If I said the word ‘courier’ to you, what image would this conjure up? Do you picture an unkempt driver being late with your parcel delivery, or a network of courier agents carefully handling your consignment for a timely arrival? Given these varying perceptions, this is why it’s imperative that businesses – especially couriers – make a professional first impression, so as to create an excellent long-lasting impression.

Keeping up appearances

When purchasing products or utilising the services of a company, the quality of their offerings is often a good representation of the quality of their standards – so if their items are faulty or fail to live up to the expected quality, then it is highly likely that the business won’t apply the same degree of care to their staff or livelihood either. Ensure that anything in sight – from properly presented courier uniform to clean delivery vans – is presented to the highest standards, as you risk leaving your company as well as your reputation open to criticism. 

Organisation

In an industry where deadlines are of the utmost importance, it’s hugely important for couriers to practise what they preach – by making sure their consignments are delivered on time. Additionally, shipping should also be delivered intact; but with careful preparation and stringent planning, couriers can ensure they stick to a schedule that caters to both the needs of their business (such as keeping tracks of invoices and general administration) as well as that of their customers (for example, mapping appropriate routes to avoid time-wasting traffic jams).

Efficiency is everything

Efficiency is often equated with productivity – so the more efficient a company is, the more tasks will be undertaken meaning more deadlines will be met. By tailoring the input (according to factors such as number of customers and how much money is spent) of a courier, the business can adjust its capabilities and increase its output. Therefore by minimising certain measures (such as time, money and energy), couriers can maximise productivity – boosting overall efficiency.

Professionalism (with a personal touch)

Thanks to the rise of social media, more and more businesses are establishing contact with their customers via a number of platforms. While phone calls and emails are still a common form of communication, the instant gratification of responding via a Facebook post or tweet means companies must react quickly to any queries. However, though companies have a duty to be professional in all their interactions, it’s important they strike a healthy balance that encourages strong personal relationships with their clientele – therefore encouraging trust and loyalty with their customer base. 

Can you think of any other aspects a courier requires in order to be professional? Let us know your suggestions today. 

This post was supplied by www.myhermes.co.uk