Paul The Programmer

Don't you prefer working with clients who like to work with you?

If you're carrying out work at a client site, maybe amongst a group of employees, here are some tips that will move you ahead of the pack and get you seen as a valued member or the team, rather than an unwanted intruder into the employees' inner sanctum.

1. Make them a coffee. Nothing says "I'm on your level" more than offering to make/buy someone a coffee. Try it, you'll see. It's like saying that you have no problem getting your proverbial hands dirty; a little humility is a good thing.

2. Offering help. If someone is struggling, and you know the solution, offer to help. Don't be frightened to lend a hand. Most likely the person will thank you for it. You've also proven that you don't mind sharing your knowledge.

3. Suggesting improvements. If you see something that could be improved, take a note of it and at an opportune moment, bring it up and explain how your solution might bring some extra value for the team and the benefit to the client. Being a team player bills you as a values resource.

4. Build relationships. Always say hello to the receptionist, and mean it. Smile, and mean it. Ask them some questions, and mean it. Really listen to their answers. Ask them to introduce you to people in the company you don't already know and do the same pattern. You'll learn a lot about the business, and build a strong foundation with the organisation. Be sincere, your wallet will value you forever.

5. Be outstanding. Research, and show statistics that support your work, this gives you and the people around you confidence. Follow this up by developing powerful presentations using imagery, rather than boring, verbose PowerPoint slides. Give your clients all the whistles they expect and deliver the flutes they didn't. Don't be afraid to show how exceptional you are.

After all, it's the exceptional that's memorable.