Often in business, the focus is very much on the practical side. Not a lot of thought goes into the visual aspect of running a business. Now, I know what you’re going to say. Looks aren’t important. It’s what is on the inside that counts, right? That couldn’t be further from the truth. You can provide the most sophisticated service imaginable. It all counts for nothing if your aesthetic appeal is what is driving customers away. And believe me, that happens. A lot.
When consumers are making those decisions, their thought process can be easily swayed by presentation. You need to stand out from the crowd. Here’s how to make first impressions count.
Office Premises
If you own and operate your own office space, it’s imperative that you keep it looking good. This is especially true if you are ever going to be expecting external clients to visit you. That doesn’t mean just kiting the conference room out with a few decorate plants, either. Though that’s a good starting point, at least.
Your workspace should always be clean and tidy. That’s the minimum expectation. Hire a commercial cleaning service to come in at the very least on a weekly basis.
The interior design of your office space doesn’t need to be anything out of the ordinary, but it should be smart. The more thought you put into it, the better. Think about things like decoration. Business door hangers, an awards cabinet and suchlike.
Pay close attention to the front of your building. Many people often overlook this aspect, but you shouldn’t. Why? Because that’s what people are going to see when they walk or drive past. It should be a visual that sells your company to the masses. It’s time to get houseproud.
Web Design
It’s never been more important to have a significant web presence. Chances are, I’m not telling you anything you don’t already know about the value of the internet. In all likelihood, you already operate your own website. But what does it look like?
I cannot stress this enough: nobody is going to be sold on your product if your website doesn’t look the part. There have been so many instances when I’ve opted against using a particular service because their website wasn’t quite up to par. Nothing says unprofessional like a hastily designed site.
And you can bet I’m not the only one. Think of your website as your storefront. You want it to be looking the best it possibly can at all times. One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to think you can skimp in this area. It might seem superficial, but people are superficial by nature.
Enlist the help of a good web design firm. Note: good. That doesn’t mean some undergrad working out of his parents’ basement. You want a professional with a solid portfolio of work. Do not settle for anything less.
Above all, it should go without saying that you should always look professional and presentable, too. These principles start with you, so make sure you’re always clean and tidy.
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