Starting your own business image is an pertinent decision. This article is aimed at creating the right image for those who run their own business.
It would be nice to think that your image doesn't matter; that whatever your business, the product or service will sell itself. To a certain extent, this is true. Many a successful business however, has only flourished thanks to a positive business image. You need to create a unique image with which your customers will identify. Above all, you have to appear business-like.
Look carefully at what sort of visual image you want to reflect:
The image you create should be an extension of what you are already. Don't make drastic changes too soon. If you need to make major changes to your image, do so in stages. Start for instance, with a look at the predominant age group of your customers. If your customers are mainly young, dress in a more relaxed and fashionable style. If your market is older and more traditional, adopt a slightly more formal approach. However, it is well worth considering a bold and dramatic dress code if you want to create a dynamic and unique image. Whatever your target market, you do need to inspire confidence in others.
Build up your confidence:
Appear confident, even if you aren't! There are several ways in which you can boost your confidence, including:
Convince yourself that you can become confident.
Identify someone who oozes confidence. Study how they move, their voice, gestures and mannerisms. Copy them until it becomes second nature.
Concentrate on becoming exceptionally knowledgeable about your chosen line of business. This is the best confidence booster of all.
Look critically at your body language and voice projection:
The more confidently you project your voice, the more persuasive you will be. Avoid letting your voice rise excessively. Your speech should not be too rapid. Try not to fidget and display annoying mannerisms. However, the occasional forceful speech or body gesture in order to emphasise a point, can really work to your advantage. Don't overdo it, though. Keep your eye contact as natural as possible. When a client makes a point, smile and nod at each one. This makes your customer feel that you understand his or her requirements.
The question of your car:
In the world of business, your car does matter. Try to blend in with your customers and however old your vehicle may be, make sure that it looks clean and well maintained.
Your stationery:
Every business benefits from a professional and coordinated image when it comes to company stationery. It is well worth putting a lot of thought into creating eye-catching letterheads, compliment slips, business cards, invoices etc. Using quality stationery suggests that you run your business along professional lines and that you are well established and reliable. Ultimately, how successful you are in business depends not only on the marketability of your product or service, but also on the unique image that you create for your company. Never underestimate the impact of a carefully considered company image.
