Creating Your Professional
Image on the Internet
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 2000. All Rights Reserved
About the Author:
Shelley Lowery is the author of several successful ebooks including Web Design Mastery -
An in-depth guide to professional web design. Ebook Starter - A Complete Ebook Design Kit,
and eZines: A Complete Guide to Publishing for Profit. Subscribe to Etips and receive a
free copy of her highly acclaimed ebook, "Killer Internet Marketing Strategies."
http://www.web-source.net
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