The Sales Vault

The Sales Challenge Blog

Language, Please

Picture of Bill Farquharson

Bill Farquharson

Bad language has a place in today's world. Joe Pesci isn't Joe Pesci without the use of, um, colorful language. But in business, where is the line? That's the question Bill Farquharson explores carefully in this week's blog.

Growing up in the Farquharson household, there was a clear line drawn between acceptable and unacceptable language. Mom and (especially) Dadcame 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.

Upcoming Workshops

Why the most successful sales reps love the Sales Vault

Trusted by thousands of companies

Scroll to Top

Get Bill's Tip delivered to your inbox...

Sales tips are released every Monday morning.  As always get Bill’s Free Weekly Sales Tip at SalesVault.pro. Bookmark the page: This Week’s Tip

Looking for a notification by email? Connect with Bill Farquharson on LinkedIn and Subscribe to his Weekly Newsletter.

Get notified via LinkedIn

Please note, you will need to join LinkedIn to connect with Bill and subscribe.