Vishal P. Rao
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Joined: 23 Jun 2005
Posts: 854
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# Posted: 24 Aug 2005 02:29 · Edited by: Vishal P. Rao
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Creating a professional image is critical to the success of your home based business. There is a mis-conception among many home based business owners that they can't afford to create a professional image on a small start-up budget. Not only is creating that image possible even with limited funds, it's something you can't afford not to do.
Here are a few ways to create that image:
1) Harmless Fictions: Indulging in harmless fiction here and there can only pump up the image of your business. So, you shouldn't curb yourself from doing so. The first and foremost thing is to get a fictitious business name registered, as having a professional company name on your letterhead and business cards acts towards formulating a professional image of your business in the minds of your potential clients.
2) Office Address: Get a serviced office for yourself. Though this office can only be used as a post office, you can always use its address on your business cards and letterhead, to impress your customers. This is a very good and economical idea to gain the confidence of your potential customers, for whom a residential address for a business office can spell danger.
3) Telephones: Get a second phone line or a cellular phone which is dedicated exclusively to your business. Not only does this allow you to keep your family's privacy secure, but it also prevents your children or loved ones from answering important business calls in an unprofessional manner.
4) Email and Internet: The address and telephone number of your office, your email address should also spell professionalism. Instead of giving the email address with your name, you should opt for getting an email address in the name of your company. It shows better and will invite customers to send you emails. If you have a website, you may want to add it on your stationary and every time you send an email. Customers like visuals and having your website stated will help them get more information.
5) Stationery and Office Equipment: Your office stationery and office equipment should also reflect a professional business image. Make sure of getting your business cards and letterheads printed on quality stationery stock. Also, don't hesitate in investing in good quality equipment, like laser printers, etc. Often you can get these equipments at discounted rates.
6) Provide Multiple Payment Methods: Incorporating a wide choice of payment methods only boost the image of your business. One can easily accept credit cards and online checks using popular payment processors linke PayPal. A nominal charge is levied on each transaction but it's worth it compared to the hassles of maintaining your own merchant account, at least initially.
7) Deliver on Your Promises: Most believe the hard part gets over once the sale is made. Wrong! Customers can become repeat customers if they are treated well; they can also bring additional customers your way via word-of-mouth referrals. Treating them well means delivering on your promises, including shipping products on schedule, sending courtesy notes and standing behind your guarantee. Giving a good customer service is also an effective way to compensate for lack of some the above business elements.
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