Running a successful business in today’s competitive market is not an easy task. Too many organizations lose focus on what’s important for their business and often use similar strategies and tactics to those that their competitors use, making it difficult for customers to see what sets them apart.
When you don’t have loyal customers, it’s doing more harm to your business than you realize. Brand loyalty is essential for any business. It means you have a dedicated customer base who keep coming back to purchase your products and services no matter how much your competitors try to sway them away.
For your business to succeed, you need to stand out from other companies and give customers a reason to return. Keep reading to find out how you can make your business stand above the competition.
1. Hire an ASL Interpreter
Communication should be at the forefront of your business, regardless of how big or small your organization is. Being able to communicate effectively with employees, customers, and suppliers helps build strong, lasting relationships. Part of building strong relationships is by being inclusive and engaged, this applies to those who are Deaf or hard of hearing.
According to the American Disability Act (ADA), title II entities (State and local governments) and title III entities (businesses and nonprofit organizations that serve the public) are required to communicate effectively with people who have communication barriers.
Hiring an ASL interpreter will allow you to communicate with people who are Deaf or hard of hearing through interpretation services. This is one way to make your business stand out amongst your competitors.
2. Redesign Your Spaces
If you have a range of videos on your website to demonstrate the services your business provides, ensure there are subtitles included on these or consider embedding an ASL interpreter in the corner of the screen. This will allow people who are Deaf or hard of hearing to gain a better understanding of what services you have to offer.
In-person, you can display clearly which employees can communicate through sign language either on name tags or posters to help accommodate your customers or clients. Sending emails is also a great way to communicate with your Deaf or hard of hearing employees and keep them informed of any company updates.
3. Hire Multilingual Employees
As the market continues to grow globally, the need for employees who speak multiple languages is increasing. Having someone within your business who speaks a diverse range of languages will be beneficial as it means you can communicate effectively with clients or customers on a global scale.
If you have someone who speaks multiple languages, it can save costs for your business as the need for translation services is not required. If you hire someone who is multilingual, it can give you a unique selling point (USP) and attract new clients or customers, giving you an advantage over the competition.
4. Sponsor a Local Charity, Team, or Organization
A smart way to win more customers is by being involved more in the local community. Participating in charity events, teams, or organizations can help boost your brand visibility by putting your business in front of a large audience. Being involved with a local charity can help strengthen your image within the community and set you apart from other businesses.
Events can also help your business find new leads and start quality relationships. Customers prefer brands who help the community and spread a positive message, so this can help your business stand out from the rest.
5. Make Your Business a Safe Place for Everyone
Ensure that emergency procedures are easy to understand and follow. One way of doing this is by installing fire alarms and smoke detectors with strobe lighting to help indicate to those who are Deaf or hard of hearing that they need to evacuate the building. These should also be installed in bathrooms and other communal areas.
The World Health Organization (WHO) states that over 5 percent of the world’s population (466 million people) experience some form of hearing loss. These figures highlight the need for businesses to be more accommodating in providing a safer environment for all employees and customers.
When your business takes the necessary steps to communicate effectively, be more inclusive of everyone’s needs, and find new ways to go above and beyond, your business will get well-deserved recognition and set you apart from everyone else. Follow these tips to find new ways to accommodate for all employees, customers, and suppliers.
