Whether you’re presenting to a client or drafting an email, every word you use can either make or break a deal. Using words that sell and saying it right the first time are essential principles for any entrepreneur.

THE POWER OF WORDS THAT SELL

Words are tools for exchanging information, and powerful instruments for persuasion, trust-building, and decision-making. Words that sell refers to language intended to convince and convert.

1. Use Words That Create Urgency: Phrases and words that convey a sense of urgency push potential buyers into making quicker, more confident decisions. For example, instead of saying, "You could sign up for our service," try something more compelling like, "Sign up today to unlock exclusive benefits."

2. Focus on Benefits Over Features: People don’t buy products, they buy solutions. When writing or speaking about your product or service, focus on what it will do for your customer, not just what it is. Know the difference between a description and a solution.

3. Be Concise: Clarity is vital. Long-winded sentences, or overly technical language can confuse or lose your audience. The best ‘selling’ words are short, direct and easily understood. Think "boost your sales" instead of "increase the efficiency of your revenue-generating operations." The KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid) concept works well here.

4. Use Positive Language: Positive words are proven to create optimism and trust. Phrases like "easy," "guaranteed," "safe," and "proven" evoke a sense of security and reliability, making your audience feel confident in their decision. Saying, “Our product is a guaranteed solution,” sounds far more reassuring than “Our product may work for you.”

SAYING IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME

In business, it’s rare that you get to make a second first impression. This is why saying it right the first time is so important.

1. Be Genuine and Honest: Authenticity is key. If your message feels insincere, your audience will sense it. Be upfront and honest about what you offer. If something doesn't align with your service, never overpromise. Clients appreciate transparency; it builds long-term trust.

2. Know Your Audience: Understand who you're speaking to and tailor your message accordingly. Saying it right the first time means using language and tone that aligns with your audience’s needs, values, and pain points. When your message speaks directly to their priorities, you have their attention.

3. Keep It Focused: Avoid overwhelming someone with too much information. Saying it right the first time delivers a clear, focused message that addresses a key point. This allows your audience to process your main idea without getting lost in the details (information overload).

4. Deliver with Confidence: Confident delivery is critical when saying it right the first time. If you sound tentative, even the most well-crafted words won’t hit home. Whether you’re speaking in front of a room or writing a proposal, your tone should be assertive but never arrogant. Your audience will be more likely to act when they recognize your confidence.

COMBINING WORDS THAT SELL WITH SAYING IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME

To truly excel in business communication, you need to combine the power of words that sell with the discipline of saying it right the first time. Here’s how they work together:

• Craft your message with purpose: Use words that persuade while ensuring your message is authentic and clear. This not only captures attention but also builds trust.

• Be concise yet impactful: Don’t waste your audience’s time with unnecessary verbiage; the right words, delivered clearly and with conviction, will resonate powerfully.

• Always consider the outcome: Whether you’re seeking to close a sale, build a partnership, or simply inform, keep the end goal in mind. Every word should move your audience closer to that goal.

The right words have the power to persuade, while the right delivery ensures your message is understood, remembered, and acted upon.