|
|
|
|||||
|
specialists in enhancement and management of human performance |
||||||
|
|
||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
Is business not as hot as you'd like? Do you notice customers being careful with their money and not spending as much? You could be observing a reflection of the current economy. But other factors effect customer spending. How the public perceives you, your business, your products or services -- that's vital to your success. When they feel that your products or services are valuable, better than the competition's, or give them that "something extra" that they want, they flock to your door. Your business thrives! What creates a positive impression in the public's mind and how do you as a business owner or manager influence that? In the "image" business, the first perception to deal with is your own. How do you view of the climate of your "market"? Is it that things hard or slow? Do you think it's difficult to move your product right now? Are you feeling uncertain about what's coming up in the next few months? It's easy for others to "see" your perspective. What I mean is that when a business is successful (or projects that image), they're visible. They do this through advertising, being a presence at different events -- either sponsoring them or participating in them -- etc. There's a confidence that's apparent when a business is doing well; they project a positive image to the public. Conversely, if a business isn't doing so well, it's less visible -- there's less advertising, less risk taking, less stretching into new areas for business. And that affects the public's judgment of how well it's doing! To paraphrase a quote, Life at any time can be either difficult or easy. It all depends on how you adjust to it that counts. And in the adjusting, that's where you create those important perceptions that the public watches and responds to. Recently there was a fire, which completely destroyed a local store's building. The next day there was an ad in the paper saying "We're not gone. We WILL rebuild and be back soon!" And you can bet that they will, and they'll have the public's support when they do. Why? Not just out of sympathy. Because they reacted quickly, placed that ad and were so positive and up, they created an "image" one of continuity and stability -- in the face of disaster! Remember, it's not what happens, it's how you react to what happens that counts. Stop and think for a moment. What two actions can you take within the next 24-48 hours to begin creating a positive perception of you / your business? How about designing a simple ad, a flyer, or a "special offer" that will catch the public's eye (and interest) right away. Or what about following up on an opportunity to create or cosponsor an event that will get your name out there? Maybe you can meet with a colleague to brainstorm and come up with an action plan that will create something new and exciting -- a new avenue to pursue. Going into new territory, following new ideas has its risks, but, in the end, the benefits can really pay off! Whatever it is, do it! The only thing that waiting does is waste time. It accomplishes nothing. The image or perception you create today can mean lots of new business tomorrow! So what are you waiting for? (NOTE: Allies Consulting offers Customer Service and Communications Skills programs that can meet or exceed your expectations; they are designed to deliver real results. They also leverage our other programs, magnifying your ROI!)
|
POBox 9635