The Internet of Things, known as IoT, is the wave of the present as well as the future. Fast forward to five years later and IoT business will have grown by leaps and bounds. Web-connected appliances and other devices are being implemented left and right. Yet, merely providing IoT products and services is not enough in and of itself. Those who work in this emerging field will find a little bit of tact and diplomacy proves quite beneficial in a number of regards.
The Importance of Diplomacy and Tact
It is often said highly communicative people are problem-solvers as well as problem-preventers. The sad truth is most people struggle to communicate or are unwilling to put forth the effort necessary to communicate to the proper degree. Communication can be improved with diplomacy and tact. This statement rings especially true in the midst of negotiations, marketing, and sales attempts.
Make an effort to be tactful and diplomatic and you will find your professional relationships with colleagues improve that much more. People really do respect those who are willing to put an effort to be tactful. Practice such mindfulness in the workplace and you will prove that much more tactful when dealing with others outside of work.
Let’s take a look at the prerequisites for diplomacy and tact:
The Prerequisites to Become Tactful and Diplomatic
Tact and diplomacy do not come naturally to most people. Those who are truly tactful are willing to admit there are some important prerequisites of note. For one, tactful and diplomatic people tend to have a high emotional intelligence. Those with a comparably high level of emotional intelligence find diplomacy and tact quite natural when interacting with others.
Emotional intelligence is distinct from traditional intelligence in that it measures how well one understands his or her emotions as well as others’ emotions. This emotional intelligence empowers people to empathize with others, interact with them in a careful manner and build/retain a meaningful rapport. This is the rapport necessary to satisfy team members and help your IoT business reach its potential.
Tact and Diplomacy Hinge on Listening Skills
It is not enough to listen to someone, remember what they said and respond in a respectful manner. It is not always the words that matter the most. Rather, it is the tone used when speaking those words. Key in on the subtleties of speech and you will be able to truly understand others and respond in a caring manner.
Be Polite
Courtesy is essential to understanding others. Be as polite as possible. Respect cultural differences— listen closely and you will be revered as a true diplomat.
Be Assertive
Part of the reason to be tactful and diplomatic is to convince others to act or think as desired. Assertive individuals are typically outnumbered by those who are non-assertive simply because assertiveness requires considerable effort. Apply yourself, be proactive, establish relationships with as many colleagues as possible and your assertiveness will convince others to act as you wish.
Everyone Has the Potential to be Diplomatic and Tactful
Too many people assume they cannot interact with others in a tactful manner as they are introverted or inexperienced. In reality, everyone can be tactful and diplomatic if they are willing to put forth the effort. Think of yourself and your IoT business as works in progress that will eventually culminate in diplomacy, tact, and most importantly, an improved bottom line.