Tips: "How to Start an ASL Interpreting business
First, As you try to grow your ASL Interpreting Services Business, here is a business tip that will give you a little edge in getting more clients. Always have at least 5-10 business cards with you at all times. Don't get caught with out one because that could have very well been the extra money you needed for your weekend in Maui or even a contract resulting in up to a year of work. You must professionally and ethically let people know what you do. Also, you will be surprised to see how many contacts you can make through everyday people such as store clerks, gas station cashiers, club and church acquaintances, even family members. This is your business, even your lively hood, hand out your business cards with pride.
Second, You will spend a lot of time answering the phone. You should know that you will be speaking with Business Owners and professionals from all across your state, and one of the things that will set your ASL service apart from another is being unprofessional. Your Professional standards should be reflected at all times and for even the shortest of dealings. As a business owner, your loyalty is to your customers, because without them you are out of a job. Business owners need to learn some basic customer service skills. If you get a call on your business cell phone and answer by saying, "Hello." It sounds to your prospective client like they may have accidentally called the wrong number and may feel embarrassed right away or even feel they are bothering you, continuing with conversation they may feel skittish and untrusting. You need to sound like you are more than just a one man band who drives around all day eating lunch in your car while driving from appointment to appointment. Smile. What is the image you want to portray?
Instead, you should answer your phone, "ASL Interpreting Service, this is Bill..." now as a potential client, they know exactly who you are and are feeling comfortable and ready to “CONNECT”, get info, share any concerns, and most importantly, trust. Image is everything. If it comes down to two companies bidding on the same job, the company that presents themselves as professionals, gets the professional jobs!
Follow these tips and you WILL find more success.
For more tips on how to start an ASL Interpreter business see our Business Guide page.
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