Fresh business school graduates who want to start a business are eager to become noticeable; they want to connect with as many people as possible and make their brand known. Granted, although this is a valid initiative, it will take time for your start-up to grow and become noticeable.
While innovative tools like AI can maximize efficiency, as a business leader, you also need the human touch to innovate. After all, bigger teams need managers with soft skills to lead their start-ups in the right direction, raise money, and force their way through an ever-growing market. To that end, entrepreneurs will need to employ subtle human skills to connect with others and communicate effectively.
You will find that these soft people skills go a long way, making you stand out from other start-ups who follow textbook rules to grow and start a business. Here are nine skills that could lead to long-term success.
Genuine Curiosity
We often hear the expression, “Curiosity killed the cat,” but this isn’t always true. Contrary to what most people think, curiosity is usually an underrated trait of successful founders. If you truly want to grow your start-up, you need to examine what others are doing. Brian Chesky, CEO and founder of Airbnb, often stays in many Airbnb homes himself to better understand the experience of hosts and guests.
Pay Attention to Details
Creating partnerships entails building connections and bridges. The key to growing and starting a business is to connect with others. Often, little things go a long way. For example, you can take note of a client’s hobby, clothing, or accomplishments, and commend them for them. Many companies send birthday messages to their clients to build a repertoire with them.
Be Open about Failure
In order for your startup to grow, you will need to acknowledge your failures. Granted, that might not always be easy. Entrepreneurs who are open about their weaknesses usually develop stronger connections with their team and clients; it also makes them honest and relatable.
Connect with Others without Expectation
Entrepreneurs who connect with others build communities. Even without expecting something in return, connecting or networking with others builds credibility and fosters collaboration, all of which are essential to the success of any business.
Don’t treat relationships as transactions
When you are genuine, people will feel it. That’s why it is imperative for entrepreneurs not to treat every interaction as a transaction. Sometimes, being authentic goes a long way. For example, when you are having a casual conversation, you do not necessarily need to pitch yourself first. Take time to speak casually. Entrepreneurs who follow this approach are usually more successful in building and establishing a lasting connection.
Be Motivated
In many situations, entrepreneurs say they are passionate about their work. That in itself isn’t wrong; nevertheless, as an entrepreneur, you must have something that compels you to do what you do. If your primary goal is to be a writer or to start a networking business, you must show evidence of your work and why you do what you do so well. When your motivations are unique, that sets you apart from your competitors and allows you to build trust effortlessly.
Be Memorable
If you want your pitch to stand out from others, you must make people remember you. Although that might be easier said than done, don’t give up on the various methods and techniques you could use. Remember to be authentic. Sometimes, you might stand out for doing or saying something wrong, which people might remember you for. Although you don’t want that to happen, always be authentic and genuine through your dress, conversations, and mannerisms.
Show Understanding
Forget the jargon and buzzwords business leaders use to sound smart. Being clear and concise and expressing yourself in plain, understandable language resonates with others. Entrepreneurs who communicate clearly establish credibility and stronger ties with others.
Communicate Effectively
Smart entrepreneurs read between the lines. They can sense what causes other people discomfort and easily manage such situations proactively. For example, if a client isn’t comfortable discussing a topic, you can tactfully change the subject. Identifying discomfort improves your negotiation and decision-making skills.
By tactfully using the soft skills above, you can stand out in a competitive job market, grow your startup, and establish lasting connections with others!
David Messiha | Staff Writer
