I was 8 when I spoke my first full sentence in english. It was another seven years before I started learning it when it was introduced as a second language in Polish schools. Until that point, all I could say was “I go to school” and mispronounce some of my favorite bands names.
Today I live in an english speaking country, run a business, write books and I am just about to launch my new online sales course. All as a non native speaker.
Am I afraid if my level of english is sufficient enough? Of course.
Do I find that I am limited by my knowledge of the language? Yes, quite often actually.
Being a non-native speaker is a major constraint. It takes more effort to do many things well.
But, it’s also something that works as a benefit and helps me make more sales.
How?
Well, for one, I use a simple language and can communicate my ideas more clearly without hiding them behind fancy words (because I don’t know that many!). As a result, I am less likely to confuse my prospects. My personality shows clearly through my words too, I simply can’t hide behind the language and pretend I am someone else.
Not being a native speaker also gives me a story. It’s impossible not to know that I am not Irish when you talk to me. Hell, it’s probably clear from my writing too (not to mention my name, doesn’t sound very Irish either).
Sure, my story is not heartwarming like Jon Morrow’s (my favorite copywriter by the way) but it’s mine. It shows who I am. That’s enough.
Why do I write all this?
Because quite often we don’t realize that what we think we can’t do well is in fact our greatest asset.
Our imperfections make us human. And, people buy from people, not robots.
It’s that simple.
You can do your best to be perfect and flawless. You can pretend you are the best in the world but it won’t help you make sales.
On the other hand, show your prospect your human side and suddenly your business relationship goes to the next level.
It’s easier to build rapport
trust
understanding
and a solid business relationship.
Of course, not everyone will like the real you. I can imagine that some people might be irritated by my accent (it’s not that bad though) or the level of language I use but I don’t care. I can’t change who I am but I can be myself.
And, make sales.
So, what’s that something you think you can’t do well? Can you use it to your advantage?
Image credit: Ramona.Forcella via Flickr Commercial License
About Pawel Grabowski
