4 Unexpected Ways To Develop Entrepreneurial Skills

You can read dozens of business blogs, taken a million courses and study all the great books out there (actually, this entrepreneur book kicks ass – no bias, mind you). 

And yes, you should be part of a mastermind group, and network, and study, and all that.  But there are other ways to grow your entrepreneurial muscle that you never considered.  Here are the top 5 unexpected ways to become a better entrepreneur

 Learn a Language

Business has gone global.  It is only a matter of time (if you haven't already) before you will be working with someone who has a different native language than yours. Even if you don't gain practical conversational skills in your new language, just saying hello in your guest’s native tongue will make a tremendous first impression. Entiende usted?

 Volunteer

Not only does it help your community, it is a great way to network with other connected people (and your occasional ex-con).  Volunteering allows you to share time together without the dark cloud of "salesyness" floating over it.

 Enroll For A Stand Up Comedy Class

Entrepreneurs need to know public speaking.  If it is selling to the management of a new prospect, or working with a  group of employees, you will always be served by great public speaking skills.  Stand up comedy teaches you to speak without a PowerPoint, gauge your audience, and master improvisation.  All key skills.

 Become A Journalist

Start writing for your local newspaper, or better yet start you own blog. The more you write about your industry, the more of an expert you become.  Plus there is a hidden bonus... you know that prospect who won't take your sales call?  They will probably take your interview.

 

 By Mike Michalowicz, Author of The Toilet Paper Entrepreneur


Category: Exceeding Expectations, Managing Focus, Marketing Like Mad
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  • http://www.identitymagazine.net Susan

    Comedy class! hmm.. I’m tempted :)

    • http://www.ToiletPaperEntrepreneur.com Mike Michalowicz

      Susan – Try it. Try it. Try it. If you sign up, I will!

  • Amir Anzur

    Every one loves a good laugh. But i think knowledge and dedication can take you a long way. But still these are smart tips.

  • http://www.entrepreneurinmaking.com Devesh

    I already do 3 out of 4 and now am going to enroll for a comedy class :)

    • http://www.ToiletPaperEntrepreneur.com Mike Michalowicz

      @Devesh – that is AWESOME!

  • http://www.escu.ee Edgar

    Si lo hago :)

    I’m from Estonia and actually have no connection to Spain. I have learned english for many years. The same with russian, now I’m doing swedish and thinking of starting a chinese course. It is the mentality of a small nation. u have to explain ur culture in other languages.

    Public speakin course is already attended by me. It took a year.

    Im an active volunteer in student organisation, to be exact, volunteer as a member of board.

    Im starting a blog in the nearest weeks.

    OMG, Im already doin this stuff, without even readin it :D :D

    But I can say one thing, IT REALLY WORKS!

    • http://www.ToiletPaperEntrepreneur.com Mike Michalowicz

      @Edgar – Thanks for the feedback! And thanks for checkin’ in from Estonia… that is AWESOME!!!

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