As an entrepreneur in Nigeria or anywhere else in the world, one of the most important things you need is the ability to communicate well. Whether you’re trying to explain your business idea, talk to customers, lead a team, or negotiate with suppliers, your words matter. This is why developing effective communication skills is key to your success.
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You don’t need to be the loudest person in the room. You just need to be clear, confident, and honest. Let’s walk through how you can grow your communication skills as an entrepreneur — in a simple, real, and practical way.
1. Know What You’re Saying and Why
Before you speak, ask yourself: What do I want to say? And why am I saying it?
As an entrepreneur, you’ll talk to different people — customers, investors, staff, vendors, and more. You must know your message and who you’re speaking to.
If you’re selling a product, don’t just talk about features. Talk about how it helps the person you’re selling to. If you’re managing a team, don’t just give orders. Help them understand the goal and why it matters.
Clarity starts in your mind before it reaches your mouth.
2. Listen More Than You Speak
Many people think communication is all about talking. But great entrepreneurs know that listening is just as important — even more.
When you listen:
- You understand your customers’ real needs.
- You get better feedback from your team.
- You avoid misunderstandings.
Don’t listen just to reply. Listen to understand. Nod. Ask questions. Repeat what the other person said to confirm. It shows respect and builds trust.
3. Practice Everyday Communication
You don’t have to wait for a big speech or pitch before you practice your effective communication skills. Use every opportunity — talking to a friend, chatting with a customer, or sending a WhatsApp message.
Here’s a simple trick: Before sending a message, read it out loud. If it sounds too complicated or cold, rewrite it. Let your message sound like you. Let it feel human.
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4. Be Simple and Clear
Big grammar doesn’t build big businesses. If you want people to understand you, speak simply.
Instead of saying: “We utilise cutting-edge solutions to optimise your workflow…”
Say: “We use smart tools to make your work faster and easier.”
People will connect with you faster when you speak their language. Don’t try to sound smart — try to be understood.
5. Watch Your Body Language
Your body also speaks. Even when you’re not saying anything, your posture, eye contact, and gestures are saying a lot.
Here’s how to improve:
- Make eye contact during conversations (but don’t stare!).
- Smile when it’s appropriate.
- Avoid folding your arms — it can look defensive.
- Nod to show you’re paying attention.
When your words and body match, people are more likely to believe and trust you.
6. Learn to Speak with Confidence
Maybe you’re shy or feel nervous speaking in public. That’s okay. You’re not alone. Many successful entrepreneurs started just like you.
But confidence is a skill you can build. Try these:
- Practice speaking in front of a mirror.
- Join local business groups or Toastmasters clubs.
- Volunteer to speak at small events or community meetups.
The more you speak, the easier it becomes.
7. Use Stories to Explain
People forget facts, but they remember stories. When you’re talking about your business, don’t just throw numbers. Share a short story.
For example:
- A time you struggled and how your product helped.
- A happy customer’s experience.
- A lesson you learned from a failure.
Stories make your message real, personal, and relatable.
8. Improve Your Writing Too
Communication isn’t only about speaking. You’ll need to write emails, proposals, captions, and messages.
Keep your writing:
- Short and straight to the point
- Warm and respectful
- Free from unnecessary jargon
Tools like Grammarly or Hemingway Editor can help you check grammar and clarity. But most importantly, always ask yourself: “If I received this message, would I understand it?”
9. Learn From Others
Look around you. Who are the businesspeople you admire? Pay attention to how they speak or write. Watch TED Talks, listen to interviews, or read their posts.
Pick up habits, phrases, or styles that feel right for you. But don’t copy blindly — let it still sound like you.
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Final Thoughts
As an entrepreneur, developing effective communication skills is not optional. It’s part of your business toolkit. With clear and kind communication, you can lead better, sell more, connect deeply, and grow faster.
You don’t need to have perfect English or a polished accent. What you need is a desire to grow and the courage to speak from the heart.
Start small. Be patient with yourself. Speak more. Listen better. Write clearly. And always keep learning. Communication is how your ideas travel. So polish your voice — the world is waiting to hear you.
Featured Image Source: Jobcase
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