Image is everything. The way in which we carry ourselves, comb our hair, walk, talk and conduct our business affairs counts to the other party. It is said that people form an opinion of an individual in two seconds. This is a very quick space of time, and our image is shaped by all our experiences and our thought patterns. This is also true in the business world. Organizations have their own business, their own organizational culture, and above all else their own style of conducting business. It is the people and employees who make up the image of any organization.
Each employee will have an image , but also in small business, it is the individual who is running the show that counts. this person to succeed in business, will have to look capable and trustworthy to others. He/She will have to be very reliable, and show that he/she can get the job done. This shall be passed on by word of mouth to others, and this is generally how small businesses grow. The owner of the business will have to show customers that he/she is a honest man/woman. He/She will have to take ethical factors into account when doing a job. This will strengthen his/her image , especially if this business is based in a small town or village. The businessman/woman will have to speak assertively to customers and employees, and also carry him/herself with dignity. Some family businesses require the owners to be very family orientated, and this has to be kept up. The businessman/woman will have to try to keep his private/personal life a secret from the public as any scandal will be blown out of proportion by the media, and a lot of unnecessary gossiping will be going on.
The self-image of a businessman can make or break him. It can lead to the downfall of his/her business, and also destroy him/her. A good image is therefore required in the world of business, and the businessman will have to make certain that he/she has all what it takes in order to maintain a good self-image. The businessman must also give an impression to the community that he/she is passionate about what he/she does, and takes an interest in the community. Donating money for charity, and helping with community projects will project the businessman in good light, and maintain his/her good image.
Good image is also necassary in the world of investors. investors will invest in a person who has good self-image. This may be the biggest name in business, and therefore it is always importnat to have a good self image. Complaints will also have to addressed by the business man. This can lower the image, and these things need to be dealt with tactfully.