7 Business Skills
for Women!
One of the best feelings in the world
is to reach just a little bit further
than you ever thought you could.
When you think you’ve reached your maximum potential, take one more step and then keep going because you’ve just proven to yourself that there’s no limit to what you can achieve.
Despite decades of playing second-fiddle to the men when it comes to business, women are reaching new heights each and every day. Women have many traits that can help them succeed in business; it’s just a matter of understanding and unlocking them. So, here are seven essential business skills for women!
#1
Networking
It’s not impossible to succeed in business without a strong network, but It’s much harder and a lot less fun! Many women are naturally social butterflies, but even if you aren’t the most outgoing, just believe in yourself and make those connections. Some businesswomen see every other woman as a competitor to them, but that’s rare – a lot of women love to help each other out with networking and valuable introductions.
#2
Patience
Growing up with 3 brothers in the house, both older and younger, I’ve learned a thing or two about patience. Sometimes in business, the best thing to do is to just be patient. However, it’s important to know when to wait and when to take action because if you’re too patient you might miss some incredible opportunities.
#3
Confidence
Here’s another great article with seven tips to help you feel more bold and confident. Even if you’re doing something new and scary, you’ve got to believe in yourself. Look at everything you’ve accomplished in the past, and let that serve as proof and stepping stones to all the amazing things you’ve yet to accomplish.
#4
Giving
Did you know that most non-profits are run by women? Women are natural givers and caretakers. In a leadership role, women are very compassionate and understanding but we know when it’s time to get tough, too. Being generous with your time and kind to those you work with can build a lot of goodwill, and you never know when that will come in handy.
#5
Compassion
Some might say this is a trait or a skill that makes you weak in business, but on the contrary. It helps you see things from other people’s point of view. Compassion can be a very powerful tool in negotiations, which we’ll talk about more in a moment. When you can see things from someone else’s point of view, you can understand why they’re reacting and behaving how they are. This will help you to avoid misunderstandings and to ensure a mutually beneficial outcome for all parties.
#6
Negotiations
Being able to negotiate is a necessary when it comes to business. A business owner will find themselves having to negotiate on a daily basis, from little things like disputes with suppliers to larger things like contracts and salaries. A must have skill for all kinds of business agreements.
#7
Manipulation
Don’t take it the wrong way, this isn’t about going out and manipulating people. It’s about being able to look at a scenario through a sober lens, and to find out how to sway things in your favor. The word manipulate often has a negative connotation, when in reality it just means being able to control or influence a situation, or being able to handle a tool. In this case. That tool is the business skills that you have worked hard to develop.
There’s no clear-cut road to business success, but when you’re able to take your own personal strengths and skills and to honestly think about where you excel, you’ll be able to find a position that allows you to use your strengths to your advantage. You don’t need to master every single one of these skills, but the more tools you’ve got in your toolbox – the more prepared you’ll be for anything that comes your way!
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How about you?
If you are in business as a woman, in a job or as a entrepreneur,
what is the absolute #1 business skill you need to master according to you?
Simply post your comments and wisdom in the comment box below!
Thank you.
Mary Ann Keeling
A freelance writer and business consultant who loves sharing her insights on the latest business opportunities. I believe strongly that with just a little of the charm that every woman naturally possesses, and the right negotiation skills from scotwork.com.au, women can achieve all of the career goals they wish to. Follow me on Twitter and Google+.
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