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Your business’ reputation is a valuable asset. Having a positive reputation is hugely beneficial to companies and plays a vital role in the business’ long term success. Having a strong reputation creates a magnetic effect and means that customers want to use your products, and suppliers want to work with you. In contrast, having a business with a bad reputation can have severe implications for your business’ profitability and future.
When running a company it is essential to remember that your business’ reputation is fragile. There are many reasons that companies suffer reputational damage, so being mindful of your actions and guarding your reputation closely is a must. If you are hoping to improve the reputation of your company, you may want to focus your attention on the following three areas, each of which plays a vital role in helping your business’ reputation to thrive:
Deliver Excellent Customer Service
Customer service plays a significant role in your business’ reputation. Nowadays, poor customer service can cause even more damage to your business than ever before. Social media and the various rating websites available mean that unfavorable reviews can easily be left by disgruntled customers and impact your reputation. Most consumers check online reviews before making a purchase decision, so if your business has low ratings, it can have a severe impact on your ability to attract new customers.
To avoid unfavorable ratings, your business needs to offer exemplary customer service. Ensuring that your staff members are well-trained will help them to deliver a high-quality service to your customers. Equipping your employees with the resources they need to provide that high level of service is also crucial, such as a customer relationship management system (CRM) that helps them deliver a seamless service.
Benefit the Wider Community
While customer service plays a pivotal role in laying the foundations of excellent customer service, it is further enhanced by your company’s interaction with the broader community. Being charitable and supportive of good causes is a perfect way to build your reputation while doing lots of good at the same time. There are many ways that you can give back to society and use your business’ success to benefit others. You may decide to benefit the up and coming talent from your industry; which is what Alan Miller with Genesis Diagnostics did while working for Artisan Fabrics. Helping newcomers to the industry to develop their careers is a worthwhile cause and a great way to invest in future talent and launch the careers of young people.
Commit to Being Responsible
Running your organization in a transparent way is crucial to protect your reputation. Customers expect companies to operate ethically, and the emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly business practices continues to grow. Running your business to high ethical standards and with a focus on being green is vital to protecting your reputation. Focusing on issues such as fair trade and reducing your business’ impact on the environment will help to both protect and improve your company’s reputation.