Starting a small business has never been so easy. There are plenty of reasons to dive in before all the details are ironed out, but as the saying goes, there’s no second chance to make a good first impression. A poor launch may bring setbacks from which it’s difficult to recover. Here, you’ll learn what a startup needs to make a favorable impression.

A Professional Website and Print Media

Though a company’s website and printed materials don’t have to be fancy, they should be a professional reflection of the company. As such, the site and the company’s marketing materials should contain customer-relevant information, such as contact info, a list of services or options, and business hours. Web designers and printing companies can help startup owners create simple, yet professional-looking sites and materials for budget-friendly prices.

Corporate Email Addresses

Even if your company has a well-designed website and slick marketing materials, it’s important to have a dedicated email provider. Get email addresses that match the company’s domain name; it’s easy and inexpensive to do. Some web hosting companies provide the service as part of a package, and GSuite email is available for as little as five dollars per month.

A Company Phone Number 

Have you ever called a company only to be answered with a brusque “hello” instead of a professional greeting? Such phone manners do not inspire much confidence, and that’s why it’s important for startups to have corporate phone lines. If a text or phone call comes in, it’s easier to respond appropriately. It’s no longer necessary to pay for a costly landline; with widely available online services, it’s easy to get a business number for just a few dollars per month.

A Business Address

These days, it’s acceptable to start a company from home, a co-working space, or anywhere there’s an internet connection. However, a business address adds another layer of professionalism and privacy. If you’re not quite ready to spring for an office space, consider renting a post office box and using it as the company’s address.

Prompt and Professional Invoicing

Even the most promising startup won’t last long if there’s no money coming in. Almost 70% of freelancers say that they’ve had clients who failed to pay. There are two ways to avoid such scenarios: firm contracts and fast invoicing. Numerous programs make it easy to create and provide cheap, yet professional invoices. It may even be possible to take payments through some online accounting services.

A Social Media Presence

Though it’s not necessary to be on all social media platforms, it’s crucial to find out where your customers are and focus on the most popular sites. At the least, snap up the “handles” that match your company’s name before a competitor does.

Business Credit

Your company’s suppliers, vendors, and lenders may be able to advance services and goods that can be paid for later. Getting important supplies on net-30 or net-60 terms may help build a company’s cash flow, but to get those favorable terms, you’ll need a positive credit history. Start building credit as the owner of a startup, and credit will be there when it’s needed.

In Closing

These days, startups are making waves across the corporate world. However, for every buzzworthy startup, there are hundreds that never make it. With these basic steps (and a healthy measure of patience), you’ll make a favorable impression on clients and get the company where it needs to go.