In today's interconnected world, it's crucial for businesses to appear legitimate and professional. Consumers are smarter than ever and are looking for certain things when deciding whether or not to trust a business or business owner, so it's essential to make impression from the start. As the old saying goes, "You only get one chance to make a first impression," and this still holds true today.
This post will talk about how to look professional online, on the phone, and in person to appear more professional to potential customers, partners, and potential lenders.
This post is part of our expert series where Skip funding & business experts share their insights. If you'd like 1-1 help with your business, check out Skip memberships.
Set Up A Professional Email Address
A professional online appearance includes both a website and email address. Let's talk about the latter one, since many business owners still use @gmail or @hotmail or even @aol. For potential customers, this is a bit jarring and does not show much trust or professionalism.
In short: You should be telling your customers to email you at john@yourcompanyname.com instead of iplayvideogamesallday392@gmail.com.
To do this, one option is go to PorkBun or any other domain registration company and register a domain for a year. Then if you’re planning on building a website (highly recommended), most web hosts offer free email accounts with their services. If you’re not ready for a website, you can use Zoho Mail to connect the domain you just registered for free and create a free, professional looking email.
In the below video, Ryder shows how to set up a business email using Gsuite from Google.
Answer The Phone Professionally with a Dedicated Number
On the phone: “Who’s this?” Is that a proper way to answer a business call? Hint: It’s not. Something as simple as, “Insulation Company, how can I help you?” or even, “Insulation Company” will come across much more professional to a potential customer.
Let’s say your phone has multiple uses like using it for business calls and personal or for multiple businesses. Answering the phone with, “This is John, how may I help you?” Still sounds a lot better than, “Who’s this?”
You don’t have to answer the phone perfectly, every time, but if you can it helps you appear more professional and can remove some of the skepticism that starts with the initial contact.
In addition, you should consider getting a dedicated phone number for your business. There are many reasons for this but mainly so the business is not dependent on your cell phone. You can route the number to your phone, or, if you want to send the call to someone else on your team, you can also do that. Here are some options.
Appear Professional Both In Person and On Calls
When it comes to in-person interactions, the expectations for appearance can differ depending on the industry you're in. Certain industries may have specific dress codes or require uniforms.
Regardless of your industry, it's important to present yourself in a way that aligns with the expectations of your field. You want to look the part and reflect a professional image that corresponds to your industry.
Lenders, grant providers and customers can use these things to judge you and your business. These tips can make a difference in whether you’re thought of as a serious business or a fly-by-night company. These can also be differentiators in your business, being able to command top prices or having to be the lowest bidder every time.
A small amount of self-awareness can go a long way. We can’t always be perfect, but we can try to give the best presentation of ourselves.
These are all minor things that when added up can cause red flags. Don’t let any of these things stop you though, getting your business name and services out there should be your primary focus, perfection can be attained as you move forward.
This post is part of our expert series where Skip funding & business experts share their insights. If you'd like 1-1 help with your business, check out Skip memberships.