Month: August 2017

From an original article by Jennifer Post, Business News Daily Contributor

Customer service has never been more important than it is today. It is so easy for customers to share their opinion, positive or negative, with others. Keeping your customers satisfied and coming back is a challenge. Avoiding these common customer service mistakes can help:

• Over-automation – Just because it can be automated doesn’t mean it should be. Balance cost savings with the opportunity to provide personal service.
• Failing to listen – Don’t assume, listen.
• Being reactive instead of proactive – Seek improvement and avoid complacency.
• Undervaluing customer service staff – Be sure to reward staff for providing great service.
• Not giving customers what they want – Deliver quick, efficient and respectful solutions, even if it is not ideal.

For a more in-depth look at the importance of providing exceptional customer service, read the full article.

From an original article by Karen Peacock, America’s SBDC

As a small business owner, it’s easy to feel isolated at times. Who do you turn to with questions about business challenges? Just because you’re a leader doesn’t mean you have all of the answers. Don’t be afraid to ask others for help and broaden your network. A recent study found that 41 percent of small business owners feel lonely in their work life. That same survey found that 70 percent of small business owners say networking with other business owners is important.

It’s possible that, at the moment, you may not have a specific question. It’s still beneficial to listen to how others solved challenges. Surround yourself with people you can learn from, whether you know them well or not. Find local organizations that are made up of like-minded professionals who can answer questions or provide helpful contacts – like America’s nationwide network of Small Business Development Centers (SBDC). It’s a great way to learn something new, connect with others, and strengthen your business know-how.

For more information on finding answers and building your business, read the full article.

From an original article by Nick Candito, Small Biz Daily

You’d be surprised how many companies still use paper processes. According to The Association for Information and Image Management (AIIM), 92 percent of companies say that removing paper processes is a constant objective.

If your business has yet to make the change, here are five reasons to do so as soon as possible:

Information security – Digital documents can be protected in ways paper documents can’t, such as remotely via the cloud or an off-site hard drive.

Accessibility – Find your document in a few clicks instead of flipping through binders or digging through a desk.

Adherence – Collaboration is easier when everyone can access essential documents.

Real-time visibility – Keep tasks on track and quickly identify problems.

Optimized performance – When you improve collaboration, security, adherence, and visibility, your customers will naturally benefit from it. And when they benefit, your bottom line benefits.

For a more in-depth look at the benefits of going paperless, read the full article.

From an original article by Jenna Cyprus, Small Biz Daily

If your small business is profitable enough to have a substantial amount of money left over after everyone has been paid, what should you do with your money? Invest it. Doing so can help reduce overhead costs and increase profitability, paving the way for future success. But are what are those “wise investments” that accomplish those goals? Here are just a few:

• Business improvements – Most businesses have some areas in need of improvement, whether it be the business strategy or the physical place of business. Invest in something that will lead to future growth. For example, if you’re looking to draw more customers into your business, invest in a marquis system or large chalkboard that can showcase special promotions within your store.
• A Better Website – Whether you are an online store or a brick-and-mortar business, you can benefit from a more robust website design. Often, both current and potential customers will visit a business’s website to get a sense of what you have to offer. Website designs can become outdated and lose their appeal. If you run an exciting business, make sure you have an exciting website.
• Employees – Investing in the “face” of your business is crucial. They are the ones interacting with customers. Happy, satisfied employees lead to happy, satisfied customers, which is important for repeat business. Explore unique perks or benefits you can offer your employees to separate you from the competition. With a healthy economy, workers have more choices now than they did in the past.

To learn more about investments that can help your business grow, click here.