KEC Mentor Network Guest Blog Post: Halee Sprinkle

So Many “C” Words

By Halee Sprinkle, Czech Yourself Marketing

There are so many “C” words that are vital in entrepreneurship. Don’t be weird. I’m talking about Communication, Confidence, and Community to name a few.

In many of my one-on-one consultations, I have found that small business owners often struggle with effectively communicating about their business. Whether you’re introducing yourself at a networking event, pitching your services to potential clients, or simply explaining your business to someone who asks, clear and compelling communication can open doors you never imagined. On the flip side, unclear language or hesitant explanations can quickly turn people away. 

The Power of Your Words

A great pitch isn’t just for Shark Tank—it’s for every conversation you have about your business. People will give you 8 to 10 seconds to catch their attention. During this time, they decide whether they’re interested in learning more, so having a concise and engaging pitch ready to go is essential. Here’s how to craft one:

1. Start with the Problem You Solve: People connect with stories and challenges. Begin your pitch by identifying the problem your audience can relate to or understand.
2. Explain Your Solution Clearly: Be specific about what you offer and how it makes life easier, better, or more enjoyable.
3. Add a Memorable Hook: This could be a surprising statistic, a bold claim, or a relatable example.
4. Close with Your Ask: Whether you’re seeking investment, partnership, or even just a follow-up conversation, make sure to end with a clear call to action.

Example: A Meal Prep Business

I’ve been looking for a meal prep business so let’s use it as an example. Here’s how you could apply these steps:

1. Start with the Problem You Solve: “Many busy professionals struggle to find time to cook healthy meals, often resorting to fast food or processed options.” (Potential Customer/Me: Yes, this is so me. Please continue.)
2. Explain Your Solution Clearly: “Our service provides fresh, ready-to-eat meals made from locally sourced ingredients, tailored to your dietary preferences and delivered right to your door.” (Potential Customer/Me: I am gluten-free and strive for low sugar, still listening!)
3. Add a Memorable Hook: “Did you know the average American spends over 6 hours a week deciding what to eat? We give you that time back.” (Potential Customer/Me: I HAVE DECISION FATIGUE AND I NEED MORE HOURS!)
4. Close with Your Ask: “We’d love for you to try a week of our meals and experience the difference. Visit our website to see our menu or ask me how to get started.” (Potential Customer/Me: Done. Take my money.)

Another example, when someone asks me what I do, instead of simply saying, “I’m a marketing consultant,” I’ll try my best to say, “I help overwhelmed entrepreneurs create social media marketing strategies that are as impactful as they are manageable, so they can focus on growing their business and living their best lives.” It’s short, to the point, and highlights the value I provide. And I can say it in under 10 seconds (yes, I timed myself)!

The Big “C” Word (don’t be weird)

Confidence is the glitter that makes your entrepreneurial dreams shine—it shapes how you approach challenges, build relationships, and lead your business.  Even if you’re nervous, there are ways to project confidence (a.k.a. fake it until you make it):

• Practice, Practice, Practice: Rehearse your pitch out loud until it feels second nature. 
• Use Positive Body Language: Stand tall, maintain eye contact, and smile.
• Breathe and Pace Yourself: Speaking too quickly can make you seem unsure. Pausing occasionally gives you time to think and allows your captive audience to absorb what you’re saying. Remember, 8-10 seconds of attention span!

I’ll never forget the first time I pitched my services to a room full of strangers. My heart was racing, and I was doubting myself while I waited for my turn to speak. But because I had practiced, I knew my pitch inside and out. That preparation carried me through, and by the end of the event, I had a new client that is my longest standing client to date (going on 7 years).

The Art of Networking

Networking isn’t just about business cards and handshakes. Yuck. I despise those types of events. I have honestly never secured a client from a “business cards & handshakes” type of event. While, yes, they are beneficial to meet new people, they are not set up for relationship building nor making true connections. Here are some tips for making meaningful connections:

• Ask Open-Ended Questions: People love talking about themselves, and asking questions like, “What inspired you to start your business?” can lead to engaging conversations.
• Find Common Ground: Whether it’s a shared industry challenge or a favorite hobby, finding a connection can make interactions more memorable.
• Follow Up: Send a quick email or LinkedIn message after meeting someone. Mention something specific from your conversation to show you were paying attention.

I once met a potential client at a casual marketing training I led (class was held in the middle of a furniture store, so fun!). We bonded over our love of boating, and that connection led to an ongoing business partnership. The key was being my authentic self- listening, sharing, and being genuinely curious about his business journey. 

Speaking at Events

Public speaking is a fantastic way to establish yourself as an expert in your field and gain visibility. No, it is not for everyone, and this is ok, BUT I have seen many introverts conquer their fear and find a whole new line of revenue in their speaking engagements. Even for seasoned presenters it can be intimidating, a few strategies can help:

• Know Your Audience: Tailor your message to what your audience cares about. BE RELATABLE!
• Structure Your Talk: A clear beginning, middle, and end keeps your audience engaged. Think of your speech or training as a story and keep them wanting more!
• Engage Your Listeners: Ask questions, use visuals, or share personal stories to keep your audience invested. Make them feel a part of it, that will keep them invested and interested to be listening.

One of my favorite speaking experiences was at an entrepreneur’s meetup featuring a panel sharing their real-life business journeys. I shared the behind-the-scenes story of my business, from its inception as just an idea to struggling to achieve my revenue goals in the first two years. I detailed all the ups and downs and how I built my personal brand. Not only did I gain new followers, but several attendees also reached out for consultations afterward.

Bringing It All Together

Communicating about your business is an ongoing process. It’s not just about memorizing a pitch or delivering a speech—it’s about connecting with others and sharing your passion with confidence. Every conversation is an opportunity to learn, grow, and refine your message.

So, the next time someone asks, “What do you do?” take a deep breath, smile, and seize the moment. You never know where that conversation might lead! Adventure awaits. Sparkle responsibly.