Your Business – From the Outside In
As a business owner, the saying goes that you’re often so busy working ‘in’ the business that you don’t get chance to work ‘on’ it. But what about how your business is perceived from the outside? Examining the perspectives and experiences of others can shed a lot of light on the areas of the business that could require improvement.
Let’s start with three key groups of people associated with your business: your customers, your suppliers and your team. In this blog post, we will explore what these individuals see when they interact with your business and consider whether this is the best reflection.
Your Customers
Your customers are the lifeblood of your business. They are the ones who choose your products/services over competitors’ offerings and bring revenue into the business. When they look from the outside, what is the impression they get?
Quality and Reliability: Customers expect products and services that are of high quality and meet their needs and expectations. Things should be as seamless and easy as possible for your customers. Glitches with software can leave a poor impression, as can asking customers to jump through too many hoops in the purchase process. Ask a close friend or relative to go through the purchase process to see if there are any stumbling blocks. The easier you make it, the more likely customers will be to trust your brand and continue engaging with your business.
Excellent Customer Service: Exceptional customer service is a magnet for satisfied customers. When customers receive prompt, friendly, and effective assistance, they are more likely to be loyal to your brand. Ensure that your team is equipped with the necessary training and resources to provide customer service that goes above and beyond.
Transparency and Honesty: Customers value transparency in business. Being open and honest about pricing, policies, and any unforeseen circumstances can build trust and loyalty. By maintaining transparency, you demonstrate a commitment to fairness and ethical business practices.
Your Suppliers
Your suppliers are the partners that enable your business to operate smoothly. When suppliers look from the outside, what do they see?
Fair and Consistent Payments: Suppliers rely on timely payments to sustain their operations. Being consistent and reliable with payments will go a long way to fostering strong relationships with your suppliers.
Clear Communication: Clear and concise communication is vital when working with suppliers. Regularly updating them on changes in orders, specifications, or timelines can help ensure a smooth and efficient production process.
Your Team
Your team plays a crucial role in the success of your business. They are the ones who bring your vision to life, often being the day-to-day ‘face’ of your business during interactions with customers. Your team may be close to the day-to-day operations of your business, but this is still different from actually running it. So what do they see looking inwardly?
Culture: The way Directors conduct themselves can often create a business’ culture. This is where the saying lead from the top comes into play; a positive and supportive culture that encourages collaboration, creativity, and open communication can leave a lasting impression on your employees.
Growth Opportunities: Your team values opportunities for growth and development. They appreciate a business that provides ongoing training and development programmes, as well as opportunities to expand their skills and knowledge. By investing in your team’s professional growth, you show them that you value their contributions and are invested in their success.
Recognition and Rewards: Employees appreciate being recognised and rewarded for their efforts. Consider implementing a recognition programme that celebrates individual and team achievements. This not only boosts morale but also encourages them to continue delivering exceptional results.
By understanding the perspectives of your team, customers, and suppliers you can shape how your business is perceived from the outside. By focusing on fostering a positive culture, delivering exceptional products and services, and maintaining strong relationships, you can create a business that leaves a lasting positive impression on all who encounter it.
Leave a Reply