Communications skills Small business

Good listening skills are essential in business communications.

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No matter the size of your business or the scope of products and services it offers, proficiency in oral and written communications is essential in promoting and maintaining a positive profile. Not only must you stay well informed about the needs of your target demographic but committed to delivering sufficient instructions and constructive feedback so that your work force understands your vision and performance expectations.

Clarity

The best product in the world won't sell if you can't clearly and concisely explain what it is, how it works and why consumers need to have it, according to the Harvard Business School authors of "Business Communication." Clarity in your oral presentations, sales pitches, marketing materials and written correspondence is paramount in running a successful business. Keep your messaging simple, straightforward and focused.

Empathy

Persuading others to patronize your business requires sensitivity on your part to research, understand and address what is most important to them, writes Norbert Aubuchon, author of "The Anatomy of Persuasion: How to Persuade Others To Act on Your Ideas, Accept Your Proposals, Buy Your Products or Services, Hire You, Promote You, and More." An effective communicator not only relates on an interpersonal level but uses language, graphics and concepts that specifically resonate with the age, gender, education, ethnicity, occupation and financial status of her target audience.

Related Reading: Communication Skills for Business

Enthusiasm

If you don't believe in your own product, service or entrepreneurial talent, you can't expect anyone else to, either. A positive, engaged and upbeat attitude is a communications mindset you can't afford to ignore. Whether you're meeting new clients, making a speech, doing a product demonstration, answering the phone or writing a letter, your target audience can tell if you love what you're doing. Smile, nod, make eye contact, invite interaction and maintain a friendly tone.