The Top 10 Ways to Promote Your Business

Sometimes it's the seemingly little things in business that can make the difference between building a stellar award-winning reputation or creating a tarnished one. While several may seem simplistic, these top 10 tips will go a long way to developing a strong image that will help grow your business and establish you as a leader in your field and your community.

1. Live up to Your Promises

So many businesses tout service as a valuable asset of their organization and then fail to deliver. The word itself has now become a hackneyed, throw-away term that most people don't even hear when you say it or read when you put it in your promotional literature.

You truly need to do it. If you can't deliver on time (and the circumstances are clearly beyond your control), then call your client and tell him or her. Be honest and keep him or her in the loop. Your client will appreciate your honesty and can be better prepared in the process. He or she will respect your integrity.

Don't let your client be surprised with a no-show, or you can just forget about any future business.

2. Return Phone Calls

This may seem like a minor thing, but it's a biggie. Is it something in the air or water of Southwest Florida that disables people from returning telephone calls? It seems like the contagious plague of the Gulf Coast.

Ignoring a call can be so pervasive that everyone does it. Don't! You never know why a person may be calling, and the one caller you neglect could have led to the million-dollar sale.

In a similar category are RSVPs. If you're honored with an invitation -- even if it's to see a sumo wrestling event at midnight in Chokoloskee -- at least be courteous enough to respond to the RSVP.

3. Get Out There

Be visible. Attend seminars, luncheons, receptions, and dinners. Get involved in community activities that might open the door for you to meet someone who might lead to a new client. Charity events offer particular opportunities to get involved and to meet movers and shakers. The bottom line is: network, network, network.

4. Remember Names

When you're out there networking, try to develop a knack for remembering names. People are extremely impressed and flattered when you call them by name after a brief meeting.

When you meet someone, say his or her name aloud at the introduction. Then repeat it to yourself three or four times. Make eye contact. Be personable and friendly.

5. Listen

Whether listening to the needs of an existing customer or listening in a networking situation, this tip is critical to picking up cues for improvement and/or expansion. Pay attention.

You may hear a customer voicing needs that could lead to additional orders, or you may hear an opening to cultivate a new customer. Unfortunately most people are too busy talking and haven't acquired the art of listening. It's an important talent for success!

Being a good listener will also give you a sensitivity to know what's appropriate and what's not.

6. Send Notes

Sending follow-up notes to stay in touch with potential (or existing) clients is a classy way to keep the lines of communication open.

Either let the individual know you enjoyed meeting him or her and would welcome the opportunity to get together again, or pass along an article or tidbit of information that might be useful based on a conversation you may have had with the person. It's a good way to be remembered. Then when you call to ask for the sale, the person will feel more connected to you and will be more inclined to respond positively.

7. Know Your Stuff

Sometimes the obvious gets overlooked. It's important to stay informed about the latest trends and developments in your industry and your area. Try to stay abreast of who is doing what, where and when. It will help you stay a step ahead of the competition and provide a confidence level whereby your customers know you are on top of things.

8. Review Your Contact List

Periodically go through your database or Rolodex and send notes to clients (or potential clients) who you haven't chatted with in awhile. Perhaps they've just had a promotion, or it's a birthday or other special occasion. Use whatever excuse you can to put your name in front of them.

9. Speak Out

Get on the speaker's circuit and let groups know that you are available to address clubs, civic or charitable organizations. Get known, and keep expanding your horizons and your visibility.

10. Recognize the Value of Your Reputation

Often people hear of you before they meet you. Accept the importance of how you interact with people. Be open and honest. Be thorough and efficient. Most of all, be professional at all times.