Professional Image and the Small Business
A small business owner faces many challenges when starting their business. One of the most important is presenting a professional image. This is especially difficult when you work out of your own home.
Whether you have just started your home-based business or have been in business for years, there are some simple things you can do to have a professional image with your customers. It may take a little work, but is well worth the effort.
Phones
For the most part, you will first meet your clients through your telephone. A professional tone and attitude when answering and speaking with your clients and potential clients will show your business in the best light possible.
Locate your office away from the family room so any noise your children might make is not heard during your conversations. If you are going to allow your children to answer your business phone, teach them the proper way to do so.
Consider having a separate line for your business, with an answering machine or service. This way, you will not have to worry about your family tying up your business line during business hours. Also, change your voice mail message daily indicating the date. Make it a point to answer as many messages as you can the same day.
Make Appointments
When a new client wants to meet with you be sure to make an appointment. Let them know if they cannot make the appointment they will need to cancel within 24 hours. Your time is valuable and you should make it clear to your clients.
Get their contact information when you make the appointment and call them the day before to remind them of their appointment time. Make sure they realize that if they miss their time, they will have to reschedule for a new appointment.
Office Space
If possible you should have a room designated as your office. This room should be clear of toys and have a clean, professional appearance. Having a door is a plus, but is not completely necessary. It should be a quiet room away from family distractions.
You will need a desk, bookshelves, and file cabinets. Also you will need a computer, printer and any other accessories your business requires.
Credentials
Make sure your diplomas, certificates and credentials are displayed in your business space. You have worked hard and should showcase your efforts.
Whether you have just started your home-based business or have been in business for years, there are some simple things you can do to have a professional image with your customers. It may take a little work, but is well worth the effort.
Phones
For the most part, you will first meet your clients through your telephone. A professional tone and attitude when answering and speaking with your clients and potential clients will show your business in the best light possible.
Locate your office away from the family room so any noise your children might make is not heard during your conversations. If you are going to allow your children to answer your business phone, teach them the proper way to do so.
Consider having a separate line for your business, with an answering machine or service. This way, you will not have to worry about your family tying up your business line during business hours. Also, change your voice mail message daily indicating the date. Make it a point to answer as many messages as you can the same day.
Make Appointments
When a new client wants to meet with you be sure to make an appointment. Let them know if they cannot make the appointment they will need to cancel within 24 hours. Your time is valuable and you should make it clear to your clients.
Get their contact information when you make the appointment and call them the day before to remind them of their appointment time. Make sure they realize that if they miss their time, they will have to reschedule for a new appointment.
Office Space
If possible you should have a room designated as your office. This room should be clear of toys and have a clean, professional appearance. Having a door is a plus, but is not completely necessary. It should be a quiet room away from family distractions.
You will need a desk, bookshelves, and file cabinets. Also you will need a computer, printer and any other accessories your business requires.
Credentials
Make sure your diplomas, certificates and credentials are displayed in your business space. You have worked hard and should showcase your efforts.
A small business owner faces many challenges when starting their business. One of the most important is presenting a professional image. This is especially difficult when you work out of your own home.
Whether you have just started your home-based business or have been in business for years, there are some simple things you can do to have a professional image with your customers. It may take a little work, but is well worth the effort.
Phones
For the most part, you will first meet your clients through your telephone. A professional tone and attitude when answering and speaking with your clients and potential clients will show your business in the best light possible.
Locate your office away from the family room so any noise your children might make is not heard during your conversations. If you are going to allow your children to answer your business phone, teach them the proper way to do so.
Consider having a separate line for your business, with an answering machine or service. This way, you will not have to worry about your family tying up your business line during business hours. Also, change your voice mail message daily indicating the date. Make it a point to answer as many messages as you can the same day.
Make Appointments
When a new client wants to meet with you be sure to make an appointment. Let them know if they cannot make the appointment they will need to cancel within 24 hours. Your time is valuable and you should make it clear to your clients.
Get their contact information when you make the appointment and call them the day before to remind them of their appointment time. Make sure they realize that if they miss their time, they will have to reschedule for a new appointment.
Office Space
If possible you should have a room designated as your office. This room should be clear of toys and have a clean, professional appearance. Having a door is a plus, but is not completely necessary. It should be a quiet room away from family distractions.
You will need a desk, bookshelves, and file cabinets. Also you will need a computer, printer and any other accessories your business requires.
Credentials
Make sure your diplomas, certificates and credentials are displayed in your business space. You have worked hard and should showcase your efforts.
Whether you have just started your home-based business or have been in business for years, there are some simple things you can do to have a professional image with your customers. It may take a little work, but is well worth the effort.
Phones
For the most part, you will first meet your clients through your telephone. A professional tone and attitude when answering and speaking with your clients and potential clients will show your business in the best light possible.
Locate your office away from the family room so any noise your children might make is not heard during your conversations. If you are going to allow your children to answer your business phone, teach them the proper way to do so.
Consider having a separate line for your business, with an answering machine or service. This way, you will not have to worry about your family tying up your business line during business hours. Also, change your voice mail message daily indicating the date. Make it a point to answer as many messages as you can the same day.
Make Appointments
When a new client wants to meet with you be sure to make an appointment. Let them know if they cannot make the appointment they will need to cancel within 24 hours. Your time is valuable and you should make it clear to your clients.
Get their contact information when you make the appointment and call them the day before to remind them of their appointment time. Make sure they realize that if they miss their time, they will have to reschedule for a new appointment.
Office Space
If possible you should have a room designated as your office. This room should be clear of toys and have a clean, professional appearance. Having a door is a plus, but is not completely necessary. It should be a quiet room away from family distractions.
You will need a desk, bookshelves, and file cabinets. Also you will need a computer, printer and any other accessories your business requires.
Credentials
Make sure your diplomas, certificates and credentials are displayed in your business space. You have worked hard and should showcase your efforts.
posted by zzzzzzzzzzz at
3:50 AM
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