No matter what business you are in chances are that you are not the only one providing that particular product or service. You have competition and you need to differentiate yourself from them. And to do this does not always mean making a better widget or providing more services. Many times a client can be won or lost simply by the image, or lack thereof, that a company has portrayed. A professional image can do wonders to your bottom line.

The first impression your company will normally give to prospective clients is at your front door and it starts with your sign. It may sound like a simple thing but many businesses get this part wrong. Your sign is your companies image to the rest of the world. That is why large corporations spend millions of dollars trying to get it right. But small businesses need to think about it this as well. You do not have to spend millions but you should follow these simple rules.

Think About Contrast

Most people are only going to look at your sign for a few seconds so you will want it to be eye catching and to stand out. Using contrasting colours will accomplish this. For example you would want avoid a dark colour logo on a dark background as everything will tend to blend in together. Instead a dark blue logo on a yellow background grabs the attention of people.

Make Sure Your Message Is Clear

Try not to have too many catch phrases or sales pitches on your sign. The more clear and concise you make your sign not only will it look better but it will also make it easier for people to remember. Your company message should be conveyed in a short and clear message.

Visibility Is The Key

You can have the best sign design and the best sales slogan, but if no one can see it then it will be of little use to you or your potential customers. Put your sign in a position that best suits where it will most likely be seen. That could be over the front entry way or on the side of your building if you are on a corner. Also think in terms of lighting. A well lit sign not only looks professional but it will catch people's eye as well. It can also add contrast to sign that is predominately one colour.

Update Your Image And Your Sign

No large business leaves their image untouched for too long so why should yours be any different. If you have not changed your look for many many years it should be time for an image refresh. You will be able to connect more with clients when your business looks fresh and up to date. It can give the impression that your business is current and relevant to today's customers and can adapt and change along with the market.

If you treat every aspect of your business with the same care and thought as your sign you will be one, if not, many steps ahead of the competition and success should be just around the corner.