Effective Communication Tips for Entrepreneurs: Say More with Less

Clear communication is vital for entrepreneurs seeking advice or connections. This blog explores how to craft concise messages that capture attention and build strong relationships.

Effective communication is crucial for entrepreneurs. How do you capture attention quickly? How can you ask for advice without wasting time? In this blog, we’ll cover key strategies for crafting concise messages, approaching investors, and building strong connections. Let’s explore how to make every word count.

When you ask a seasoned entrepreneur a vague and passive question like "Where should I start?", you're unlikely to get a meaningful answer. Instead, try framing your question more specifically: "I've already started and encountered a problem at this point. What should I do?" This approach shows that you are already on your path and putting in effort, prompting them to share their knowledge more openly.

For instance, starting a message with "Hello, how are you?" can waste time for both parties. While it's true that brevity is key, writing lengthy essays can be just as exhausting. On the other hand, merely asking "How are you?" without getting to the point can be a significant time waster. That's why, in today's fast-paced world, it's crucial to state your purpose immediately after a brief greeting. This approach saves both time and energy.

If you have a startup and want to reach out to an investor, the most important thing is to start with a compelling sentence. This concept aligns with the idea of an "elevator pitch." Whether you're addressing an investor or a standard business person, no one has time to spare these days. People are trying to spend whatever free time they have with their families. So, your introduction and project description should be concise and impactful enough that the recipient feels it's a well-crafted message deserving of a response. Whether you have met the person before or are reaching out for the first time, your message should vary accordingly.

What About Phone Calls?

Everyone has different opinions on this, but personally, I dislike when my number is obtained from others, and strangers call me out of the blue. While this might seem like a different topic, it's a fundamental rule: if someone asks you for another person's phone number, don't share it without that person's permission. It's an unwritten rule of etiquette. On the other hand, if you're calling someone for the first time, it's best to send a message first, considering that the person might be busy. If they don't have your number saved, a sudden call could put them in an awkward situation during an important task. Of course, if you're already acquainted and they have your number, you might call to establish contact. Phones exist for this purpose. But if it's your first time reaching out, send a message first.

Crafting the Perfect Message

As mentioned earlier, your message should be short, clear, and compelling enough that the recipient feels the need to respond. It's important to acknowledge that sometimes the topic is lengthy, and the email ends up being long. But before you hit send, ask yourself, "If I received this email, would I read it?" Try to empathize with the recipient.

Time is precious—not just for business professionals, but for you as well. That's why it's essential to respect both your and others' time by sticking to scheduled meeting times and being mindful not to monopolize the other person's time when communicating.

In today's interconnected world, reaching out to anyone—be it a potential investor, a mentor, or a key business partner—is easier than ever. The digital age has broken down barriers, making it possible to connect with influential people across the globe. However, getting a response or engaging in a meaningful conversation isn't just about access; it's about how you communicate. A poorly crafted message can be easily ignored, while a well-thought-out, concise introduction can open doors to opportunities.

The key to standing out in a crowded inbox or social media feed is mastering the art of concise and targeted communication. When reaching out to someone new, especially someone who is busy, it's important to be clear about your intentions from the very start. Avoid vague language or long-winded explanations. Instead, get straight to the point with a compelling reason for why you're reaching out and how they could benefit from engaging with you. Remember, the way you communicate can make all the difference in building valuable relationships and advancing your goals.

In summary, communicate in a short and concise yet informative manner. For example, today I saw a post by a director of an investment firm on LinkedIn. He said, "We can meet for coffee, but please explain why we should meet in two sentences—no more than three." What does this mean? Time is limited, but provide a quick, well-structured reason. It's a great tactic.

Whether you're an entrepreneur, a business person, or an investor reading this blog, remember that your time is valuable.

See you in my next blog post. Take care!