What we think < You Look Marvellous!
The American comedian Billy Crystal created a character back
in the '80s whose catchline
was "it's not how you feel, its how you look. And you look maaaahvelous!"
How people feel about you is so important not only when developing
transactional business but also when seeking to influence stakeholders,
regulators, policy makers, etc.
Think about the sunny summer afternoon day out at the coast and
how you decide where
to eat. "That looks nice", you'll say as you consider a well-kept
restaurant with plenty of parking and a nice play area for the kids.
Or, "not there" as you continue past the one with
the crumbling old brickwork and grotty entrance.
Good presentation attracts you while poor presentation repels;
you're more likely to try
the better-presented restaurant although you have no idea about
the quality of the food
or the dining experience (which should really be the key consideration).
It is no different
in business.Look professional and credible and your audience groups
are more likely to follow your lead.
Of course, the size of the presentation area will depend upon
how large the company / organisation is, the nature of the business
and the method of audience engagement.
As a general rule, every opportunity for interaction with an audience
group - be it direct
or passive - should abide by these presentational principles.
One of the most basic requirements is to assure that you have
a clean and functional website.
Again, the size and nature of your business will affect the extent
that your site needs to be developed. But at a minimum it has to
be functional, easy to use and attractive. It also has
to be a bottomless reservoir of information relating to your company
activities.
Perception is a very personal thing; one that is emotive and sometimes
has no logical basis. But perceptions can run rampant if companies
allow them to do so.
A well constructed digital marketing strategy, that engages with
audience groups and provides regular opportunities for update, is
one fundamental aspect of developing favourable audience perceptions.
Which allows you to get on with developing your business.