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Small Business Knowledge Network w/ Jim Vogel – From Handshakes to High-Fives: The Small Business Secret Sauce

The Importance of Soft Skills in Leadership

Jim Vogel, Small Business Knowledge Network

In 2025, interpersonal (soft) skills have emerged as the secret weapon for small business owners seeking to thrive in our changing economy. While tools and strategies are important, genuine connection, adaptability to change, and effective leadership drive real results. For small business leaders, whether running a small brewery, a local shop, or a training agency in North Carolina, communication is everything. It is not just about speaking clearly; it also means active listening, persuasive conversation, and honest feedback. Today’s successful professionals know that empathy and emotional intelligence are invaluable. Understanding your team and customers creates trust, inspires loyalty, and unlocks innovation and improvement.

Small businesses rarely hold still, so adaptability and resilience are indispensable. When the local markets shift or challenges arise, owners and employees who remain calm, resourceful, and ready for change help their teams stay focused and motivated. Critical thinking and creative problem-solving are what distinguish those who merely survive from those who thrive. At the same time, effective leaders inspire, model ethical behavior, and cultivate a positive and inclusive team culture built on trust.

Networking and collaboration are critical. Building strong relationships with employees, fellow business owners, and the broader community fuels mutual growth. Juggling priorities and consistently meeting deadlines are signs of reliability, something clients and partners value immensely. Creativity, meanwhile, is the catalyst for differentiation and innovation.

Negotiation skills and conflict resolution keep relationships smooth in daily operations. A positive attitude and initiative encourage momentum even when times are tough. By nurturing and improving soft skills, small business owners are better equipped to build lasting impact, stronger local ties, and sustainable growth, regardless of industry or market size. This investment in personal growth pays off in every aspect of business and community life.

Success is a team sport!

This post about small businesses is from Jim Vogel, Small Business Ambassador, Cornelius, NC.

Chair, Lake Norman Small Business Network