Diary of a Start Up - Part 2: The Business Card

Part 2 - The Business Card

The business plan is written, the name registered, and the doors are about to be flung wide open.

But - first what every business person needs – a business card.

Easy; I have some design skills, I’m savvy with the PC I’ll just knock one up – surely it can’t be that hard. Wise business words of established business owners come back to haunt me… but …

And the but was learning to deal with creative suppliers (and I use the word creative lightly). Creative in their listening, less than creative in their doing – and as yet fingers crossed (as I haven’t seen the bill) lets just hope their creativity does not lend to their accounting. The question I have – if I am not happy with the service provided – and I can prove it other than a creative ‘not wanting to pay’ – am I obliged to pay?? Mmmh business ethics enter stage left.

Some would cite don’t pay; ‘it’s not personal – it’s just business’. BUT - It is personal - as a sole trader I’m paying. It’s food off my table. The decision I make is a direct reflection on who I am and what I stand for.

When I asked the supplier to do the work I made a vow (not in blood mind you) that I would pay for the services. Common practice not to I know, but anything less is fraud. It’s about being true to my word, either my yes is a yes, or perhaps an ask me later maybe.

As with most things that are worthwhile, it’s easier said than done. The invoice hasn’t arrived yet so either the supplier is aware of the poor performance – or the overall running of the business is creatively messy with a lack of integrity as well. The decision I make will be the right one – not because it feels good (believe me the cheque will be written with gritted teeth) but because it’s right.

From day one, in laying the foundation of start-up-dom, I decided I did not want to build a business without integrity. I decided that my word would be my word. Even if I am going to have to burn the midnight oil (and chances are I will), if I say I’ll deliver I will. In my experience that competitive advantage in itself these days.

Imagine - a doctor who is always on time for appointments, a trade person that doesn’t leave a mess, a bank that doesn’t rip you off in fees, a mobile phone service that doesn’t drop out when you are making the deal of a lifetime, or a lawyer that returns your calls. Now that’s a business you can rely on to deliver.

It’s not just about the face of the business; the customer service and perception, but the bones, the substance, the blood that gives life and enables a business to last. It’s the integrity of a business that creates legacies. I’m counting on the fact that customers see the reflection of who I am in the business, and their faith in the integrity of the business will make the difference.

Copywrite Integrabiz 2005, www.integrabiz.com.au

Article Source: http://www.therepozitory.com.au

Lisa is Coach with a wealth of 'hands on' life experience. A creative over-comer, motivator and facilitator of change, as a coach her style is pragmatic highly interactive, and always fun. Her Passion is being a catalyst and leader that makes a difference in other people's lives. Contact Lisa at www.integrabiz.com.au

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