Businesses need customers to grow and expand. But, customers aren’t the only people who are a vital source of cash flow. Clients, or peer to peer associates, are another way to cut a deal and make money. Clients are on the lookout for new opportunities, and your company might be perfect. However, before you put your trust in a stranger, it’s important to understand whether they are genuine. Otherwise, the company won’t get paid for the hours you bill.
Here is how to make sure a client or potential business partner is legitimate.
Check For An ISO
ISO stands for International Organisation for Standardisation and is a sign the company isn’t bogus. Still, it’s worth noting that a logo is easy to replicate. Plus, the ISO doesn’t hand out the certifications themselves – relevant bodies do. With this in mind, it is never a good idea to take an ISO symbol for granted. Instead, check for the establishment which affiliated the logo in the first place. If it checks out, then contact them to verify the company’s certification. Usually, the logo has a pin or a number which makes the process easier, or the business name should suffice.
Head To The Site
High street companies aren’t as common because of the popularity of online businesses. So, it is logical to go to the client’s website to review their details. To begin with, UK law states that a business site must register their information on the site. If they aren’t there, it’s not a great sign. Also, make sure there are contact details which put you in touch with the top brass as there is nothing better than talking on the phone. As a last resort, you can complete a domain check to make sure the site isn’t a sham.
Look For Feedback
Of course, a website can’t tell you everything about an organisation. Fake entrepreneurs are computer literate and understand how to game the system. One of the reasons debtor finance is a booming industry is because people place too much trust in the Web. Rather than using an online tool to make a decision, you should speak to real people instead. Previous customers who have been in partnership with a company can give you a relatively unbiased opinion. If the majority of the feedback is positive, it should be fine to continue. Just be careful not to let petty differences get in the way.
Talk To Trading Standards
Because you’re not a private eye, tracking down previous partners might be difficult. Don’t worry, though, because Trading Standards is on hand to help. In the UK, this organisation keeps track of complaints. By tapping into their database, figuring out whether a company is trustworthy is a simple task. All you have to do is go to the website and follow the instructions. Make sure you look for the ISO logo first.
If they pass these tests, they are worthy of your trade.
