receptionist is usually a center of public opinion at any given organization.  She also often screens phone calls.  We need her on our side...  so here is what Mr. Shmooze likes to do with this often under-appreciated V.I.P.

When I walk into the lobby and the receptionist looks up and says, "May I help you?" ...rather than just saying, "I'm here to meet Mr. Smith"...  I use a different technique.

I like to walk up to the receptionist, reach out my hand and say, "I'm Mr. Shmooze."  Hopefully, the receptionist will respond with her name (Mary) as she is shaking my hand, but if not, I'll ask (smiling), "And you are?"

Then I say, "Mary, it's very nice to meet you...  I'm here to see Mr. Smith."  We then engage in some small talk, and later when I leave the meeting, I always stop at the desk again, and address her by name one more time:  "Mary, it was nice meeting you.  Thank you for your help."

Sounds basic, but by paying just a little extra attention, by engaging, and by addressing the receptionist personally by name, I guarantee you will be the buzz of the coffee room and will be treated with kindness and courtesy the next time you call.  Remember...  addressing her by name is the standout differentiator and the bridge to a much higher level of intimacy than most of your competitors will bother to establish.

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