When you work for someone else, your employer provides you with a computer, a phone, an email address, and business cards. The company has a logo, a website, and procedures established to get the work done.
But … when you work for yourself, you start with none of that. It’s up to you to provide these things for yourself. And even though many solo professionals have come from a corporate past, they don’t bring many of these things into their own businesses.
I think that’s a mistake.
Many solo professionals assume that because they are small, they’re under the radar and can get by without pulling together the essential components of their business. But, whether you’re just starting out or already established, here are five things that let the world know that you’re a professional and that you mean business!
1. Get a professional business card. Don’t get a free card from Vista Print; have one designed by a professional with up-to-date information and nice card stock. (I have received cards where I can feel the perforations along the edge, which is a clear sign they were printed from a home printer). When you give someone your card, it makes an impression – an investment in a professional-looking card will pay off.
2. Get a real email address. I don’t mean using Gmail, AOL, Yahoo!, or Hotmail. If you have a registered domain (www.YourCompany.com), it’s just a few more steps to use it for email (jane@yourcompany.com). It’s worth a little extra effort to demonstrate that you’re serious. Please leave nameofmycompany@gmail.com behind!
3. Get a professional headshot. This should be retaken every couple of years and used on your website, LinkedIn profile, bio, etc. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but a pro should do it in a professional setting.
4. Get a consistent look. Presentations, brochures, online materials, etc. Anything you show to clients, prospects, and others should feel consistent instead of reflecting a new expression of creativity in each piece. Use consistent fonts and colors, as well as consistent wording in the way you describe who you are and what you do. Branding your business is key to helping you stand out in the market and establishing a unique identity that clients can recognize and remember.
5. Don’t skimp on your tools. Make sure you have what you need to run your business well, including a good computer, a reliable printer, and a dedicated place to work without background/home noises. Invest in the software you need to do your work and maintain your business on the back end too.
All five of these things are easy to implement and relatively inexpensive. By doing them, you will not only give the world a better impression but also feel like a million bucks!