A professional image is something every Independent Business Owner must present to customers, prospects and downline. Many people view professionalism as something that individuals should practice. However, the concept stretches to all aspects of business. A successful business integrates professionalism into all aspects of its operations, advertising, and customer relations.
In order to understand the true importance of professionalism, the first step is to understand what it means. According to Keys to a Successful Business, one definition is that professionalism is “adhering to a set of values which include meeting business obligations, conducting oneself according to formal and informal codes of conduct, and meeting the expectations of everyone with whom we come into contact as part of our business role.”
While professionalism must work at all levels of the business, it starts with each individual business owner. Professionalism is further defined by showing the respect you have for your customers and fellow networkers in every aspect of your business. You can show your respect by being punctual for meetings, adhering to confidentiality agreements, showing focus and care, and listening actively to the needs of others.
Expectations are the first step in integrating professionalism into the business. When you’re an Independent Business Owner, it means creating expectations on how your downline IBOs should treat customers, prospects and even the competition. It means having clear expectations on conduct and service.
The IBO who is a leader should clearly communicate all expected behaviors to their downline and provide training as appropriate. Training in providing caring service is one example. Teach every IBO in your organization how to treat prospects and customers under different circumstances. Any new IBO should have to complete training within a short time of joining the company.
Individual behavior is only one aspect of professionalism in business. How IBOs present themselves through written, spoken, and visual communications are just as important. LPGN takes care of much of this for you with professionally designed marketing tools.
The IBO needs to have clear written communications. All written communications, from emails to formal letters, should be free of grammar and spelling errors. LPGN provides templates for emails in the Virtual Office under Tools → Contact Manager; however, each IBO who chooses to personalize communications should make sure grammar and spelling are precise and correct.
Visual communications should be pleasant and consistent. Business cards and stationery must extend that image of professionalism. Again, LPGN has created templates for you to personalize so you don’t have to spend money on designing your IBO business card. This not only lowers your cost but also allows for greater consistency in that you can use the same logos as is used for other company materials. All of these aspects can bring together your professional image. When you offer a professional image to the world, it draws customers and business partners to you.
Harvard Business School professor Laura Morgan Roberts says that if you aren’t managing your own professional image, others are. "People are constantly observing your behavior and forming theories about your competence, character, and commitment, which are rapidly disseminated throughout your workplace. It is only wise to add your voice in framing others' theories about who you are and what you can accomplish."
Research shows that the most favorably regarded traits are trustworthiness, caring, humility, and capability. In contrast, what most people want to be described as is technically competent, socially skilled, having integrity and being committed to their work, team and/or company.
What kind of image do you project to your downline and team members? Taking the time to ensure you exude a sense of professionalism can help inspire your team and attract more people to you.