When I hired someone to design my first Web site for another business I owned several years ago, I thought it looked incredible. When I look back at that crappy site, I can’t believe I was proud of it. My site and business focus have changed over the years. Now this site reflects who I am and what my business can do.
Do you know how your business looks to the outside world? As your client base grows and your business gets busier, you may start to ignore the basics. Take time to look at your business from an outsider’s point of view.
- Analyze your Web site. Does it reflect the tone and style of your business today? Your product photos and blog should be up-to-date. You don’t need to blog every day but a few times a week is ideal. If you want honest feedback about your site, ask for it. Six months ago I sent a short survey to friends, acquaintances and clients to get their input and insight. Their feedback helped me make a few changes to improve my site.
- Read a few of your outgoing messages. If you were supposed to attach a document, did you? Are there typos? Spell check will catch misspelled words but it can’t tell you automatically whether you’re using the right version of a word.
- Listen to your voice mail message. Can you hear your kids or spouse in the background? Make sure that your voice is clear and easy to understand. Don’t forget to ask the caller to leave a detailed message that includes their phone number and the best time to return their call.
- Check to make sure the contact information on your business card is current. Business cards are cheap. Instead of crossing out an old phone number, order new cards. Also, make sure that your card is easy to read. A business card I saw last week had a light background, which made the white type hard to read.
Sometimes the image you have of your business can be a bit distorted. Make sure that what others see is a true reflection.
