Image is everything
In business image is everything, whether it’s the uniforms that your employees wear of the bill that your customer receives, making a good impression can have a lasting effect. Make sure that you have a good consistent image across your entire business, you can archive this by looking at the following;
Logos - A good clear and meaningful logo can set you apart from the competition and acts like a beacon for your business, as such its important to get it right. If necessary hire someone to create you logo, under no circumstances should you use clip art as your logo. Your logo should appear on all your documents, bills, merchandise, and anything else that is associated with you business.
Uniforms - If your business requires uniforms, make sure they are always clean, distinguishable, and have your business name on them.
Employees - They should always look presentable, and be helpful, they should know about the product or service that they are selling and be approachable. A customer who has a bad experience with employees is unlikely to come back.
Premises - This includes all the places where you conduct business and meet customers, they should always be clean, open, and safe. If you work from home, dedicate one room for clients, and keep it clear of personal items, and make sure it has essentials, like a desk and chairs.
Stationary - Follow a consistent format for all your documents, this includes, letters, invoices, receipts, and quotations. Everything should have your logo, business name, postal address, company number if applicable, website address, and telephone number. They should all be easy to read using a clear good sized font, this should be true even if you are a creative business.
Creating the right image cannot be underestimated, customers feel more comfortable with businesses that present the right image than with those that don’t. They also feel less resentful of paying your prices if they can see that you care about them. Similarly a small, smelly back alley shared office never creates a good image.
