by Natalia Jones

Created on: January 25, 2010

Credibility is a strong currency in the business world. When a product or a brand is popular with customers others assume that it must be of a good quality. This type of recognition is not reserved for the brand giants. Any small business can build up credibility and benefit from the goodwill that follows, but it takes time and dedication.

Check out the following tips for building credibility as a small business.

Pay Attention to Your Personal Image

When you are operating a small business, chances are your personal image will be directly connected with your company brand. If you have a good personal track record and you exude a positive image this can help your business to experience extreme growth. Always remember that you are your business, so you must be ever mindful of your conduct especially if you live among your target market. People tend to do business with those that they like, so make an effort to build relationships or at least to be polite and helpful to those around you.

Provide Professional Customer Service

Of course, a small company generates a lot of new business because of referrals or from repeat customers. This is why delivering exceptional customer service is key to increasing your revenue. Even if your company is currently a monopoly it pays to be good to your customers because it may not be this way forever. Others may see your poor service delivery as an opportunity to enter the market and win your customers by excelling where you have failed.

Build a Portfolio of Previous Work

If you can present customers that are unfamiliar with your work with a sample of previously completed jobs it can speak volumes about your level of service and professionalism. It is important to keep track of the jobs that you do and work conscientiously at compiling a portfolio to show off your past work. Be sure to ask your satisfied customers for a quote to enter in your records as well. These can be used on advertising materials or your website.

Let Your Voice Be Heard

Small business can gain a good edge on the competition and make their mark even amidst bigger players by getting their voice out for the target audience to hear or read. Try to get on morning radio programs as a guest to speak about issues relevant to your field, or offer to write a series of expert articles for your local newspaper. When customers view you as the master your credibility will skyrocket.

Small businesses can increase their credibility without spending a lot of money. All they need to do is pay attention to what impacts their reputation and consistently work on these areas. 

Learn more about this author, Natalia Jones.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.