The Most Underrated Skill in Business

In the business world, we value the obvious skills, which is no surprise. A person who can communicate well, do a killer presentation, or exhibit the ability to collaborate effectively, is seen by many as being successful.

Don’t get me wrong: all those skills are really important. However, I think they are nowhere near as important as the one skill I mention here.

This skill needs no MBA, nor does it require 20+ years experience. Anyone can do it and become quite good at it.

It is perhaps the most simple skill to practice, in terms of preparation. Yet it is the most difficult skill to master, since it means truly putting others’ goals in ahead of yours.

What is the most underrated skill in business?

It’s being responsive.

When you are responsive, you go beyond just listening. You are taking the time to act upon a request and considering it before you make a decision.

By taking the time to consider the request and then communicating your decision back to the person who made the request, the responsive person acknowledges that this request is very important. It validates the request, which in turn, validates the person who made the request.

When I started in the business world 20 years ago, I learned rather quickly that being responsive directly leads to advancement and success. I always made it a point to respond to every request I received. Sure, it took a lot of work and time, and there were days when I didn’t want to connect with anyone, but in the end, it has really paid out.

So, when people ask me how can they be more responsive, this is what I tell them:

1. Treat everyone’s request with respect.
2. Seriously consider the request before making a decision.
3. Take the time to reply to each request you receive. Write a brief, personal reply via email.
4. DON’T ignore people’s request by not responding. If you don’t have time to respond, say it, and let the person know that you will get back to him or her when you have more time.

Ignoring a person’s request is not a wise business move. Even if you don’t agree with that the person is doing or selling, be kind and just say: “Thanks, but no thanks.” I know, there are a lot of people out there who inundate you with daily offers. Be responsive to those requests. Being responsive doesn’t mean saying yes all the time. It just means that you are respectful and professional. You will stay above the crowd and others will notice.

It’s all about your reputation, and I truly believe that if you are responsive all of the time, you will build better relationships and make solid connections. Remember, all you need is to respond to the one right request and it could change your life for the better.

Now don’t get me wrong, being responsive does not mean being auto-responsive. When you follow the auto-response route, you are communicating to people that you aren’t really taking the time to ponder a person’s request. Being auto-responsive is unprofessional in my opinion. Don’t make that mistake too many times. In the end, it won’t help your reputation.

Thanks for reading this.
Julio, CEO, v5, LLC

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