Don't Let Your Business Look Cheap: How to Invest in Perception
Running a business goes beyond providing products or services, it's about how your brand is perceived by your target customers. Your brand image speaks volumes before even opening your mouth. An unpolished or "cheap" look could cost credibility and customers. When it comes to the way we present ourselves to others, appearance matters more often than we'd like it to. If your presentation of your business lacks polish and professionalism, no one else will take it seriously either. In this blog, we will look at ways that ensure it looks polished, professional, and worth every cent invested by customers.
First Impressions Are Everything
As they say, first impressions count. Your audience is quickly forming opinions of you through websites, storefronts and marketing initiatives that they experience first-hand. Sloppy design, stock images and an unfocused brand will signal "budget bin." By investing in quality branding you will create an aesthetically pleasing identity that resonates with consumers. Branding goes far beyond choosing an appealing logo, it includes fonts, color schemes and consistent messaging across platforms. When possible, use a professional designer or branding agency. Your business cards should reflect the values and ethos of your brand. Don't skimp out on materials like using card stock, instead give out a foil business card on silk material for the best first impression possible.
Your Website Is Your Digital Suit
Think of your website like the modern-day equivalent of a tailored suit - professionalism, attention to detail, and confidence are hallmarks of excellence that should immediately distinguish your business as trustworthy and competent. Likewise, an outdated site which loads slowly or contains typos may quickly cause potential customers to leave faster than a poorly designed pop-up ad. A clean website designed with intuitive navigation, high-quality images, mobile-friendliness design features as well as updated blog posts are surefire ways of discrediting credibility as quickly.
Say No to Cutting Corners on Customer Experience
One way for businesses to appear cheap is to cut corners when it comes to customer experience. From subpar packaging and slow email response times, too confusing policies that leave your customer scratching their heads. Any slipup can stand out like an eyesore in a luxury store. Make the customer journey as seamless as possible, use quality materials when packaging goods if selling physical goods. Provide outstanding service with fast, personalized responses. Something as simple as including handwritten thank-you notes with orders can leave an impression that can stand out like a neon "SALE" sign.
The Fine Line Between Frugal and Cheap
It's important to distinguish frugal from cheap. Being frugal means getting maximum value from every dollar spent, while cheap often leads to quality sacrifices. Cutting corners elsewhere, for instance by forgoing professional help for graphic design or marketing services, could cost more in the long run as your reputation suffers as you attempt to rebuild it. Save where appropriate but never sacrifice areas that directly affect how customers perceive you.
Conclusion
Your business could provide outstanding services or products, yet remain virtually unknown due to poor presentation. A polished and professional look pays dividends in trust, loyalty and profitability with customers. Don't give potential clients reason to doubt your credibility. After all, nothing about your business suggests "cheapness," so why should its appearance do the same thing?
