| FOUR
WAYS TO IMPROVE YOUR BUSINESS
In the heat of battle,
we often neglect to monitor business basics that can mean the difference
between success and failure. Here are four suggestions that can contribute
mightily to your bottom line:
1. GET CHECKS IN FASTER.
Few business owners realize
that their action or inaction has a major effect on how long it takes to
receive payments. Be sure to send invoices immediately. Follow up with
customers as soon as they receive shipments and invoices. A mistake in
an order or an invoice should be corrected immediately so payment will
not be held up. If a payment is late, call the customer and determine a
specific payment date.
2. BROADCAST WHAT YOU
DO WELL.
What are the things that
give your company a competitive edge? Whatever your competitive advantages
are — quality, price, service, selection — broadcast them to customers
and potential customers. Present a strong image of why people should do
business with you. Use an effective marketing mix that includes space advertising,
product literature, direct mail, public relations, in-store displays and
trade/consumer shows to convey your message.
3. ASK CUSTOMERS HOW YOU’RE
DOING?
Keep in touch with customers
and don’t be afraid to ask them what they like and dislike about the way
you do business. In-store customer survey forms are an efficient way to
obtain feedback. If a customer is dissatisfied with something, bend over
backwards to correct it. On the other hand, when a customer is satisfied,
ask him/her to help “spread the word”.
4. ESTABLISH OPEN LINES
OF COMMUNICATION WITH YOUR EMPLOYEES.
Employees cannot perform
well if they don’t know what’s expected of them. Include employees in decision-making
whenever possible. Make sure employees understand both the short-range
and long-range goals of the company.
END
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