BUSINESS OWNERS – HOW TO PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD

Present the Right Physical Image

• Neat, wrinkle-free clothes
• Exceptional personal hygiene
• Breath mints – NOT chewing gum
• Shined shoes
• DON’T flirt or wear inappropriate or revealing clothing – it undermines credibility, or may open one to ridicule
• Take a few extra minutes every day to look at yourself and evaluate your own personal image – “Would I do business with someone who presents the image that I see in the mirror?”

Body Language Speaks Volumes

• Posture – erect; shoulders back; chest out; stomach in
• Always speak clearly and with confidence, emotion and vitality
• Remember – SMILE!
• Maintain eye contact
• Firm handshake – but don’t cripple your companion
• DON’T “Buy-Back the Sale” by talking too much – LISTEN to the other person

Present the Right Emotional Image

• Promptness – if you’re not early, your late
• Be respectful of the other person’s time
• Always be respectful and courteous to all (you never know who’s watching – if you’d be ashamed for your mom to see or hear you, then don’t do or say it)

Project a Positive Business Image

• Keep the office, reception area and your desk neat and clean – it demonstrates logical thinking
• Customer service and consideration is your number one concern – have a courteous and knowledgeable staff
• Dress code for yourself and your staff – you must set the bar for neatness and courtesy – lead by example
• Return phone calls/e-mails promptly
• Proofread and maintain a high quality of your business writing
• ALWAYS do what you promise to do

Key Points to Consider In Your Own Office:

• Stop and listen/observe your staff’s interaction with clients or customers
• Consider engaging a “Secret Shopper” to report back to you re: their visit
• Evaluate your own office as soon as you walk in the door – “What do I like about this office?” or more importantly, “What do I NOT like about this office?” – then do something about it!
• Ask your customers – “What do you like (or not like) about my office?” or “In what way can I improve my ability to best serve your needs?”

ROBERT F. SCHILLBERG, JR., is a member of EMACC and is an attorney licensed in New Jersey and New York, with an office in Red Bank, New Jersey, practicing primarily in the areas of business and corporate law, civil litigation, municipal court, and residential/commercial real estate