Wise Wednesdays - Are you making it easy to do business with?

I received a business card once that looked like it was done on a computer with only a telephone number on it. No address.

I phoned them and wasn’t sure if it was the right business because their voicemail said “you’ve reached 416.333.3333 leave a message”. When they finally returned my call (2 days late )they sounded like they were calling to pay a traffic ticket not serve a customer.

I asked if they could fill an order that I needed in a week. They said they could fill the order but it would take 2 weeks. No attempt to work around my request. Not even a mention to rush my order with a surcharge. They only took cash and it had to be during business hours.

They never got my business.

Are you making it easy to do business with?

Here are some tips:

- A voice mail that’s clear. Please state the name of the business and your name. No boring explanations or long-winded speeches are necessary. Some businesses state that will get back to you in 24 hours, which can be a nice touch.

A signature in all you emails with you business name and relevant contact info.

A business card (nothing home made) on hard stock with a mailing address (no P.O. box number).

A clear system that tells clients what you will do, when and what they need to do to start the process.

A flexibile payment option -- the more options the better – paypal, visa, cheque. State terms up front – deposits, late payment charges etc.

People enjoy doing business with people who are clear and responsive. Make sure you do the same.

Cheers,

Dominik