What Does Your Client List Say About You?

I am editing a website for a new client. It includes a list of customer companies – a good addition to a small business website. I noticed several things about the list that I will point out to my client, however. They may impact how potential customers see him.

1. Several company names are out-of-date. I know for sure that two of them merged with other companies over 10 years ago and the names changed. Has it been more than 10 years since he’s worked with these companies? I expect he wants to show substantive experience, but I would recommend he include the new name with the old in parentheses.
2. The website includes several great quotes from people he’s done work for.  The companies these individuals represent are not on his customer list, however. It’s an inconsistency that made me wonder how out-of-date the list is.
3. The customer list is not in alphabetical order and when I reordered it, I found a duplicate name. It looks more professional to have the list in alphabetical order and will prevent duplication errors.
4. There are over 30 names on the customer list. My client has been in business for many years, so I would anticipate a that he has worked with many customers, but I would recommend showcase a few names and note that it is a partial list. I would recommend he chose those that represent the type of customer that he wants to attract now. He may select customer names from specific industries or company sizes, for example.

Those who read our websites, resumes and other communications develop an impression of us through what we say and how we say it.  It can be helpful to have another person read what you write before you post it or send it out and give you feedback.  I’d be happy to help out!

Get Out of the House!

I’ve had a down couple of days – low energy, too much time alone, questioning what I’m doing working alone as a freelance consultant when I could be safe and secure in a “real” job. I’ve been wrapping up the business I’ve decided to let go of – and as I go through the tasks, I realize why I’m moving on. Its put me in your basic funk. Ugh!!
The calendar is barer than I’d like – purposefully so, I need to remind myself, that time to refocus, rebrand and reenergize is part of my plan. I have lists of things to do that will move me in the right direction and already have a time crunch on new business starting out a couple of weeks from now. No real need to worry.
So, here I am writing in a coffee shop and feeling better. I’m surrounded by chatter and people enjoying all manner of goodies and see others with their computers or notebooks busily engaged in their work. There’s lots of positive energy and I’m catching it! As I write new ideas pop into my head that I jot down for later. My pen flows over the words of my blog – keying it into the computer will come later – I am a pen and notebook writer.
So though an introvert, I know I need to make time to go out every now and again – preferably before a funk sets in!
What do you know about how you regain energy when feeling down? Find a strategy that pulls you up and propels you forward into a positive, productive mood!