When it comes to business, most people have high expectations. Ensuring your documents have a professional look about them is essential.
For some, seeing a shoddily produced letter, for example, will turn them off immediately, providing them with the illusion that the company likes to throw things together rather than spending time perfecting their offerings.
Continue reading for six ways to ensure your business’ documents have a professional look and, therefore, help you build a positive reputation.
1. Branding
If you wish to portray your business as an elegant one, you must ensure there is a consistency of branding across all your documents. This should be the same on your website and across all social media platforms, too.
Use the colors from your logo to create attractive headers, for example. These can help your work become instantly recognizable, a testament to consistent branding.
It is not simply the look of the document that is important when it comes to branding. The language which you use must fit in with your company’s ethos.
For professionalism, aim to avoid the use of slang words, contracted verb forms, and dialect.
2. Proofread
Even the best writers across the world still employ the services of a proofreader to ensure their work is free from errors, both linked to spelling and grammar.
Letters, posters and brochures, which are littered with mistakes, can be off-putting to many potential clients.
It shows a lack of care and attention, which people fear could also be translated into other aspects of the company’s doing.
3. Software
You may wish to cut corners in order to save money in certain aspects of your business, but it is always advisable to invest in the most up-to-date software, such as Microsoft Office 2019 professional plus.
This will allow all members of staff to have access to top quality applications, such as Word and Publisher, which can be utilized in many areas of your business.
4. Fonts
It can be tempting to use a variety of fonts to ensure interest in your documentation. However, too many can make things look too busy. Instead, try to limit usage to just two or three well-chosen fonts.
It is also advisable to stick to point 12 for the majority of the text. Any larger and it may look as though you are creating a puzzle book for the over 75s rather than an important, professional document.
Furthermore, try to avoid fonts that can look childish, such as Comic Sans, which can put people off.
5. Break Up Text
Too much text in one block within a document can switch off potential customers. It is best to break it up with visuals, such as graphs, infographics, and photographs, maintaining interest for a longer period of time.
6. Templates
The use of templates can support you in maintaining a professional image.
Not only do they help when it comes to consistency, but they can also save you time and effort. Of course, you must ensure that you choose one which fits your brand.
