On the path from entrepreneurial startup to successful business, there are a variety of important steps to take. This is an exciting time for any business owner, as the fruits of your labor finally start to pay off, and you can take your new company in whatever direction you like. Increased exposure, a growing client base, more professional and streamlined service, and a bigger and happier staff are all part of this process.
The jump from word-of-mouth to actual paid advertising is a significant one, and represents a significant step forward for your brand. Choosing the most effective form of advertising can be daunting, but if your business has grown this much so far you should have a good idea of what sort of people it attracts, and how you might best reach more of them. Print, online, television, and public space advertising (like billboards and signposts) all have unique advantages and disadvantages. Consider carefully before investing in one type, and try to gauge accurately how many additional customers you receive as a result of your campaign. What untapped markets can you access by branching out and targeting new groups of people? The more potential clients that are exposed to your brand, the better your odds are of picking up additional business.
As new customers come knocking on your door, it is important that their experience is top-quality from start to finish. To turn a first-time visitor into a returning one that tells all of his or her friends and family about how great your company is, ensure that every step of interaction is positive and valuable. This depends on a combination of your staff’s demeanor and helpfulness, the price to quality ratio of your products or services, and the overall impression that you and your business leave. The mantra that “the customer is always right” may be frustrating at times, but it is generally the best way to make sure that people leave satisfied.
As your company grows, staff effectiveness and satisfaction must also be attended to. The salary that you pay your employees reflects highly on you as a manager and on your company’s priorities as a whole. Benefits are another key component here. Company cars are an often-overlooked way to make your employees immensely loyal and happy, not to mention more punctual. Look into cost-effective leasing options for business vehicles for a great way to boost your staff benefits.
While this advice may all seem simple, it is especially important at this critical time for your business’ future. Pay careful attention to how your company can increase its profile, create happy returning customers, and fulfill its employees (our top recommendation? Leasing4Business, one of the best options available anywhere). You’re well on your way to creating a truly successful enterprise. Good luck!
