As a business owner, you are busy, busy, busy! You are running the business, keeping the books, perhaps managing some downline personnel, and dealing with customers and prospects. You probably talk and write for hours each day. You know it’s important to spell words correctly and use the right grammar when writing emails and letters; but did you know that it’s equally important to have good speaking skills? 

Communication Is a Basic Human Skill. 

Communication in all forms is critical for entrepreneurs. It is arguably the most essential skill you need to grow your business and market your product in your community and online. What if you aren’t a great “people person”? Luckily for you, it’s possible to develop your communication skills! Below are some helpful tips to aid you in growing your abilities and your confidence as you connect with others. 

Before you talk, listen. People want to be heard. When your downline comes to you with a problem, listen to them. When your prospect tells you their struggle, pay attention. Listen with the intention of learning more about each person – not just to find out what you should say next. Listening to the people who speak to you helps them trust you and helps you learn what they need and want in life. Then you can address their needs more accurately. 

Take notes. This is another key ingredient of active listening during conversation. Keep a little notepad and pen handy, or use a note-taking app on your phone. If you are in a meeting, write down the important topics. Even a one-on-one at your local coffee shop is a great place to take notes. Besides letting people know that you care about what they say, this also helps you later recall what was discussed. You can even send your notes to the other people afterward to share what you learned. (Just remember: If you are using your phone, let the other people know that you are taking notes instead of scrolling social media and ignoring them.) 

Stick to what you know. People expect you to share your expertise. If someone asks you a question that you can’t answer, be honest. It is better to express yourself humbly and honestly, instead of rambling on about a topic you know nothing about. The latter could easily count as lying, which certainly won’t make people view you in a positive light! Instead of making up information, just say, “That’s a great question. Let me do some research and get back with you.” This fosters the relationship with the other person and lets you both learn something new! 

Watch what your body is saying. Body language is a big factor in communication. Whether consciously or unconsciously, people use your posture and positioning to interpret how you feel about their conversation with you. If you are slumping in your chair, fidgeting with your coffee cup, and turning your head to watch everyone who enters the shop, your friend will think you don’t care about what they have to say. Keep an open, upright body position when facing the people you speak with. Avoid crossing your arms, as this sends signals that you are closed off. Maintain good eye contact and let them know you are engaged in this conversation. 

Be respectful. This seems basic, but it is the most important aspect of communication. If you are in a group, treat every person with the same level of kindness and authenticity. Don’t talk over the other speakers or constantly correct them. Approach the conversation with an open mind. Know that every person has different knowledge than you and that, together, you can create new ideas and inspire each other. 

Take a Deep Breath, Relax, and Connect with Your Inner Communicator. 

It can be intimidating to speak with new people. Amid the busy days of running a business, many entrepreneurs set aside critical communication skills and hope their emails and text messages will pay off. While written communication is helpful, nothing beats a good old-fashioned meetup! Connect face-to-face with your downlines and prospects as you get to know them. Approach business as an opportunity to learn, to grow yourself, and to help the people you meet. Keep these tips in mind as you head to your next hang-out session. You’ll soon find yourself forming new connections with confidence!