As I write about endorsements and how they can be used in your home business, I am thinking of them from two different perspectives. First, the endorsements that you have received (or will receive) from other people and institutions and second, the possibility that you can give and share endorsements to others with your home business operation.
Endorsements can come in the form of credentials—if you have certain credentials, licenses or other “special accommodation” that you have received that can enhance your professionalism, by all means you should use them to promote your business. Additionally, endorsements can be a bit like testimonials if they come from other respected individuals or known companies or agencies. If you can get a good endorsement from a respected entity and get their permission to use it in your business, then it is a great asset to use in promoting your business to prospective clients and customers. You do not have to have many endorsements; a few key ones will usually do the trick.
On the flip side, others may be looking for testimonials and endorsements they can get from you. It is important to consider whether or not it is a good fit for your business reputation when you endorse or support another business, individual, political candidate, cause or whatever. Of course, you should go with what you believe in and follow your convictions, but be careful about who you attach your business name to as it will have repercussions among your market. If people see your name or your business name attached to a cause or product that they disagree with, they may decide to take their business elsewhere. Endorsements can work in your favor, however, if you choose carefully and they can expand your business to a new market or strengthen relationships and collaborations that can give your business more “reach.”