Tuba Siddiqui’s Post

I recently had a chat with a visiting expert that was in the country for a study trip to understand our startup ecosystem and how she can add value, but one of the comment she emphasized on as she concluded her visit was how the lack of soft skills is costing our entrepreneurs opportunities. Having a product is great, but knowing how to turn that solution into a story and interacting with those who are trying to understand it takes an extra step and that's when most opportunities are lost. Here are 5 soft skills you lack and surprisingly costing you millions. #1 Written communication Having a great product or service is just the start. The inability to clearly articulate this value in writing—whether through emails, pitch decks, proposals, or even text messages—can make or break a deal. Every word you write represents your brand. Crisp, clear, and compelling writing is a non-negotiable skill. #2 Verbal communication A great product will only get so far without the ability to speak about it effectively. Whether it's pitching to investors, engaging customers, or collaborating with partners, the way you present your idea matters. And it's not about using big words; it's about being authentic, relatable, and confident. #3 Emotional intelligence Emotional intelligence is the ability to recognize, understand, manage, and influence emotions—both in yourself and others. Human beings are driven and ruled by emotions you have to know how to have them work for you not against you. #4 Civil etiquette A thank-you note after a meeting, showing up on time, or even simply respecting someone’s time by keeping things concise. Professionalism and courtesy aren’t just “nice-to-haves”; they’re the invisible threads that strengthen connections and leave lasting impressions. #5 Receiving feedback Feedback isn’t a personal attack; it’s an opportunity to grow, iterate, and deliver something even better. Stop treating your business as your baby, it's an enterprise. Let people poke holes and expose loopholes that's what grows and sustains businesses. Hey, it's never late to improve. All the above skills can be honed and trained; you just need to acknowledge what your gaps are and start working on them. And get professional training and coaching if need be. End.

I have been coaching founders, executives, and leaders for a few years now, and one thing I've learned is that communication is the most important of all skills. 🗣️ It helps bridge the gap between ambiguity and clarity, driving your vision forward and making sure that everyone—from your team to your customers—understands and shares in your journey. 🚀 If you are an entrepreneur who is just starting out, here are my five most effective communication strategies: 📖Master the Art of Storytelling: Every entrepreneur should be able to craft a compelling narrative about their business. Use storytelling to connect emotionally with your audience, whether it's investors, customers, or your own team. Focus on the ‘why’ of your business and make your story relatable and memorable. 👂Be An Active Listener: Communication is a two-way street. Pay close attention to what others are saying before you respond. Active listening can provide deep insights into your audience's needs and concerns, helping you to customize your messages more effectively and build stronger relationships. 🤫Leverage Strategic Silence: Sometimes, what you don’t say is as powerful as what you do say. Use strategic pauses during discussions or negotiations to allow your points to resonate and give others a chance to contribute. This not only shows respect for others’ opinions but also enhances your gravitas. 📊Make Use Of Visual Communication Tools: In today’s digital age, using visual aids such as infographics, videos, and presentations can make your communication clearer and more engaging. These tools help simplify complex information and ensure that your message is understood across diverse audiences. 🔍Practice Transparency and Consistency: As a new entrepreneur, you must communicate transparently and consistently, especially when it comes to changes that affect your team or clients. Regular updates create an atmosphere of trust and dependability, crucial for any startup’s culture. If you're just starting out and need guidance on these or any other entrepreneurial skills, feel free to DM me. 📬 #TalentRetention #CompetitiveCompensation #ProfessionalDevelopment #CoachingCulture #FlexibleWork #RecognitionAndRewards #EmployeeBenefits #CareerGrowth #WorkLifeBalance #EmployeeEngagement #TopTalent #SkillsDevelopment #OrganizationalCulture #RetentionStrategies #HumanResources

