In today’s high-tech environment, an entrepreneur can think of a business idea and have that business up and running on the same day with a website. If you search the Internet, you can find just about any type of business imaginable, and many of those businesses are making money. Whether you are thinking of starting a virtual business or one with a physical presence such as a store, gift kiosk in a mall, consulting or another venture, if you want your business to thrive, you must find ways to establish trust with clients and customers.
First Impressions
First, your business must look as good as it’s managed. Whether your business is on the web or on a street corner, it has to attract customers. There has to be something that beckons them to look at what you have to offer. That might be a well-designed website that is easy to navigate, or it may be a neat, clean and stylish storefront rather than a rundown building. If you stock high-value inventory, an expert from City Fence recommends erecting a fence around your location, to show customers you’re dedicated to security. When the first impression is a good one, people trust that what’s on the inside is high quality.
Reputation Management
Second, provide some evidence of a track record. What makes you good at what you do? If you set up an online consulting business, you should be able to provide references or some evidence that you have expertise in your consulting field. If you run a business from a physical location, put your best products on display. For example, if the business is a bakery, your products need to look appetizing, and they need to taste good. Allow customers to sample and, if they like what they taste, you have gained their trust and they will buy again and again.
Customer Service
Third, if a customer has a problem with a product or service, do everything you can to make things right. Some things may be out of your control, but if the customer purchases a product that he or she thinks is inferior, give a refund or replace the product and offer them a discount. This will go a long way toward keeping that customer for life.
Finally, do all that you can to keep your customers’ personal financial information secure. Almost weekly there is some news story about data breaches and hacking incidents that result in credit card numbers and other personal information being stolen. Find a reputable IT consultant that can help you set up your electronic money handling systems securely; and make sure customers your know that your website or credit card handling system is protected.
