It has never been easier to start a business in the US than it is now. The problem is that some people just get started without really know much about running a business and they fail to do the research they should. The first impression of your brand counts a great deal, and there is no second attempt at a first impression. People will either like it or move on to a competitor, and you have to make sure that it is your brand they choose if you do not want your business to fail in the first few months.
Have A Good Website
It does not matter whether your new venture is an Internet business or not. It is vital to have an online presence. Regardless of how consumers hear about your products they will look for a website to find out more if they are interested.
It does not have to have many pages to it, and you should never say a new page is under construction. Just add it when it is finished, as under construction looks unprofessional.
A business website needs to be appealing to anyone that views it, and it has to be responsive to all devices. It should be a very user-friendly website whether they are viewing on a 20-inch or 5-inch screen.
Do Not Ignore Social Media
Even multinational companies have social media pages these days, and you should not ignore it either. It is the way some people will try to find your brand and is often where they will look for recommendations. You do not need to spend hours on each and every social media platform. Find out where most of your customers are and concentrate on that one.
Use The Right Set Up
There are several ways a business can be legally set up in the US. You could be a sole trader, in a partnership or perhaps form an LLC. It really depends who your customers are as to which is the best for you.
For instance, if your customers are all other businesses and you are extending them credit, an LLC is the best option. The rules are stricter when it comes to the legal and tax side of matters, but as long as you are aware of the LLC filing requirements that is not a problem. If you aren’t sure, a business lawyer can help you.
As well as protecting your personal assets if the business does not work, being an LLC can give a more professional impression when all your customers are other tradespeople. Just remember that the regulations differ from state to state, and you should get professional advice about the state you are in.
Open A Business Email
It does not look professional for a business to use an email address that ends in Gmail.com or something just as generic. Choose something that matches the link to your website or your company name. This will look much better to any prospective customers. You may have to pay a small amount to use a new email like this, but the benefits will more than outweigh any cost.
Have A Dedicated Phone Line
Whether you use a mobile number or a landline, you should have a phone line that is dedicated to your business. You and any staff will know that the number needs to be answered in a professional manner, and this looks much more impressive to your customers.
It is even possible now to add a second number to your cell phone so that you will not have the expense of a separate phone if you do not want one, and it only costs a few dollars each month.
It also has the advantage of making it easier for you to only take calls on it in business hours.
Use A Business Address
You could be running your business from home, but your customers do not need to know that. A business address will make you look more professional, and will stop people turning up at your door. You do not need to have business premises to do this, as you can rent a business address for a small monthly payment.
Build The Trust
The most successful businesses have won the trust of their customers, and those customers stay loyal to them. Building trust is a huge part of making any business successful, and the more professional your brand looks the easier it will be to build the trust you need.
Repeat business can be crucial for any business, and if you always project yourself and act in a [professional manner, that will happen automatically.