Effective #communication in problem-solving is important for any company. But in a startup, it's crucial for survival. From aligning the objectives of small yet diverse and dynamic teams, to managing workloads, strategy pivots, and quickly adapting to new approaches, processes, and roles… 😣 These are all #challenges we have faced (and will continue to face) as a startup, where communication has played an essential role in the health of the company. We know that delivering a clear and effective message after solving a problem is never easy. So how do we do it at Tennders? 👇 ✔ A broad but consistent #message. We are well aware that we need to be open and honest. This isn’t always easy to achieve, as we may worry that the team will feel dissatisfied, which could affect our internal cohesion. But making decisions and delivering them convincingly is what helps us rally together and move forward as one. ✔ It’s also about telling a good story. In life, we shouldn’t assume that everyone knows what you know. In a team, this becomes even more evident. When a story jumps straight into specific analysis without offering context or explaining the background of the issue, it’s difficult for people to "follow" you and accept your guidance. Take the time to build your case while crafting a solid #narrative. ✔ But make it sound like you. #Authenticity in communication should be more highly valued across all companies. For us, it’s always been important that our messages sound genuine, that our language truly reflects our personal style of speaking. Especially when we find ourselves in a difficult or challenging situation. Of course, it’s important to tailor the message to suit the context or the audience, but sounding authentic is what allows us to build trust, achieve meaningful results, and improve interactions when solving problems. In short, these are the basic principles we strive to apply when communicating findings, decisions, and actions in problem-solving. 💡 Do you share this perspective in your company? Do you rely on other tactics? Share your #experience with us. 💬

🚀 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘀𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝗬𝗼𝘂𝗿 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲: 𝗠𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗔𝗿𝘁 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗅 🚀 Effective communication is more than just exchanging words; it's the cornerstone of success in both professional and personal realms. The impact of poor communication can be far-reaching, causing disruptions and missed opportunities. 🌟 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲:------ 🗣️ 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘀: Clear instructions and feedback are crucial. Misaligned expectations can derail projects. 📉 𝗗𝗲𝗰𝗿𝗲𝗮𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗶𝘁𝘆: Confusion and inefficiency arise from poor communication, leading to delays and frustration. 👥 𝗟𝗼𝘄 𝗠𝗼𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗲: Employees who feel unheard or misunderstood become disengaged and demotivated. 🤝 𝗗𝗮𝗺𝗮𝗴𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀: Consistently poor communication erodes trust and respect, impacting collaboration and team spirit. 💡 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗢𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀: Innovative ideas are lost when team members don’t share their insights. 🌟 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗟𝗶𝗳𝗲:-------- 💔 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗱 𝗥𝗲𝗹𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽𝘀: Misunderstandings and unspoken expectations lead to conflict and resentment. 🌀 𝗘𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗲: Without open communication, emotional connections weaken, leading to feelings of isolation. 🔄 𝗨𝗻𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗼𝗹𝘃𝗲𝗱 𝗜𝘀𝘀𝘂𝗲𝘀: Problems persist when not addressed, causing ongoing stress and tension. 🤗 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗲𝗱 𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁: Loved ones can't provide support if unaware of our struggles and needs. 🔑 𝗟𝗼𝘀𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁: Consistent poor communication damages trust, the foundation of strong relationships. 💡 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆:--------- Effective communication is essential for building strong, productive, and fulfilling relationships. Prioritize active listening, clarity, empathy, and feedback to foster understanding and connection. #Sales #Marketing #Business #Success #Digital #linkedin #entrepreneurship #Communication

