Starting a Small Business - Communication Skills (In-Person)

Effective communication skills are vital for business owners to navigate daily interactions with employees, clients, and partners. These skills help foster a productive, respectful, and professional work environment. Here’s how you can develop communication skills that will serve you in both routine and challenging situations: 1. How to Listen Effectively: Active listening is crucial for understanding others' perspectives and building strong working relationships. By practicing active listening—focusing on the speaker, asking clarifying questions, and summarizing what you've heard—you show respect for your team and colleagues. This helps reduce misunderstandings and ensures you’re making informed decisions, which is essential for the success of your business. 2. How to Ask for Clarification: There will always be times when things aren’t clear, whether it’s an instruction from a supervisor or feedback from a client. It’s important to ask for clarification to avoid mistakes. By politely seeking more information and confirming your understanding, you demonstrate initiative and commitment to getting things right. This is particularly helpful when managing your team or communicating with clients to ensure expectations are aligned. 3. How to Express Oneself in Writing (Including Written Cyber Communication): In today’s digital age, much of business communication happens through email, text, and other online platforms. Knowing how to express yourself clearly and professionally in writing is essential for maintaining a positive image and avoiding misunderstandings. When crafting emails or messages, ensure your tone is professional, concise, and clear. Proper written communication helps you manage your business efficiently, from interacting with clients to providing instructions to your team. 4. Understanding the Impact of Non-Verbal/Para-Verbal Communication: Non-verbal cues, such as body language, facial expressions, and tone of voice, play a huge role in how we communicate. Being aware of how your body gestures and tone of voice might be interpreted helps you maintain positive relationships with your team and clients. Additionally, understanding the difference between street language and standard language is key in a professional setting. Adjusting your communication style based on the audience helps prevent miscommunication and ensures you’re sending the right message.

Speaker(s): Cathie Bray

Co-Sponsor(s): The Greater Mount Airy Chamber of Commerce, Yadkin County Chamber of Commerce, and Yadkin Valley Chamber of Commerce

Fee: No Cost