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Ben Carson’s Speech to HUD and Lessons for Entrepreneurs

Yesterday, Ben Carson gave his first speech to HUD yesterday and provided 3 lessons for entrepreneurs.

Ben Carson is in the news because his first speech to HUD where he referred to slaves as immigrants has garnered a great deal of attention. Entrepreneurs should pay attention to this story because it has 3 lessons for entrepreneurs. These lessons are:

  • Words matter
  • Say what you mean and mean what you say
  • Your word is your bond


Words matter

Entrepreneurs talk with employees, prospects and peers every day. It is important to keep in mind the fact that words matter. Each opportunity to speak with is an opportunity to give a message, or even to encourage, inspire and motivate others to do something. When you speak with others, your words matter. You must pay attention to the definition, context and history behind the words you use to convey your message.


Say what you mean and mean what you say

You do not get a second chance to make a first impression. You must choose your words carefully. When you speak to others, say what you mean and mean what you say. If you mean something is blue, say it is blue. Do not say it is green and expect people to know that you meant the thing was blue. The only thing that people have to go by to understand what you mean is the words you use. Speak carefully and say exactly what you want to say.


Your word is your bond

Once upon a time,  people would greet you and say, “My word is my bond.” It meant that if someone made you a promise, that promise would be kept. It meant that if a person said something, they meant what they said and you could safely rely upon it. People don’t say it as often as they once did. Often, people try to get out of what they say. People say things and make feeble, bad attempts not to be bound by the words they say.

As an entrepreneur, never forget that your words matter. When you speak with others, no matter what the context, remember that you must say what you mean and mean what you say. Finally, when you give you word, keep it. Make your word be as binding as super glue.  So, the question for smart entrepreneurs this terrific day is what is your word worth?