Why Your Business "Resume" Matters More Than Ever

As a business owner, have you ever considered what your "resume" looks like? I’m not talking about the traditional piece of paper listing your achievements—I’m referring to your business's online presence, the modern-day resume that speaks volumes about your credibility and reputation.

Every week, I meet with business owners, and there's a recurring theme that deserves attention. Let’s dive in.

The Power of Word of Mouth

How much of your business comes from word-of-mouth referrals? For many, the answer is a significant portion. But here’s something worth pondering: when someone refers your business, do you believe potential customers call you immediately without looking you up online? If you think 100% of your referrals skip this step, you might be in the clear. Otherwise, read on.

Your Digital Resume: The First Impression

If you’re still with me, it’s time to take action. Today, Google your business. Use an incognito browser window to get an unbiased view of your online presence. Now, take a moment to evaluate what shows up:

• Competitor Ads: Are you seeing ads for other businesses?

• Google Profile: Is your Google Business Profile complete with reviews and accurate details?

• Social Media and Directories: Do listings on platforms like Yelp, Houzz, or Facebook showcase your business effectively?

• Reviews and Ratings: How many reviews do you have? What’s your rating? Are the reviews recent, and have you responded to them?

• Photos: Are there quality photos in your reviews or business profile?

Put yourself in your potential customer's shoes. Does what you see align with the business you want to project?

Your Website: The Next Step

Now, visit your website. Ask yourself the following questions:

• Does it immediately state what you do and where you’re located?

• Is your contact information, like a phone number or contact form, easily accessible above the fold?

• Does your site load quickly and provide a seamless user experience?

Remember, visitors typically spend only 2-3 seconds deciding whether to stay on your site. If your website is cluttered, unclear, or outdated, you could be losing valuable opportunities.

The Reality Check

Be honest with yourself: is your "resume" working for you or against you? If your online presence falls short, it could mean lost referrals and leads that never make it to your doorstep. The good news? These issues are fixable with deliberate effort.

Take Action Today

Here’s a simple plan:

1. Audit Your Online Presence: Make a list of what needs improvement, from reviews to website design.

2. Prioritize Changes: Focus on high-impact areas like your Google Business Profile and website.

3. Implement Fixes: Update your contact details, respond to reviews, and make your website user-friendly.

4. Monitor and Adjust: Regularly check your online presence and refine as needed.

Your business’s digital resume is more than just a reflection of what you’ve done; it’s a gateway to future opportunities. By taking these steps, you’re not just maintaining your reputation—you’re actively building a stronger foundation for success.

Start today, and make it easy for people to find and trust your business!

-Ryan Lee

# business resume, online presence, digital footprint, word of mouth, business referrals, website optimization, online reviews, local business marketing #