Communication Skills

Skills All Entrepreneurs Need Writing Speaking Listening Math (Basic)  Addition and Subtraction  Multiplication  Averages  Sales Transactions  Percentages Problem Solving

Effective Business Letters Why do you write letters? Writing

Effective Business Letter Rules 1. Key all formal correspondence. 2. Be sure to spell all names correctly and have the correct address. 3. Always date your business correspondence. 4. Use names and titles appropriately. 5. Be direct and positive. 6. Be persuasive and specific. 7. Avoid using fancy language. 8. Be polite. 9. Use an appropriate closing. Writing

Effective Business Memos Memorandum: short written form of business communication that has a set format. Interoffice Memo: memo from one person in a company to another Should be clear, concise, persuasive, and positive Used for communicating company policies and procedures, assigning tasks, or motivating staff Writing

Telephone Conversations Why would you need good telephone skills? Speaking

Telephone Tips Speak clearly, and talk directly into the receiver. Be cheerful. Always speak politely. Think about what you are going to say before you make a call. Take notes. Speaking

Face to Face Tips Shake hands and make eye contact with the person you are meeting. Show and interest in what the other person is saying. Speak clearly. Do not appear rushed or anxious to be somewhere else. Thank the person at the end of the meeting. Speaking

Listening Skills Listening is the cause of most business problems How can you improve your listening skills?  Focus your attention on the person who is speaking  Think about and try to understand what the other person is saying  Ask questions to make sure you understand what the person is saying.  Take notes to confirm what you are hearing. Listening

Listening Skills Why is it important for entrepreneurs to listen carefully?