The Five Love Languages…of Business?

I was grabbing coffee with a friend a few weeks ago and she was telling me about a book she had just finished reading: The Five Love Languages by Dr. Gary Chapman. I found her perspectives on the subject matter interesting and picked up the book for myself. When I was done reading it, I thought about how these five “love languages” apply not only to individuals in a partnership, but also to colleagues in a professional relationship. Some thoughts below:

1. Words of Affirmation—consider how many people you interact with on a daily basis while on the job. There are the people you work next to everyday, your clients, potential clients, vendors, and more. How often do you offer a kind word? Positive feedback on a project or their performance? A simple “I really appreciate the quality of work you produce” does wonders for a co-worker’s morale, thus inspiring them to be the best they can be for your organization. And don’t forget clients–letting them know that you appreciate and value their business goes a long way. If you haven’t done so lately, reach out to those around you and offer up a deserved kind word or two. You never know what kind of impact those simple words will have on those around you—or your business.

2. Quality Time—We all want to feel important and valuable…and part of that equation is spending time with clients or colleagues that is not agenda driven. Take a co-worker to lunch to ask about her child’s birthday party. Bring coffee by a client’s office to show that you’re thinking of them. These small gestures promote internal and external goodwill and contribute to a positive work life balance for all involved.

3. Receiving Gifts—Buy a co-worker’s lunch. Bring bagels to the next client meeting. Small gestures won’t break your bank and demonstrate thoughtfulness. Another way to “give a gift” is to publicly acknowledge a job well-done. Give credit to the persons or teams responsible for company successes—both within the company and in front of vendors and clients.

4. Acts of Service—Do you have a co-worker who is backed against the wall trying to meet a deadline? Alleviate the pressure by offering to help. Replace toner in the copier. Pick up someone’s documents off the printer and deliver them to their office. Going above and beyond the call of duty can strengthen co-worker and client relationships.

5. ‘Physical’ Touch— Simmer down, HR. I’m talking handshakes and cultural customs here. If you don’t consider someone else’s views on physical interactions, you just may offend them.

We all judge organizations differently. However, figuring out which “love language” your prospects and clients use can be a competitive advantage. Plus, it’s just nice to do something—by word or action—for someone else once in a while, right? Whether your efforts result in new business or not, your professional relationship will undoubtedly be strengthened.