Category: Marketing blog

Your business has rights, of course it does. And both you and it should fight for these rights, too! But, just be aware that for every one right that your business has there are two laws placed upon it by the law and government. And, these laws cannot be broken; well, they can’t be broken if you want to keep your business out of some serious trouble. For advice on how to keep your business on the right side of the law, make sure to read on.

There will always be trouble ahead for your business to avoid. 

Don’t infringe on a name or trademark

If you are a prospective business owner and are yet to pick the name of your business, or if you want to completely renovate your business by renaming it, then you should be aware that you can’t just pick any old name. No, you have to do your research before your business’s new name is made official. Specifically, you need to ensure you do not copy a name that another business is already trading under; this would be trademark infringement, and this is a serious rule to break.

To protect your business from breaking this very serious rule, as stated you should do some research when you come to choosing your business’s name. This research includes first using a search engine to search your prospective name in order to see if it has already been taken. This research also includes actually learning how to trademark correctly from professionals in the field. By doing so, you will help your business to successfully circumvent the very serious trouble of trademark infringement.

Pay your taxes!

Paying your business taxes is something you simply have to do in order to stay on the right side of the tracks in regards to the law, whether you like it or not. So, make sure you pay it and never avoid it!

To ensure that you are paying your business’s taxes when and where you need to, the first thing that you should do is set yourself up a tax recording book. By doing this, and then recording all of your business’s instances of tax payments within it, you allow yourself the best opportunity possible of keeping your business up to date with its taxes. Something else that you should do is make sure you keep your finger placed firmly on pulse of the ever-changing world of taxes and taxations. This is because the rules chop and change, and regardless of whether you know of these changes or not you will need to abide by them.

Keeping your business out of trouble with the law is something you simply have to be doing for it. If you don’t, then you may find all the hard work you put into making your business all it can be is ruined in the blink of an eye. This could be because of the fact that, one, your business might be shut down by your local government, or two, your reputation may be tarnished that much in the eyes of potential customers that you wouldn’t be able to garner custom any longer.

In the modern age, many of us wonder whether business cards are necessary. Physical methods like these often fall by the wayside for interactive options. Instead of handing out cards, many businesses not pass out Twitter handles or websites.

But, it might not be the best idea to give up on business cards. In fact, we’d go as far as to say that they’re still one of the best ways to make your brand stick in clients minds. Sometimes, you can’t beat the old methods. Sure, many companies may be doing away with the practice. But, here’s why we think you should keep the tradition going.

The professional touch

If you’ve read or watched American Psycho, you’ll remember the business card battle. Patrick Bateman watches with despair as his associates out-do his offering with gold lettering and different shades of card. Bret Easton Ellis meant to poke fun at the business world. But, he had a point. Business cards are like currency in many circles. The design you choose, and the card you print it on, all play some part in forming the image of your business.

You don’t need to have ‘the best card on the table,’, but being unable to provide could be seen as bad preparation. It’s still commonplace to swap business cards with associates. The practice adds a touch of professionalism. It also shows that you’re willing to spend money to make your business look good.

Leaves a lasting impression

Your card is also a sure way to leave a lasting impression. Online platforms are all well and good. In fact, they’re crucial to modern business. But, once a customer clicks away from your website, it’s unlikely to stick in their minds. By comparison, a business card forms a lasting impression. It’s physicality, which could be seen as a downside, is actually the reason it’s worth considering. After all, clients will think of your company every time they see it. Even if they don’t search for your site, they could come across your card while cleaning. Just like that, your business will be back in their minds.

You could take this even further by creating a card with a difference. Simple things, like changing the shape, will help you stand out from the crowd. Or, you could opt for a more unique design, like the folding z card options from Alpha Cards. You can guarantee you’ll stand out from the crowd with an alternative card like these.

Ease of use

It’s also worth noting that business cards remain one of the easiest ways to spread your brand. It may seem strange, but websites and social media links require effort from your customer. They have to type it in, or remember it. And, why should they when they don’t even know who you are yet? By comparison, handing out a business card is as easy as picking it up and passing it over. And, your customer doesn’t even have to work for it. What could be better?

Online shopping has opened up a new world to eCommerce stores. Nowadays, retailers are open 24 hours a day and don’t require a customer to come into the store. It’s like a dream come true! But, there is a problem and it’s called shipping. Sadly, lots of unhappy customers return their items and ask for a refund. Sometimes, it’s because the product wasn’t how pictured, but mainly it’s due to damage. Returns are the bane of an online store’s existence because they cost money and impact lead generation.

Something must be done, then, to stop damage in transit. Thankfully, Viking Wanderer has the answers. Just carry on reading to find out more.

Use Extra Protection

A shipping company may take care of fragile items so that the company doesn’t have to bother. Not to be cynical, but don’t take the risk. Sure, there is a chance that the package will arrive without any damage. However, it’s a gamble, especially when there are cheap and accessible options to hand. One quick look at postaltubeshop.com and you’ll see a simple tube can make the world of difference. Or, just think about all the parcels which turn up in bubble wrap. They don’t do that for your benefit!

Review The Courier

Shipping is too expensive to keep in-house, which is why there is an agreement with an outsourcer. The thing is the shipping company may not be up to scratch. Some couriers are well known for their professionalism, such as DPD. If you aren’t aware, they take care of Amazon’s goods around the world. However, others, such as Hermes, don’t have the stellar reputation. Just because you haven’t had a problem yet doesn’t mean it won’t happen in the future, so consider making a change. Remember that their track record is an indicator how much money you stand to lose.

Don’t Over Pack

Packing is an art which eCommerce retailers have to learn. Those that do it correctly can save time and money by utilising space within a package. But, when you go overboard, it inevitably causes issues. A full parcel has no give or flexibility. So, should it hit a hard surface, the odds of it breaking are high. A box with fewer items has more room for the products to manoeuvre. Hopefully, the extra space should be enough to prevent any damage.

Deliver Via The Internet

Some products are impossible to deliver over the internet, for now! However, there are examples of items which don’t need sending physically. A gift card is a prime example because it can break or go missing. Amazon.co.uk has come up with a smart solution which is to send an e-ticket with a voucher code. That way, there is no reason to worry about damaged goods. Even if the item doesn’t break, it may get lost in the post and result in a customer refund. Wherever possible, try and utilise e-tickets for money and safety purposes.

Follow these tips and customer returns should become a thing of the past.