Author & Persuasion Consultant Addresses NI Firms

A delegation of business representatives from Lisburn and Castlereagh have attended a network event to hear motivational speaker and bestselling author Philip Hesketh discuss the psychology of persuasion and influence.

Held in the picturesque grounds of Hillsborough Castle, Mr Hesketh covered the five keys to persuasion, the three parts to every conversation and the psychological drivers that influence customers with the 100 delegates.

As a world-renowned speaker, he has delivered over 1,000 talks in over 20 countries to a wide variety of disciplines including finances, sales, health, manufacturing, education and legal services. Providing real-life examples from these industries, Mr Hesketh passionately presented on how businesses can engage with customers through developing a meaningful relationship and influencing their life with a number of key psychological drivers.

Speaking to local business men and women, Mr Hesketh said: "Businesses must consider their customer's feelings throughout the sales process and establish what's really important to them. The psychology of buying is important to help us deliver excellent customer service and encourage repeat purchasing. Customers will buy from businesses they see as authorative in the sector, if offered a special deal or feel obligated to them. To enhance your relationship with customers, you must be honest, exceed their expectations and follow through on what you agreed to do. These simple steps will help you to foster loyal working relationships which will ultimately benefit your bottom line."

The session concluded with Philip advising local businesses that the purpose of life is: "to develop loving relationships and make a meaningful positive contribution".

Alderman Allan Ewart MBE, Chairman of the council's Development Committee opened the business event and said: "We are delighted to welcome Philip here this evening to conclude the council's Entrepreneurs Network 2018/2019. As a highly successful entrepreneur in his own right, growing his business from a standing start to employing over 150 people, Philip is more than qualified to offer practical advice to help our local business community thrive. I would like to thank companies in the Lisburn Castlereagh area for your continued support at networking events throughout the year, and I hope to see you all again in September when we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the council's Entrepreneurs schedule."