For small companies it can often be challenging to compete with the ‘big boys’ – you simply do not have the same resources at your disposal.

However, one area where you can compete on a level playing field is building your business reputation. This is because reputation is earned and not bought.

And while big corporates may spend a fortune on ‘reputation management’, all you really need to focus on is gaining trust and confidence from your customers and suppliers.

This factsheet looks at the key ways that your business can build its reputation.

Build your business reputation.pdf (pdf, 109K)

• Pricing your product or service

Factsheet How much are you going to charge your customers for your product or service? Getting your pricing right could double your profits at a stroke. Many start-up businesses work out a cost figure for each product and add a modest mark-up – known as cost-plus pricing. While this method is common, it is not the only way to arrive at a price. Invest serious thought into your pricing methodology at an early stage – it can pay big dividends later. Pricing is based on three critical points: What your product or service will be worth to your customers – its value What it costs you to produce your product or provide your service The price your competitors charge Pricing your product or service.pdf (pdf, 50K) An internet policy for your employees Factsheet The Internet is a powerful tool for improving your business’s efficiency. But it can also be a great way for employees to waste time, damage the security of your IT system and give you legal headaches. If you do not already have an Internet policy, you should actively consider putting one in place. A well-thought-out policy can help you enjoy the benefits of the Internet while reducing the pitfalls. It encourages employees to use the Internet effectively, states what you consider to be acceptable use, and sets up procedures to minimise security and legal risks. This briefing outlines: The main elements you need to include in your Internet policy How to implement and enforce this policy An internet policy for your employees.pdf (pdf, 41K) Factsheets This section provides you with over 200 factsheets on various important business issues.    Categories:    Design Family businesses Finance Franchising Health, safety & the environment Importing & exporting Innovation Law & regulations Managing employees Planning & operations Premises Sales & marketing Starting a business Websites & IT This information has been kindly supplied to us by businesslink4london. Contact Us Let us help you start or grow your business. You can call us: 0845 6000 787 You can fax us 020 8443 7270 You can contact us online using the form below: Business Link for London Link House 292 – 308 Southbury Road Enfield EN1 1TS Registered Number: 4110283 http://www.businesslink4london.com/