Five Surprising and Important Things Your Business May Be Lacking

Anita Ginsburg

January 19, 2016

	Not rated
	Rate:

Running a business is rewarding, to be sure, but there are always aspects of both the company and the product or service that can and should be evaluated from time to time for possible replacement or improvement. Faster, better and cheaper isn't just a catch-phrase. It is the basis for getting the most out of your company's growth and revenue potential. Here are a few things your company might want to consider in the future.

Reputation Management

We've all seen the sometimes public and sometimes entertaining disagreements over online reviews. The truth is for every silly review, there may be one or more inaccurate or potentially damaging statement published online involving one of your products or your company name. With all of this information a click away, it is very important you consider how your present and future customers might see your business through the eyes of a search engine.

Software Subscriptions

Many business owners are unaware of the recent shift from locally installed software to subscription-based or cloud-based alternatives. While this might seem at first glance to be a frivolous expense, the truth is having the latest version of a powerful software package can be the difference between a good product and a great product. Saving your capital doesn't hurt either.

Better Business Insurance

It goes without saying that a business owner should review their company's insurance situation at regular intervals. Some companies make it easy to evaluate cost structures, potential liabilities and exposures and provide valuable insight on the relationships between your coverages and policies. Coverage for on-the-job injuries is just one of the purposes of business insurance. It's definitely something that shouldn't be overlooked.

Government Relations

Even a small business should consider its relationship with local officials. Often the simple knowledge of a first name can make the difference between your company being just another number on a list someplace and a community leader with a lot to offer someone's constituents. Take a few minutes to at least introduce yourself to the officials at the city and county level. You might be surprised at what they might have to offer.

Signage

A professionally designed logo is no longer the sole province of big corporations. If the Internet has taught us anything it is that the level playing field puts everything in your company in competition with everyone else. Getting caught without a business card or a good ad campaign at the wrong time can literally make or break the business.

There is always room for improvement. More often than not, the next great achievement for your company is likely sitting in the center of your desk and might seem mundane and unimportant, but it could be the inspiring moment that literally changes everything.