Be honest, when someone says that you should make your business more accessible, you probably start to picture ramps, braille, and a general sense of bureaucracy that will cost you tons of time and money, and you probably start to wonder whether you’re really up for the challenge. This is only natural because, as a business owner, your first thought is going to be for your company and its bottom line. But, you know what? Accessibility can actually boost your business and make you more money in the future, and it really isn’t just about ticking boxes. After all, the more people who can interact with your company, the more potential customers you will have. Because guess what? People remember businesses that actually think about them.
With all that in mind, here are some tips to help you make your business more accessible, and do it the right way!
1. Start With the Obvious: Physical Access
Yep, ramps matter. So do wide doorways, clear signage, and public restrooms that don’t require advanced acrobatics to navigate. Whether you run a shop, café, office, or something in-between, think about how people with mobility issues would experience the space. And while we’re at it, automatic doors. They’re not just cool, they’re inclusive and practical when your customer is carrying three coffees and a toddler.
2. Go Digital (and Actually Mean It)
Your website might be sleek and stylish, but is it readable? Accessible websites are designed for people who use screen readers, rely on keyboard navigation, or need high contrast. Alt text on images, properly labeled buttons, and logical page structure make a huge difference. Oh, and skip the tiny font. No one wants to squint through your homepage like it’s a 17th-century treasure map.
3. Think Beyond Text
Not everyone processes information the same way. Some people love reading, others absorb info better by watching or listening. That’s where transcription services come in handy. If you have videos, podcasts, or any audio content, transcriptions make it accessible for those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or simply prefer skimming over listening. Bonus: it’s great for SEO, too. Look at you, being inclusive and strategic.
4. Train Your Team to Be Human Beings
Accessibility isn’t just about tools; it’s about attitudes. Your staff should know how to assist people with different needs without being awkward, condescending, or accidentally offensive. A little empathy training goes a long way. Also, big smiles and open minds? Free, and wildly effective.
5. Ditch the One-Size-Fits-All Mentality
The truth is, no two people have the same needs. So, the more flexible you are, the better. Offer different communication options (email, phone, chat), adjustable lighting in workspaces, seating variety, and flexible appointment times. You’re not trying to be everything to everyone, but offering options? That’s smart business.
Accessibility Is a Power Move
Making your business more accessible might be the right thing to do, but you know what? It is also the smart thing to do, and as you can see above, it is not all that difficult to achieve, so why not make a start, make things more accessible, and boost your customer base today?