The beauty of starting a small business lies in its accessibility—almost anyone can embark on this journey. In the United States alone, there are 30.7 million small businesses, representing 99.9% of all businesses. However, with such a vast number of small enterprises, distinguishing yours can be challenging. The key to standing out is to present your business as professional and well-established.
Here are five tips to help you achieve that:
Get a Logo (and Use It Everywhere)
Most people are better at recognizing corporate logos than they are at recalling the names of local wildlife. Without a logo, customers and potential clients won’t have a visual symbol to remember your business by. So, invest in a logo and make sure to display it everywhere—on your invoices, coffee mugs, and any other materials you use. If you’re interested in creating your own logo but lack graphic design skills, tools like Canva can be a great starting point. They offer a variety of logo templates and an easy-to-use platform that suits most small business needs. Alternatively, if you prefer hiring a professional, platforms like Fiverr and Upwork are excellent for connecting with freelance graphic designers from around the world. You’ll find a designer who matches your needs and budget. Secure a logo that truly represents your company!
Maintain a social media presence
Maintaining a social media presence is essential for any business today. Research from Schedule shows that 72% of customers are more likely to buy from a business they follow on social media. However, with the multitude of social media platforms available, managing them all can be overwhelming. Our advice is to focus on the platforms that best suit your business. While Facebook remains a dominant choice for business engagement, consider complementing it with one or two other platforms based on your needs. For visually showcasing products, Instagram is a great option. If you need to provide real-time updates and engage in quick interactions, Twitter is ideal. Tailor your social media strategy to the platforms that align with your business goals and audience preferences.
Create a simple website
Creating a simple website is a crucial step for any small business. Despite the growing emphasis on online presence, around 40% of small businesses still lack a website, potentially missing out on valuable customers who turn to competitors. Building a website has never been easier or more affordable. You don’t need to develop a complex platform—just a basic one or two-page site that showcases your products, services, and pricing will suffice. Ensure that your website is visible in search engine results so potential customers can find you. Don’t forget to include a contact link so visitors can easily reach out to you. This straightforward approach can significantly enhance your business’s visibility and accessibility.
Use a custom email domain
Using a custom email domain, like “info@invoiceus.com,” versus a generic one, such as “info@invoiceus.com,” adds a significant touch of professionalism to your small business. This seemingly small adjustment can make your business appear more established and reliable, which can greatly impact customer perception. A custom email not only enhances professionalism but also makes your email address easier for customers to remember and helps your messages stand out in their inbox.
Make your invoices stand out
Ensure your invoices make a strong impression by using tools like Invoice Home. Customize your invoices, receipts, and quotes with your logo and signature, so your clients immediately recognize who they’re from. With a variety of templates available, you can make your documents stand out. Plus, streamline payment by including payment links, making it easier for your customers to settle their invoices quickly and efficiently.
Creating a professional image for your small business is essential for standing out in a crowded market. By following these tips, you can build credibility and ensure that customers view your business as reliable and trustworthy.
