Bloom Gets Better Business Bureau Accreditation

Inside Bloom / June 27, 2008

We’re proud to announce that Bloom is now an accredited BBB business. Given the high value we place on ethics, reliability and building a name that can be trusted in our industry, we felt that an accreditation by the Better Business Bureau would be a perfect fit for the way we do business.

The Process

The team at the BBB made the process very simple and straightforward. We initially contacted them requesting information on getting our business accredited. We were then contacted by the local chapter and after a few quick emails and a phone call, they scheduled an appointment to visit our offices in person. We had a great meeting where we explained what we do and showed them how we operate and work with our clients. We also went over the BBB’s code of business and advertising practises that are to be observed as well as the benefits that being a member of the BBB offered. We then completed the application online, paid the membership fee and after a few short weeks received the approval by email with the reliability seal and online profile page to link to. Our paper certificate followed by mail a couple of week later.

The Benefits of Being a Member

Having worked on the client side for companies that have been part of the BBB, we’ve experienced the benefits that being a member offers. For example,

• You get to place the BBB logo on your website and use it in marketing materials so that you can build trust with potential clients who do not know you yet.
• You also get to provide an extra level of transparency to potential clients, suppliers and business partners through business reliability reports. These reports provide information on member and non-member businesses alike, alerting them to any consumer complaint histories, law enforcement actions, and advertising practises.
• You get listed in printed and online member directories that give you the opportunity to participate in BBB co-op advertisements and to sponsor websites, publications and events.
• You get to network and build relationships with other BBB members who also adhere to the BBB’s code of business practises.

In summary, being a member of the BBB allows you gain additional exposure while reinforcing an image of trust and ethical business practices with potential clients, strategic partners, and suppliers.

What This Means

For us, business as usual, but at the same time it’s another instance of practicing what we preach. We recommend to our clients that they prominently display reliability seals and logos on their websites and landing pages to increase the level of trust (and conversions) of their website visitors. The BBB is one such seal that shows potential clients that you take a commitment to providing exceptional service and adhering to strict ethical business practices very seriously.

Already a member of the BBB or are considering joining? Share your thoughts! We’d especially love to hear your thoughts on the BBB and its benefits for consulting companies.