When it comes to business, first impressions count. If you want to acquire new customers or increase conversions, you’ll need to ensure that your target audience are engaged from the get-go. To make sure you’re maximizing your profitability, take a look at these simple ways to ensure your business makes a great first impression:
Reduce loading speeds
Whether you operate from a bricks and mortar premises or are an online-only business, you should have a website to promote your brand and welcome customer inquiries. However, having a website isn’t enough to make a good first impression. Your site should be mobile-friendly, filled with regular content, supremely functional, and regularly updated too.
In addition to this, your website should have minimal loading speeds if you want to reduce your bounce rate and keep users on your webpages. Anything over 3 seconds is considered too long when it comes to loading speeds, so be sure to update your web development and reduce loading times accordingly.
Respond to incoming communication quickly
If someone attempts to contact your business, responding to their inquiry quickly is essential if you want to make a good impression. Even if you have a small staff or work alone, there are ways to streamline this process.
Using a telephone answering service will ensure incoming calls are always answered by a person, rather than an automated voicemail, for example. Similarly, when you manage postal mail and address online, you can respond to written correspondence quickly and efficiently. Furthermore, being on hand to greet customers when they visit your store or business premises ensures they can always seek one-to-one advice or assistance.
If you facilitate face-to-face inquiries or sales, you’ll need to ensure that your premises are welcoming. First and foremost, take the time to make your workplace safe. Not only will this improve the way your business looks, but it will also minimize your liability in the event of an accident.
Once you’re confident that your premises are safe, it’s time to get to work making them look welcoming and inviting. Whether you’re operating a retail store, restaurant, or a workshop, evaluate your premises from every angle with an objective viewpoint. From your parking area to your reception seating; every element builds a first impression and is worth investing in.
Care about your customers
When you care about your customers, it shows in every interaction. People are used to businesses failing to value their custom, so it makes a big impact when a company really does care. By taking the time to listen to their needs, recommending products or services that provide them genuine value, or even explaining why a product won’t work for them will gain their trust, loyalty, and respect.
Make a Great Impression
While your website and offline premises should be well-maintained, staff training is also essential if you want your business to make a good first impression. When staff are polite, professional, and willing to go the extra mile to help customers, you can be sure that your business will be remembered for the exceptional customer service it provides.
