You’ve heard them all: “Perception is reality,” “Image is everything,” and “You don’t have a second chance to make a first impression.”

Although it’s easy to gloss over them, you can still find some truth in these adages. And with social media and text messaging, it’s tempting to talk to customers in shorthand. But prospects have so many options available to them, they want a reason not to do business with you. And a typo on your website’s homepage may be just the out their looking for. That’s why it’s important to convey professionalism in all of your business efforts. Especially with print collateral and business communications, from business forms, to invoices, an eight-page brochure or a simple email, impress your prospects…every time. Make sure to check these things off your list when proofreading your printed marketing materials and business communications:

• Double- and triple-check your contact information.
• Check dates and times, especially with newsletters, schedules and invitations.
• Review page numbers and cross-check with the table of contents.
• Check grammar and spelling. (Make sure you spell people’s names correctly, too.)
• Maintain consistency throughout the piece. If you have multiple contributors, assign one person to proofread the entire project.
• Be precise and concise; don’t use more words than necessary to get your point across.
• Avoid jargon or industry- or even company-specific acronyms – it alienates your audience.

Especially when it takes such little time to get it right, never let an unprofessional piece put your reputation at risk. Proofread, present a polished piece, and you will profit.

Filed under: Uncategorized