The power of being polished

As a polished individual, more doors open up to you. It becomes that much easier to close sales. Photo/FILE

What you need to know:

  • As a polished individual, more doors open up to you. It becomes that much easier to close sales.

When you speak, look and act with refinement, the world pays attention.

As a polished individual, more doors open up to you. It becomes that much easier to close sales.

As a professional, you appear more credible as people hang onto your every word without doubting you.

This is the secret that many people with lower levels of education, who have succeeded immensely, know.

This is what causes certain people with little or no credentials to be promoted over those who are in some cases, over-qualified for their jobs.

People gravitate towards others who seem to have an upper edge. It is extremely simple to acquire polish.

Please note that this is not a bid to seem superior or snobbish. It is a way of improving your interactions so that you have positive impact on others.

Avoid putting on airs and graces as these will simply repel others. Do not talk down to others; instead, be courteous and understanding.

All you need is a dose of confidence to pull it off. Here are some ways to get you started.

1. Create the first impressions with your pose

Always hold your head as though you are wearing a crown of gold. The steady, high held royal pose will make others stop and listen to you.

Turn your head slowly at all times and avoid rapid blinking. If you keep your head down, turn quickly and jerkily, you will appear unconfident and unassuming.

2. Sound powerful

Even though you were not born with a deep, booming baritone, you can train yourself to sound more powerful by practicing elocution.

Pace your words and your breathing. A low voice exudes more authority than a high one does.

3. Sound more polished

Extend your vocabulary and grammar in the language you use most often. Make an impression by using words and expressions that drive the point home in a poetic manner.

Being polished is not limited to the English language. You can be a very suave Swahili speaker by taking a course in Tanzanian Swahili.

To sound extremely polished try to speak a language the way its natives speak it.

4. Learn basics of etiquette

Good etiquette helps you fit into every situation and increases your confidence.

You know you have it down pat when you are able to mingle at all levels, without anyone guessing your socio-economic status.

It works in your favour when you are nice and kind to people and they respond well to you.

-Irene Njoroge (etiquette lecturer)