If you want to run a successful business and be the expert in your field, you need to be professional and act like one. You need a business presence.
Here are my Top 5 tips to be seen as the expert in your field.
Make sure you have the best knowledge about your field as well as how to run a professional business. Never stop learning and up-grading your skills. I can guarantee that anyone who is the best in their profession continues their education in all aspects of business.
1. Introduce yourself and your business with confidence.
2. Be matter-of-fact about your fees.
3.
Practise in the mirror your answer to ‘What do you do?””
“Hi, I’m Alison. I help women start and grow their small businesses. My business is called Mum’s Business Kickstart. I specialise in getting women to achieve results and make a profit in their business.”
When you are speaking to a potential client and they ask about your fees, don’t break into a cold sweat and answer with a shaky voice. This creates uncertainty and resistance. Instead, state your fees confidently and let them make the decision. Remember, you are the professional in your field and you should be compensated as such.
4.
You cannot build a successful, professional business alone. You need to have a strong network of like-minded people around you. They are encouraging you, referring and recommending you to others and helping you to uncover your next big idea. If you have no idea where to look, or where to get this support, check out Real Entrepreneur Mums.
5.
Quick question. When you want to buy a product or use a service, what’s one of the first things you do? You check out the websites and/or their social media links. No matter what business you own, if you are serious about success, you need to have an on-line presence. Make it professional without losing your natural flare and style. Make sure it answers the questions customers would ask about you and your service. Demonstrate you are THE business to talk to for expert advice.
If you are still ‘umming’ and ‘ahhing’ about your business, you are driving your customers away. Each of us is looking for certainty when we make a decision ¬ especially if we are looking to buy something or hire someone. It doesn’t matter if it’s a vacuum cleaner or an accountant, we want to be sure that we are getting the best value or the best knowledge, for our money. And we can only get that, if you believe in yourself.