I woke up this morning with the Mike Okri’s song ‘Time na Money’ reverberating through the air with a classic ambience. ‘…Money no dey fall from heaven use your time well money go come…na true word I dey tell you so oo…’.This is one song that easily comes in handy for everyone. ‘Remember that time is money’, is a very famous quote credited to Benjamin Franklin. There is no gain-saying the fact that time is precious. But then I thought to myself, I can re-mix the above song to further drive home the essence of business and so I added my line thus; ‘…Words na Money…Money no dey come from heaven use your words well money go come…’. I mean it when I say that the power of the spoken word and your ability to use convincing words, go a long way in sealing the deal.
When you think of starting and running a business of your own, you will realize that it is not for the faint-hearted. It is stressful, scary but can equally be rewarding and fulfilling. It demands your complete attention, affection, time, money, but most of all your words. Your word is your bond. Many successful entrepreneurs and professionals use their words as a veritable tool for earning very substantial incomes.
It is a known fact that the business climate is too competitive. Advertisement placements are expensive and corporate budgets soar higher everyday, such that you cannot compete in any way. The only option is for you to learn to speak more powerfully!
Speaking for your business is mostly a public affair. But each time some people hear the two words; ‘Public speaking’, their adrenaline shoot up.
The irony is that we all enjoy and love good public speakers. We admire inspirational, motivational, dynamic and thought-provoking speakers.
On the contrary, we do not resonate with dry and flat speakers who waste our time.
Nonetheless, it is easier to criticize but how many people have ever mustered enough courage to be on the podium? What is holding you back?
Here are some reasons why you must utilize spoken words to grow your business.
THE STAGE IS A GOLDMINE. It provides you with an opportunity to showcase your expertise.
Workshops and seminars are good ways to impart knowledge based on your field. It creates room for you to make an irresistible offer to the participants.
Your ability to turn your audience into paying clients is highly recommended.
BLOW YOUR TRUMPET. You do not want your business to be buried in the cacophony of the strong 24/7 brands and their powerful messages. In our highly competitive environment, your small business is highly pressed to grow. The only comparative advantage you have in order to rise above the noise is your ability to ‘speakmarket’.
SPEAKMARKETING fosters a level playing field. It is all about your ability to establish your expertise, create trust ad increase your brand visibility. It is cost effective. It is a direct, up front and personal contact with your potential customers. ‘Speakmarketing’ is not commercials. ‘Speakmarketing’ must add value to your busy and distracted audience. What you need most is to package your brand very well, present yourself with poise, deliver your message effectively and raise the bar.
TITLES SELL. When you are cooking up your speech, ensure to use attractive words that can trigger huge interest.
People are drawn to clever write-ups. Your title really needs to resonate with your audience. They expect new and practical tips to help them in their daily living. Make judicious use of the law of attraction. Craft your words very well. Let your call for action be a free offer, that will encourage people to approach you.
FOLLOW UP. When you work hard to attract potential clients, please work harder to follow up on them within 24-48 hours of your presentation. There are lots of competing messages from competing brands bombarding your audience everyday. Therefore, they need to hear you loudest, clearest and most often.When you become a master of words and imbibe the things that make speeches and speakers more effective, your business will surely experience a paradigm shift.
Your word is your bond. Each word you say puts your honour on the line. You can establish trust and integrity. You can build relationships and maintain your reputation. Your word is as good as your money. Let your word be the currency that marries efficiency and proficiency,
Your word is your wand, use it wisely.
CHIAMAKA BOBBY-UMEANO
