The 5 Social Skills That Increase Entrepreneurial Success...

The 5 factors that underlie social competence in entrepreneurship

1. Social perception

Is the ability to accurately perceive others (their traits, intentions and motives). Social perception assists the entrepreneur in:

• Determining whether others are being truthful in negotiations
• Choosing the best job applicants
• Determining the cause of a substandard performance
• Correctly gauging current moods and emotions of others

2. Impression management

Involves techniques for inducing positive reactions in others. Entrepreneurs with good impression management skills:

• Use flattery to their advantage
• Appear to like someone even when they don’t
• Agree with others when it’s appropriate
• Enhance their appearance and image

3. Persuasiveness

Involves the ability to change others’ views or behavior in desired directions.Persuasiveness is important when obtaining financing, recruiting key employees, interacting with customers and conducting negotiations.

4. Social adaptability

Is the ability to adapt and feel comfortable in a wide range of situations. Entrepreneurs with good social adaptability can.

• Easily adjust to any social situation
• Be comfortable talking with many types of people

5. Social expressiveness

The ability to express one’s emotions and feelings clearly in order to generate enthusiasm in others. Social expressiveness is related to success for entrepreneurs in the high-tech industry.

All five of the factors that underlie social competence are essential for entrepreneurial success.

They each contribute to an entrepreneur’s ability to connect with employees, customers, prospects and venture capitalists. Social competence is the key to selling a vision, inspiring greatness and leading a team to success.