Language, Please

Growing up in the Farquharson household, there was a clear line drawn between acceptable and unacceptable language. Mom and (especially) Dad came down on us like hammers when “pissah” (Boston-area slang for “awesome”) or “sucks” crossed our lips.

Today, network TV is allowing a LOT worse than that, as standards for what is acceptable are loosened. No one says, “Pardon my French” or hesitates to swear in front of a woman.

It’s the Wild Friggin’ West, I guess.

What I notice these days isn’t who’s using foul language, but rather who isn’t. It’s a differentiator. Whereas an f-bomb would once cause your head to snap around towards its source, now a well-phrased replacement gets noticed (although, what would My Cousin Vinny, The Bear, or Roy Kent be if they spoke like Mary Poppins?).

The same can be said for asking politely, showing appreciation, and saying “Thank you.” These once-common habits now stand out. They demonstrate strength, discipline, and self-respect ... all desirable traits people look for in a good sales rep.

Eliminating swearing has about as much chance of happening as returning to the Blue Law days when businesses were closed on Sundays. Just be aware that what you say says a lot about you as a person and as a salesperson.

So does what you don’t say.

And say, if you are looking for sales growth, The Sales Vault is wicked pissah. You can check it out at SalesVault.pro or by calling Bill Farquharson at 781-934-7036.