Every entrepreneur knows there is more to success than bringing a product to market. They must understand the industry and how their product or service will benefit their target audience. They must learn and follow governmental regulations and how operations affect tax liability. Most importantly, every entrepreneur must focus on mastering soft skills for their business to thrive. These are the top seven skills every business owner should master within their first year of operation.
Decisiveness
As an entrepreneur, you must make several decisions every day. Evaluating the benefits and costs of each option day after day can be exhausting. Successful entrepreneurs avoid getting caught up in the decision-making process. They know that not making a decision is often more costly than making the wrong decision. For example, a jewelry repair professional may have several options for jewelry repair software. However, they focus on applications that support their priorities – job order templates, integrated image support, and text message communication options.
Self-Discipline
Dynamic business owners lead their organizations through challenges, large and small. They focus on all aspects of a successful business and look for ways to anticipate and overcome trials. Don’t avoid taking action because it does not interest you. This self-discipline keeps you engaged in the business model, and employees follow your lead. Take the time to recognize what tasks you enjoy and those you do not. Be sure that you are spending the time to work on those unstimulating responsibilities.
Communication
As a business owner, you have a variety of people you come in contact with daily. From employees to customers and vendors to the media, you must be able to communicate with each person to share your message. Great communicators are made, and you should always look for ways to improve your communication skills. Take the time to focus on how you use verbal, written, and non-verbal strategies. Make sure you actively listen to your audience. Look for a variety of ways to engage them and communicate your message.
Public Speaking
At some point in your business, you will need to speak in front of an audience. You do not need to be the best orator, but strong public speaking skills help you effectively deliver your message. Practice makes public speaking easier. Before you hire a voice coach, consider doing these things to improve your presentation skills:
- Record and review your speeches
- Pay attention to body positioning and non-verbal gestures
- Research your audience
- Be culturally sensitive
Time Management
You are bombarded with multiple decisions, challenges, and tasks that must be completed daily. Strong time management skills boost your productivity. There are many time management theories, and it is easy to get overwhelmed trying to decide which works best for you. Write down how you currently schedule your day. Then consider the tools that help you be successful. Identify what works best and what doesn’t work well for you. This information aids you in laying out a system that supports your needs.
Flexibility
Flexibility is the not-so-gentle art of changing direction with little notice while focusing on the company’s goals. Successful entrepreneurs monitor internal and external forces to help keep their company stays on track to meet their objectives. You may need to put your responsibilities on hold to cover for a sick employee. On the other hand, it can be as complex as rescheduling public announcements out of respect for local or national tragedies. This flexibility also communicates to your team that you are committed to them and the company.
Emotional Well-Being
Maintaining your mental health helps you be a better business owner. Identify strategies that reduce stress and maintain a positive work-life balance. Monitoring your anxiety level reduces your risk of burnout or developing chronic health conditions. If you aren’t already having annual physical and wellness exams, make an appointment to get those done. Look into positive stress management techniques. If you feel yourself losing interest in your business or isolating yourself, you may be at risk of burnout. Speak with a licensed therapist or counselor to help you manage your stress.
To be a successful entrepreneur, you must know more than your target market, advertising strategy, or financial organization. You must have a firm foundation of these soft skills to support your organizational mission.
