Communication is key when you’re an entrepreneur! When you’re starting your own business or even maintaining one, you must be able to effectively communicate with newcomers who are interested in what you have to say. Could you use a few tips on beefing up your communication skills? We’re here to help:
Be Precise
When you’re communicating (especially via email) with potential customers or business partners, make sure you’re being very clear and getting to the point without wasting a lot of words. Be precise, and always offer the opportunity for elaboration, should they have more questions.
Listen Up
When communicating, we often think about what we say but not about how we listen. Listening is an important part of communication that we often forget. Listen to others and take note of their specific interest and needs. It will help you down the line as you continue building relationships with individuals.
Common Courtesy
Make sure that you’re paying attention to common courtesy when you’re communicating with others. An email on holidays, a phone call on a birthday, pleases and thank yous will go a long way in earning the trust and respect of others.
Be Transparent
Take this tip with a grain of salt. When you’re communicating effectively, you’re open and honest about yourself, your goals, and (in the entrepreneurial setting) your business. You don’t have to reveal everything about your personal life, but find ways to be relatable to others by sharing your own stories.
Follow Through
Keep in mind that communication rarely ends after one conversation! Make sure that you’re following through and providing others with answers to questions and keeping in touch. Don’t create missed opportunities by chatting with someone at an event and then not contacting them later.
What has helped you to become an effective communicator? Tell us in the comments section below!