TECOM SME Builder highlights importance of Communication in Business Development

SME owners are constantly on the lookout to take their business to the next level. Gaining expert advice is becoming increasingly important to take the right action at anaccurate time. Effective communication is extremely powerful in times like these when one conversation can define the difference between success and failure, according to Phil Bedford, Master Franchisee, Referral Institute.

Bedford’s comments came at the 14^th edition of the triennial TECOM SME Builder organized by Dubai Knowledge Village, the region’s premier destination for human resource management and a member of TECOM Investments’ Education Cluster.Sponsored by Emirates NBD, the event drew the participation of over 100 individuals.

Held on 24 November at the Dubai Knowledge Village Conference Centre, the free event aimed at enhancing the advancement of SMEs in the UAEthrough providing them with access to a pool of experts from various sectors.The TECOM SME Builder also offered ideal networking opportunities for all participants, allowing the exchange of ideas, best practices and problem solving tools. The event allowed participants to identify avenues for skills enhancementthat would ultimately benefit the organisation.

Dr. Ayoub Kazim, Managing Director, TECOM Investments’ Education Cluster, said: “The SME sector has shown significant expansion over the last few years, driven by theincentivised business landscape. Companies such as TECOM Investments offer SMEs a business environment with support services that encourage them to set up in the region.The TECOM SME Builder is one such tool.

“In today’s fiercelycompetitive business landscape, it is imperative for businesses to remaincurrent on industry trends and competitor activities. The TECOM SME Builder offers access to resources including experts’ strategic advice to optimise operations in the UAE and the region. In addition, networking and business development opportunities are also made available.”

Presentations by leading experts on an array of subjects including marketing, public relations, sales, finance, innovation, law, networking and referrals, strategy, digital and marketing communications, body language, social media and recruitment headlined the event. Sessions delivered included ‘Successful Body Language for Business - How to build rapport through non-verbal communication’ was delivered by Lucy Hay, Managing Director, Expressions and ‘A Functional Approach to Social Media’ by Alexander Rauser, CEO Prototype.

Hay said: “Communication skills can make or break a deal, but it is of immense importance to consider the effect our body language has on our performance. It can make the difference between success and failure.Body language is critical to our overall message and we cannot afford to ignore it. Facial expressions convey unspoken messages to the client as does a handshake. Body language may also end up offendingaperson.”

Potential, a leading UAE-based business development company and business partner of Dubai Knowledge Village extended its support to the initiative through its participation at the event.

ShadiBanna, Managing Partner, Potential, said: “We are glad to participate in yet another edition of the TECOM SME Builder as part of our aim to help small and medium enterprises improve their business efficiency and empower them to compete on the international level. In line with this vision, we believe that the seminar plays an integral role in supporting the sector in the region.”

Dubai Knowledge Village regularly hosts events that support and encourage the growth of businesses in the region.

Established in 2003, Dubai Knowledge Village is home to over 450 professional centres specialized in HR development, professional testing, as well as management training and consultancy services.