Once your company starts generating a profit, you’ll need to focus on turning the personal project into a professional business.
Many entrepreneurs don’t have access to a knowledgeable IT department, graphic designer, or professional web designer when getting their small business up and running. A bootstrapped business owner will, therefore, have to utilize their limited skills and resources to kickstart their venture. However, once a company is generating a profit, you’ll need to focus on turning the personal project into a professional business.
For help doing exactly that, read the five ways to make your business appear more professional.
1. Change Your Logo
A poor-quality logo will inform a potential customer that your business lacks professionalism and attention to detail.
If your logo looks anything less than impressive, you must consult an experienced graphic designer. A graphic designer will
Once you have a professional logo, ensure to incorporate it on all product packaging, social media campaigns, and your website. Plus, you could feature your company logo on custom metal signs, which will become a focal point at your bricks and mortar location.
2. Provide a Dedicated Phone Number
A dedicated phone number will provide your customers or clients with a direct line to your business, so your personal number can remain private. Doing so will not only boost your professionalism, but it will allow you to switch off after business hours and can prevent you from accidentally calling a customer.
3. Secure a Business Address
Even if you’re still running a business from the comfort of your own home, you’ll need to provide your customers with a business address. Many companies can provide business addresses for brands to promote on their website, letterheads, brochures, etc. and their mail can be picked up or redirected to an entrepreneur. This will ultimately prevent both customers and suppliers from knowing where you live.
What’s more, a business address in a reputable area could increase your brand’s reputation and trustworthiness.
4. Order Premium Business Cards
Every business owner should have a stack of premium business cards, which he or she can hand to potential clients, suppliers or business associates when an opportunity arises.
A high-quality card can increase your company’s legitimacy and professionalism, so they can be a great way to grow your network and build strong relationships across your industry.
5. Tweak Your Website
While a simple website might have helped you to land your first customers, a minimalistic design, slow page speed or a poor layout could be holding your new business back.
As your website will serve as the front door to your business online, you must ensure it is visually appealing and easy to use.
It is essential to hire a talented web designer to create a site that complements your:
- Branding
- Target audience
- Customer behavior
6. Invest in a Company Uniform
If your company offers face-to-face transactions, ensure every member of staff wears a company uniform that features your brand’s logo. While they don’t need to wear a formal outfit every day, you should request they wear a cool t-shirt or shirt with your branding.
It will inject instant credibility and professionalism into the business and could evoke trust in your products and/or services.
