Whether you are starting a new business, or you want to kick-start your current brand with a great promotional push, you want to make sure that you portray the correct image. This could be to new suppliers or your potential customers, so you’ll need to ensure nothing is out of place—after all, you don’t want what you may think is a minor point to be the deciding factor in securing an outstanding deal.
Making a great first impression could push your brand to success or failure, even if you have been working in the business for several years. There are many tasks you can carry out now, so you can guarantee you represent the image you want to show to the rest of the world—and your industry. Follow these guidelines, and you could help boost your potential.
Be prepared
Making sure that you are prepared will help you to show more authority, as well as reduce anxiety. You can have a significant advantage over your rivals if you do your homework – so learn all you can about your potential client and their approach to business before going to a meeting. Also, find out about the company’s history and recent events in the industry.
The same should also apply to other areas of your business, too. For instance, to make sure your brand’s IT system is up to standard and well maintained, use IT support services such as those provided by Online Computers to ensure your technology is current, secure and correct for your uses.
Make sure you can be found
You can create a wrong first impression if people go to your website and cannot find basic information about you. So, for instance, include details such as your phone number, postcode, and directions – and check that your site does not hide away these essential details. If a potential client ends up searching for it on complicated page structures, they may think you do not want to speak with them.
Check that your phone number is on every page of your website, and directions to your office are clear. Also, ensure that your postcode works in sat-nav systems and on Google Maps.
Invest in your reception
Your reception area is where all first impressions are formed. You can get an idea of the ‘buzz’ of a brand from the welcome you get when you arrive. Successful organizations will have someone who will swiftly ask how you are, deal with you efficiently, and offer you a drink. Your reception should reflect your business, plus it gives you the chance to make an impression and communicate your messages.
Encourage testimonials
Few items make as much impact as a personal recommendation. Offering rewards to customers for bringing in others is a great way to do this, for instance. You can also do this online with your brand, such as having ‘how did you hear from us’ options on a web form or having recommendation emails. This can create brand loyalty and show customers you appreciate their business.
