Do you know it takes two to three seconds for people to gain an impression of you or your business? And just as it is with people, it is important to form a strong first impression with your potential clients and customers.

Businesses and brands are just like people in this digital world. Every business owner is responsible for creating an impression not just for themselves, but for their businesses. A first bad impression would be difficult to undo, and sets the tone for future business dealings. Here are the primary ways to ensure your business is perceived well.

Website

A website is an important part of your business. It has to resonate with your branding, mission and vision. Your website is often the first impression you will make digitally. Many potential customers search online for information prior to buying a product or sealing a deal. Just as it is important for us to make a strong first impression on people, your site should look professional; provide enough information for customers or potential partners to know and reach you; as well as being intuitive and uncluttered.

Social media

Once you are equipped with a well-designed website that communicates your business, the next step is to follow through with social media. Before hastily making the move to social media or a particular social media platform, consider these things: What is the goal of creating this new asset? How often will I update it? What will I update it with? Am I willing to invest the time to build it? Different social media platforms also have different features, so do take the time to find out what each offers. Focus on ensuring the content you are posting is of high value and is able to engage your audience.

Employees as brand ambassadors

A brand ambassador is defined as someone who is meant to embody the corporate identity in appearance, demeanour, values and ethics. It is important that every employee in your organisation carries the vision, mission and values. Many multinational firms invest in this belief that employees represent the brand. When employees represent the company and meet clients, they are promoting products or services while personifying the corporate identity.  You may want to also take active steps to empower employees to represent the company. For example, give them social media training on using various social media channels, with guidelines on sharing.

Networking and meetings

At networking events, your brand ambassador training of your employees will come in handy to create that great first impression of them and the company. Here are few guidelines on creating a good impression at meetings:

• Be prepared for the meeting.
• Find out who the attendees are.
• Be punctual.
• Dress smartly.
• A firm handshake.

In networking sessions and events, your employees will receive many new name cards, and using a helpful business contact management software such as  Sansan will help you quickly reap the rewards of regular meetings and networking sessions, growing your company’s database efficiently and in an organised manner.