We’ve previously explored the benefits of inviting an external assessor into your business. Back in 2022, we shared our journey with ISO9001:2015 certification (External Assessment – is it worth it?).
Since then, the business environment has become even more competitive and challenging. It’s no longer enough to simply believe you’re doing well. You need to show it. Demonstrating your reliability and consistent delivery to stakeholders, partners and customers has never been more crucial. Can your business prove it’s ready to thrive under pressure?
We believed ourselves to be a good employer offering high-quality customer service. But anyone can make such claims. So, we took a hard look in the mirror. Could we back up those beliefs with evidence? Could we confidently promote our strengths to the world?
Maybe your business would benefit from doing the same. Could you raise your profile, gain customer trust, and prove your excellence? If so, where should you begin? If it helps, we summarise our own journey below as an example.
Start With Your People
For us, it started with valuing and recognising our team. People are the heart of any business. The North East Combined Authorities Good Work Pledge was the perfect starting point. Being recognised, for the second time at the Advanced Level, affirmed that our systems and practices provide good work to good people. Can you demonstrate the same? Learn more about the Good Work Pledge
Celebrate Fair Pay
We believe in rewarding our team fairly – so why not shout about it? Our Christmas 2024 present was to achieve accreditation from the Living Wage Foundation as a Living Wage Employer. It’s a powerful way to show you care about your team’s well-being. You might already be paying the Living Wage without realising it. Why not check? Explore the Living Wage Foundation
Highlight Your Expertise
Ultimately the success of a business is down to its people and how they are with customers. Our people are our greatest asset. We’re proud of the exceptional Information, Advice, and Guidance they provide, and which was validated by our achievement of the Matrix accreditation this year (Discover The matrix Standard) In their report, the Matrix Assessor highlighted excellent feedback from both our customers and our partners/stakeholders including:
“They have quite a wealth of knowledge. So even if they don’t know, they can refer you to someone who can help.”
“They are professional when they contact you and are mindful that you are busy too.”
“I think the best thing is their vast amount of experience and their approach to businesses. They’re really quite gentle and supportive rather than going in with a hard sell. That’s really important for the small businesses that we’re working with.”
“Where they can be flexible, they are and that’s important. These are busy businesses.”
Prioritise Security
In a digital-first world, safeguarding customer data is paramount. Obtaining Cyber Essentials certification has enhanced our understanding of cybersecurity risks. Through a comprehensive self-assessment and a successful independent audit, we’ve demonstrated our commitment to safeguarding both customer and company data. Learn more about Cyber Essentials.
Facing the Future Together
The challenges in business will keep coming, but every step we take to improve and build trust, enhances our customer experience, and strengthens our resilience. Are you ready to take your business to the next level? If you’re looking to develop your business, your team, or their skills, NBSL is here to help. Whether through grants or training, we can support you. Visit Grant funding and business support from NBSL or Business skills training from NBSL to find out more.