March 21, 2025, Issue #8

Hello!

I hope this message finds you well. Last month I published Issue number 7, where I shared with you ways to be your own [business] detective and reminding you to adjust outdated processes as your business evolves. You can find it ​here​.

Today, I'm sharing best practices to help your business look professional. Many solo professionals assume that because they are small, they’re under the radar, and they can get by without pulling together all the essential components of their business. Instead you want to let the world know that you’re a professional and that you mean business! Keep reading for 5 easy to implement strategies.

All the best,

Laurie McAleenan

Virtual Assistant

Task Owl Va, LLC

Ways to Make Your Business Look More Professional

When you work for someone else, your employer provides you with a computer, a phone, an email address, and business cards. The company has a logo, a website and procedures established for how to get the work done.

But … when you work for yourself, you start with none of that. It’s up to you to provide these things for yourself. And even though many solo professionals have come from a corporate past, they don’t bring many of these things into their own businesses. I think that’s a mistake.

Many solo professionals assume that because they are small, they’re under the radar and they can get by without pulling together all the essential components of their business. But, whether you’re just starting out or already established and sitting pretty, here are five things that let the world know that you’re a professional and that you mean business!

1. Invest in a professional business card. Don’t get a free card from Vista Print; I mean, have one designed by a professional with up-to-date information and nice card stock. (I still receive cards where I can feel the perforations along the edge, which is a clear sign they printed it from home on their own printer!). Your card makes an impression every time you hand it to someone – a small investment in a professional-looking card will make a good one.
2. Get a real email address. I don’t mean using Gmail, AOL, Yahoo! or Hotmail. If you have a registered domain (http://www.YourCompany.com ), it’s just a few more steps to use it for email (jane@yourcompany.com). It’s worth the little bit of extra effort to demonstrate that you’re serious. Please leave nameofmycompany@gmail.com behind!
3. Invest in a professional headshot. This should be retaken every couple of years and used on your website, your LinkedIn profile, your bio, etc. It doesn’t have to be expensive, but it should be done by a pro in a professional setting.
4. Maintain a consistent look. Presentations, brochures, online materials, etc. Anything you show to clients, prospects, and others should feel consistent, instead of reflecting a new expression of creativity in each piece. Use consistent fonts and colors, as well as consistent wording in the way you describe who you are and what you do.
5. Don’t skimp on your tools. Make sure you have what you need to run your business well, including a good computer, a reliable printer, and a dedicated place to work without background/home noises. Invest in the software you need not only to do your work but to maintain your business on the back-end too.

All five of these things are easy to implement and relatively inexpensive. By doing them, not only will you give the world a better impression, you’ll feel like a million bucks!

Book Recommendations

Business Networking: Become a Rainmaker by Building Fantastic Relationships That Stand the Test of Time

by Honoree Corder

Last month's book recommendation, Small Talk, pairs exceptionally well with today's recommendation, Business Networking by Honoree Corder.

Another small book that packs a big punch with teaching networking skills. In her book, Honoree helps the reader create a ranking system for the value of connections. It took little effort to implement this system and I found that I was able to quickly identify how often I needed to follow-up with my contacts.

I recommend this book to anyone who finds networking a challenge.

Shop Now!

About Task Owl VA

Hi, I’m Laurie McAleenan, the heart behind Task Owl VA

I help solo entrepreneurs and small business owners keep their businesses running smoothly by handling the details that take up time and energy.

When you’re managing everything on your own, it can feel overwhelming—but you don’t have to do it all yourself. I take care of the tasks keeping you from focusing on where you're needed most.

To introduce me to your business and find out if my services are right for you, book a free 30-minute call.

Book Now!