Your web site and how you represent yourself

[BUTTER]

It's January, and I have set some time aside in my schedule this month to reflect on my business and potentially make some changes in how I represent myself (website, company name, image, etc.) My current website needs to be updated, but you can see it at http://IntegrityDesignBuild.com

Like (I think) many of you on this site, I am a small scale professional, with just one employee, though I also hire other skilled hands when necessary.  I primarily work as a finish carpenter and installer as a sub, with occasional homeowner clients.

I would like to expand my client base to include more homeowner clients as well. (Of course, this also means that the work will end up incorporating more non-woodworking scope.)

I'm curious how others on this site in similar positions present yourself to clients, and if any of you have had successful strategies for reaching out to new clients besides the old word of mouth?

Also, at a such a small scale, do you represent your business as "you," or have you created a distinct company identity that is a little less personal?

 

[Jalvis]

This is a great topic that can easily be discussed continuously. 

Unlike the typical business model I've decided to brand myself rather than create a "brand."  This method is old school but to me its important since service is nearly lost across the board.  This doesn't mean you aren't creating a brand it just means you are the forefather.  For me its all about "personal" relationships....although your business will grow differently under this model....typically slower but with a loyal strong base. 

As you stated word of mouth is the foundation to your next client.  The best method is to use you current clientele rather than search for new.  For example make excuses to talk with a past client.  Every Christmas I give Flower Arrangements and a Christmas card which I deliver.  Naturally we end talking and everyone is thrilled to see someone who cares.  Another benefit is that the arrangement ends up being a center piece on the table during the holidays and unavoidably becomes a conversation. 

You can use any number of reasons to talk with a client....birthdays, holidays, new services, survey, new marketing material......you make the excuse and then do it.  Simply get your current client base working for you.  Another essential tool that has all but been lost is to gift someone who refers a client.  Don't just say thank you when there referral becomes a job....buy them dinner via gift card and say thank you.  I even use the gift card as a marketing tool.  I only give gift cards to locally owned restaurants that I go to and I let the owner know that I'm using his business to say thank you to my customers.  Guess what happens when that business owner needs work?

I can go on for ever!....But in the end its about relationships to me so thats where I start and end. 

 

[woodguy7]

Some good advise there Jalvis