twist in the end 😅 Ever had that "aha" moment when a brilliant business idea strikes you out of the blue? It's like a spark igniting in your mind, isn't it? But let's face it, the road from that lightbulb moment to actually building a successful business is filled with twists, turns, and a whole lot of hard work. That's when the real work began. Here's what I learned about nurturing a business concept: 1. Obsess Over the Problem, Not Just the Solution 2. Validate, Validate, Validate 3. Craft Your Blueprint 4. Build Your Dream Team 5. Take the Leap 6. Embrace Failure you must be thinking yes above all are THE key steps But here's the not-so-secret secret: without rock-solid communication, that spark can fizzle faster than a wet firecracker. Why? Because your business concept, no matter how innovative, is just that – a concept. It thrives or dies on how effectively you communicate.  if you can't clearly explain your vision, address concerns, and inspire action, all the planning and strategizing goes up in smoke.  if the decision makers don't listen to your vision, concerns, and inspire your actions, all the planning and strategizing goes up in smoke. That's why communication is the king (or queen) for the business concept. It's the bridge between your brilliant idea and the reality of making it happen. What are your communication hacks for getting buy-in on your ideas? Share in the comments! #entrepreneurlife #businessideas #communicationiskey

“ I'm seated across from a potential collaborator, tensions simmering beneath the surface as we discuss terms. The atmosphere is charged, and it's evident that both parties are fiercely protective of their interests. As the conversation progresses, it becomes apparent that there's a significant misalignment in expectations. Emotions threaten to boil over, but I know that maintaining composure is paramount.” As entrepreneurs, mastering the art of communication is essential for success. 🚀 One crucial aspect? Navigating difficult conversations with grace and confidence. Here are some tips I've found invaluable: 1️⃣ Prepare Mentally: Stay calm, acknowledge emotions, and focus on positive outcomes. 2️⃣ Choose the Right Time and Place: Create a conducive environment for open dialogue. 3️⃣ Be Clear and Direct: Cut through the noise with clear, concise communication. 4️⃣ Use 'I' Statements: Express thoughts and feelings without placing blame. 5️⃣ Listen Actively: Show empathy, ask clarifying questions, and truly hear the other person. 6️⃣ Stay Calm and Respectful: Maintain composure and treat others with dignity. 7️⃣ Focus on Solutions: Collaborate to find mutually beneficial resolutions. 8️⃣ Take Responsibility: Own up to mistakes and apologize sincerely when necessary. 9️⃣ Set Boundaries: Keep discussions on track and redirect if needed. 1️⃣ 0️⃣ Follow Up: Ensure agreements are implemented and maintain open lines of communication. Mastering these tips has helped me foster understanding, respect, and growth in my entrepreneurial journey. What strategies have you found effective in navigating difficult conversations? #communicationskills #leadershipjourney #enterpreneuraljourney #brustro #shilpamaskara #creativehandspvtltd #mompreneurlife

🌟The Power of Your Mindset for Effective Communication!🌟 Did you know that your mindset can make or break your communication skills? 💬✨ From openness to feedback to resilience in tough conversations, the way you think shapes the way you connect. 🧠 Growth vs. Fixed Mindset: Embrace feedback as a tool for growth, not a personal attack. Your communication will flourish! 🌱 💪 Confidence and Self-Esteem: A positive mindset builds confidence, helping you express ideas clearly and assertively. 🤝 Empathy and Understanding: An empathetic mindset bridges gaps, fostering deeper connections and mutual respect. 💡 Resilience and Adaptability: A resilient mindset helps you navigate communication challenges with grace and adaptability. 💬 Perception and Attitude: Your attitude can either open doors to collaboration or create barriers. Stay positive! 🎯 Clarity of Purpose: Know your “why” and communicate with clear intent for maximum impact. 😌 Emotional Regulation: Stay calm, stay clear. Balanced emotions lead to effective and thoughtful communication. 🔍 Problem-Solving Attitude: Focus on solutions, not problems, to drive constructive conversations. 🌍 Cultural Sensitivity: Respect and inclusivity make your communication richer and more effective across diverse groups. 👉 Remember: Communication is more than just words—it's about mindset. Cultivate a positive, open, and empathetic approach to enhance every interaction. 💬💪 📢 Follow Us for more insights into effective communication that goes beyond just English, hit that follow button! Ready to elevate your communication game? Let's dive into the art of Communication!🎭 Student, Working professionals, Entrepreneur, Entrepreneurship, Startup, Business #yp_talks #students #student #jobseekers #job #workingprofessionals #entrepreneur #entrepreneurship #startup #business #businesscoach #businessconsultant #marketing #sales #businessman #smallbusiness #businessowners #letsstart #think #help #inspiration #inspirationalquotes #inspirational #guide #life #lifequotes #collage #trending #communication

