"Se puede cerrar más negocios con una palabra amable y una sonrisa que con un discurso contundente."

The essence of the quote is that warmth and friendliness can often be more effective in closing deals than aggressive sales tactics. It’s like saying honey attracts more flies than vinegar. People tend to respond better to positive interactions—things like a kind word or a genuine smile—than to forceful or overly assertive approaches.

Think about the last time you were at a store and the salesperson greeted you with a big smile, maybe even cracked a joke. Chances are, you felt more at ease and were more open to what they had to offer. This idea isn't new; in fact, it’s been around for a long time. Dale Carnegie, the author of “How to Win Friends and Influence People,” preached similar principles in the 1930s. His main point was that making people feel appreciated and understood was the key to successful relationships—both personal and professional.

Let’s take a real-world example. Imagine you’re shopping for a new car. You visit two dealerships. The first salesperson you meet is all about business. They bombard you with stats, prices, and try to push you into making a decision on the spot. It feels like you’re in a high-pressure environment, and it’s exhausting.

Now, picture the second dealership. The salesperson here starts by asking you about your day, what you’re looking for in a car, and maybe even shares a funny story about their own car-buying experience. They’re genuinely interested in helping you find what suits your needs. They smile, they listen, and they make you feel valued. Which experience do you think is going to leave a better impression? Chances are, you’re going to want to buy from the friendly, relatable salesperson rather than the pushy one.

So, how can you use this wisdom in your own life? Start by paying attention to your interactions. If you’re in sales, focus on building a connection first. Ask questions, listen to the answers, and show that you care about the person you’re talking to. It’s not just about making the sale; it’s about creating a positive experience. Remember, people buy from people they like and trust.

Picture this scenario: You’re at a networking event, and you want to make a good impression. Instead of diving straight into what you do and handing out business cards like they’re confetti, take a different approach. Smile, ask people about themselves, and actually listen to what they have to say. Share a bit about yourself, but don’t dominate the conversation. People will remember how you made them feel—appreciated, understood, and at ease.

In summary, whether you’re trying to close a business deal, make a new friend, or just have a pleasant interaction, leading with kindness and a smile can work wonders. It’s simple advice, but incredibly powerful. So next time you’re in a situation where you want to make a positive impression, remember this: a kind word and a smile can go a long way.