By Shelley Lowery
There are many types of professionals on the Internet.
Business consultants, writers, web designers, software developers,
the list goes on and on. What does it take to be considered
a professional? Well, according to the definition from Webster's
dictionary, a professional is "Engaged in, or worthy
of the standards of, a profession."
Does this definition mean that if you are engaged in a
profession you are automatically considered a "professional?"
Of course not. Creating a professional image entails a great
deal of time and effort. Not only should you have a great
deal of knowledge and experience in your chosen field, but
you must conduct your business in a professional manner.
Developing a professional image on the Internet will include
all aspects of your business.
• Attitude
• Courtesy
• Honesty
• Product
• Customer Service
• Technical Support
• Refunds
• Web Site
• Fellow Business Owners
Attitude
Your attitude is one of the most important aspects of developing
your professional image. It can make or break you. The way
you deal with your peers, customers, questions, complaints,
requests or compliments will all reflect upon your professionalism.
Courtesy
Let your customers know how much they're appreciated. Be
well mannered, respectful and warm. Always remember to say
please, thank you and you're welcome.
Honesty
Never be dishonest with or mislead your customers. It will
eventually catch up with you. Tell it like it is. You have
to earn your customer's trust to create long term relationships.
Product
Always over-deliver in all aspects of your business. If
you over-inflate the perceived value of your product, your
customers will be disappointed and probably not buy from
you in the future.
Customer Service
When dealing with your customers, go above and beyond the
expected. Listen to your customers and validate their feelings.
Just because you know and understand something, don't assume
they do.
Technical Support
Poor technical support is probably one of the biggest complaints
from unsatisfied customers. Make yourself completely available
to assist your customers. Answer their emails and return
their phone calls as quickly as possible. Work with them
until you have a satisfactory solution.
Refunds
Always happily refund your customers money if they aren't
satisfied. Don't argue the issue or write nasty messages.
Be courteous, apologetic, and ask your customers why they
weren't satisfied. Remember... The customer is always right,
even if you feel they're wrong.
Web Site
Your web site is a direct reflection of you and your business.
It should look professional in design, contain your complete
contact information, including your phone number, provide
complete product information and an easy ordering process.
Fellow Business Owners
Creating your professional image on the Internet not only
includes your business and customers, but it also includes
being respectful to fellow business owners. If someone requests
a link exchange or any kind of business promotional exchange,
answer their email. That's considered a professional courtesy.
Whether you're interested in their proposal or not, you
should at least acknowledge their request. Failure to do
so is not only considered rude, but unprofessional.
Always strive to do-the-best-you-can-do and everything
else will fall into place.
Copyright © Shelley Lowery
About the Author:
Shelley Lowery is the author of the acclaimed web design
course, Web Design Mastery. http://www.webdesignmastery.com
And, Ebook Starter - Give Your Ebooks the look and feel
of a REAL book. http://www.ebookstarter.com Visit Web-Source.net
to sign up for a complimentary subscription to Etips and
receive a copy of the acclaimed ebook, "Killer Internet
Marketing Strategies." http://www.web-source.net