One of the biggest challenges that small business owners face is trying to relay a professional image to their customers and prospects. With larger organizations and corporations cornering the market in just about every industry, competing can be tough. The only way to truly do so is to present to the public that you are able to deliver the same service and quality as that of your larger counterparts. So, how can you accomplish this if you’re just a small mom and pop operation? Easy. Here are 5 simple ways you can make your small business shine like the big guys.

Get a Dynamic Website

These days if you don’t have a website for your business, you’re most certainly missing out. But it’s not enough to simply throw a webpage up. Research has shown that it takes just 3 seconds for a web visitor to decide whether to stay on a page or leave. That means in order for your website to truly be effective, it has to immediately captivate and draw people in. It should be dynamic, easy to navigate, interactive and comprehensive. It should also include a blog that is updated frequently with quality content. Oh, and unless you have a background in web development and design, don’t try to do it yourself – hire a professional.

Communicate

If you want customers, prospects, vendors, partners and potential investors to view your business as professional, you have to communicate professionally, all the time. Make sure emails include your business signature, including your website URL, watch your spelling and grammar, and avoid the use of abbreviations, industry lingo or anything else that could come across as unprofessional. A business phone system that includes a toll free number, robust phone trees and other advanced features is also an excellent way to show everyone that you’re a real, solid business that can compete with anyone.

Demonstrate that You Are Real

If you want customers and prospects to view your business as more than just a fly-by-night operation, show them that you are real. A great way to do this is by including other members of your team on emails. You can even mention that you’re cc’ing so-and-so to point it out to the recipient. What this does is demonstrate that your business is made up of a team of qualified professionals, and it’s not just a one man show.

Leverage Technology

There are plenty of quality technology products on the market that can help you beef up your business and give it a more professional feel. And more importantly, most of them won’t break the bank. Use a professional web hosting service, utilize an email or newsletter program, or employ an electronic signature software. The more state-of-the-art technology you use, the more of a streamlined, professional image your business will present.

Provide Exceptional Follow-Up

What many small businesses do to their own detriment is drop the ball once they’ve landed a customer. If you make it a point to deliver superior service after the sale, you’ll impress your customers and increase the chances of gaining referrals. This can be more challenging to a small business vs. a larger organization, just because of lack of manpower, but it’s a critical component of success so do whatever it takes to get it done.

Nowadays, it’s much easier for a small business to compete with larger enterprises, particularly in terms of technological advancements. Take advantage of these tools and focus on providing the highest possible level of service, and you’ll be well on your way to presenting the professional image you want and giving the bigger guys a run for their money.