Are These 7 Common Phrases Quietly Hurting Your Credibility? All want to communicate effectively, but some everyday phrases can unknowingly chip away at our credibility. Let’s talk about a few and how to say things more powerfully instead: 1. "I’ll give it a shot." ➡ When you say this, it feels like you’re already anticipating failure. ✅ Try: "I’ll have it ready by [date] and will update you as I go." 2. "No offence, but..." ➡ This phrase almost always signals incoming negativity. ✅ Instead: "Here’s my point of view." (It’s assertive but respectful.) 3. "This might sound silly, but..." ➡ Undermines your question or idea before you even express it. ✅ Go with: "I need to clarify something." (Direct and professional.) 4. "That’s not really my job." ➡ This phrase can come across as dismissive or uncooperative. ✅ A better approach: "I’ll help connect you with the right person." 5. "We’ve always done it this way." ➡ Signals resistance to new ideas or improvement. ✅ Shift to: "Let’s consider some new approaches." (Opens the door to innovation.) 6. "I just don’t have time for this." ➡ Makes you seem unwilling to prioritize. ✅ Try: "Let’s figure out the best way to fit this in." 7. "I think…" ➡ Reduces your authority and confidence in what you’re saying. ✅ Say: "Here’s what the data suggests," or "I recommend…" The way we frame our words matters. By making small tweaks to our communication, we can boost our credibility and show up with more confidence every day. #Leadership #ProfessionalGrowth #CommunicationTips #CredibilityBoost #StartupFlux

Adam Grant was a keynote speaker of the Voices by Staffbase Internal Communications conference I attended recently. When asked how to get more actionable, tangible, dare I say useful feedback, he said, "Ask for advice instead of feedback." 🤯 Mind blown. This puts the other person in a position of expertise or power. And people like to feel helpful! Advice makes it more about what knowledge they have to share or lessons they've learned than it does about your performance. You're more likely to get things you can work on and improve when you're already a high performer when you ask for advice over feedback. Have you tried this tactic? Does it work? Final Question: Do you have any advice for me?! I'm all ears 👂🏻 #InternalCommunications #Feedback #Entrepreneurship

Wish I’d known this at 18—this is a goldmine for workplace conversations. After 18 years of entrepreneurship, sitting on the other side of the table, here’s the communication playbook I wish more professionals used in situations like: • Asking for a promotion or raise • Discussing career growth with your manager • Handling performance reviews The key? Speak for yourself—no one represents your value better than you. This is how you start 👇🏼 Before you walk into that room, ground yourself with these five critical questions: ✓ What am I really trying to achieve in this conversation? ✓ Why is this important for me AND the company? ✓ What facts or data can support my case? ✓ How will this impact the person I’m speaking to? ✓ What’s the ideal outcome for both sides? Sharpen your pitch by doing the following: • Cut out anything that doesn’t directly support your message. • Make it clear how what you’re asking for helps the company as much as it helps you. • Focus on your strengths without comparing yourself to colleagues. • Prepare examples that demonstrate your contributions • Be ready for pushback. Anticipate objections and have responses ready. ✅ Start Strong Start with genuine appreciation for your manager or team. When people feel recognized, they’re more open to hearing your case. ✅ Tone Matters How you say something is just as important as what you say. Your tone and delivery will shape how your message is received. ✅ Close with Action End by asking, “What can we do to move this forward?” It turns the conversation into an action plan. 🏆 Pro Tip: Take notes during the discussion and follow up with a written summary. And ask if the host expects an MoM or not required. #CareerAdvice #LeadershipTips #CommunicationSkills #WorkplaceSuccess