In the digital world, just as in the physical world – many of us try to appear bigger than we really are, subscribing and perpetuating the myth that bigger is better.  With our websites we have the opportunity to be seen as much bigger than our 1, 2 or 3 heads and many small business people try to do just that.

• Have you ever said we instead of I when stating your opinion or experience?
• Have you elected to exclude personal information from your website, because it would show that you are a sole trader?
• Do you talk about your ‘team’ when you wear all the hats?

If this is the case you may be doing yourself a disservice. Here are two reasons why you should be proud to be small…

People like to buy from people

If you are trying to appear like a big organisation you will miss out on one of the most exciting opportunities available to website owners; that people like to buy from people.

• Why do you think that social media like Facebook and Twitter is so popular?
• Why do you think we have such an affinity with human interest stories, or reality TV?

We are voyeurs into the human experience for a reason; because we are human!

With your website, if you give people insight into your personal experience, they will get to ‘know’ you for what you share. If you can evoke an emotional response they will feel emotionally connected to you.

Many people wonder if they should write under a pseudonym or hide their identity on their website. If you are genuinely interested in creating income, your biggest asset is YOU! You are what gives your work credibility and individuality and it would be a real shame to waste it.

Regardless of whether your website is about allergies or artwork, fashion or fitness, your website will benefit from a personal communication or voice. Many large corporations realise this and are now using a blog to get more personal.

The quality of your customer service is as important as the product or service you provide

Who you are is as important as what you sell.

When dealing with your business. Your customer’s loyalty to you will be based on:

1. The quality of the product or service you provide and
2. Your level of customer service, reliability and trustworthiness.

If you provide high quality products or service with great customer service, what your customers will remember is YOU. People love to share referrals, and that is exactly the position you want to be in. There is an accountability that comes with knowing who you are dealing with, so make the most of it. Be the kind of person that your clients and partners love to share, the credibility that you personally gain through your level of service is something that can not be bought.

Be proud to be small and provide a great service. Be proud to be a real person with a real face.

Your website will thank you for it!

Happy Hunting!

Serena Star Leonard