Today, I’m excited to dive into a topic that’s close to my heart, especially for those of you who are newer to the online business game. I often work with beginners, and one common theme that comes up is the assumption that success in online business should come naturally. I want to debunk that myth and share five skills that every online business owner must master.
But before we jump into that, let me share a little JillFit history. When I started my online journey in 2010 as a blogger, I wasn’t a natural writer. In fact, my early blogs were terrible! I was more comfortable with math and science, given my fitness background. But guess what? After blogging every day for months and months, I slowly started getting better. And just like my writing, my business skills started improving, too.
Business (including online business!) is a skill, just like anything else. You won’t be great right away, but you can be if you practice!
Conversational Writing and Copywriting.
Many of us haven’t written long-form content since high school or college, and even then, it wasn’t necessarily conversational or compelling. Copywriting, the art of compelling someone to take action, is a skill that must be learned and practiced. My early blogs were a testament to this; they were far from perfect. To improve, I suggest reading more, learning from resources like “Magic Words,” and, of course, practicing the craft.
Speaking or Presenting
Whether it’s through webinars, videos, or podcasts, engaging your audience with your voice is crucial. My early experiences were cringe-worthy; I stumbled, mumbled, and lacked confidence. But practice makes perfect. Use Instagram or Facebook stories for low-stakes practice. The more you put yourself out there, the more comfortable and engaging you’ll become.
Selling
I know it can be intimidating, but selling is about confidently asking for what you’re worth. If you’re worried about being perceived as pushy or annoying, shift your mindset. Selling is about finding the right fit, not convincing everyone. Remember, people like buying things, especially if it solves a problem for them. Embrace selling as a way to help others and watch your business thrive.
Leading and Championing
As an online business owner, you’re also a leader. You must champion your beliefs and enroll your audience in what you’re passionate about. This involves steering conversations and consistently presenting your message. Take inspiration from those you follow who successfully get you excited about their cause, and emulate that in your brand.
Objectivity and Decisiveness
You will face challenges in your business—guaranteed. Objectivity is your ability to stay calm and clinical when problems arise. Don’t let emotions hijack your decision-making. Decisiveness is equally vital. Reduce the time between ideation and implementation. It’s okay if the answer is no; what matters is closing the loop and moving forward.
Remember, your journey as an online business owner is a continuous learning process. Embrace these skills, be patient with yourself, and most importantly, practice. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned entrepreneur, mastery is a journey, not a destination. So go out there, rip off the bandaid, and start practicing those skills today.
