The Journey to a Professional Business Email

Whether you opt for a non-branded email account or invest in a branded email through Google Workspace or Microsoft 365, making the right choice is key to maintaining a strong brand presence.

In the early stages of a business, many people default to using a personal Gmail or Outlook address. 

It's quick, free, and easy. 

However, as your business grows, having a branded email like info@helpsathand.co.uk can help you stand out, create trust, and reinforce your brand identity with every interaction.

Consider this: Would you trust an invoice from "helpsathand@gmail.com" as much as "chris@helpsathand.co.uk"? 

A branded email immediately looks more established and professional, reassuring potential clients that they're dealing with a legitimate business.

If you're starting a new business and need a quick and free solution, using a Gmail or Outlook address can be a practical choice. 

Here are the steps to set one up:

Go to Gmail or Outlook.

Click on "Create Account" and follow the prompts.

Choose a professional-looking email handle (e.g., yourname . business @ gmail . com).

Set up recovery options to secure your account.

Customise your inbox with labels and filters to stay organised.

Pros: It's free and quick to set up. It's easy to access from any device. It includes security features like two-factor authentication.

Cons: It doesn't look as professional as a branded email and may not build as much trust with clients.

A business email matching your business name is essential for a more professional appearance. 

It enhances credibility and ensures consistency across all communications.

Visit Google Workspace. Click "Get Started Now" and enter your business details. Choose a domain name or use an existing one. Follow the setup instructions to verify your domain. Create email accounts for yourself and your team.

Pros: It is user-friendly and integrates well with Google services. It provides reliable security and spam filtering and is scalable as your business grows. 

Cons: Monthly subscription cost. Requires domain setup and verification.

Go to Microsoft 365. Choose a plan that fits your needs. Register your domain or connect an existing one. Follow the guided setup process. Set up Outlook for desktop and mobile access. 

Pros: It works seamlessly with Microsoft Office apps, has high security and compliance features, and supports shared mailboxes and collaboration tools.

Cons: It's a slightly more complex setup. There is a slightly higher monthly subscription cost, but you can access a broader selection of business products for which you might need to buy licences separately from several individual suppliers.