Determine the requirements for BBB accreditation

Though it's not necessary to have your business accredited with the Better Business Bureau, doing so can gain you trust because of your willingness to meet BBB accreditation criteria. Though each local office of the Better Business Bureau has its own accreditation standards, there are certain minimum accreditation standards that all BBBs must follow.

I recommend: Read about the minimum Better Business Bureau accreditation standards at BBB. Also go to BBB Local to find information about Better Business Bureau offices in your area and to learn about the specific criteria to have your business accredited through them.

Find information about businesses and charities at the Better Business Bureau

Knowing how businesses and charities you plan to have dealings with have handled past disputes can help you make informed decisions. The Better Business Bureau also has a resource library where you can receive alerts and warnings about online security, as well as navigate to articles and reports about important business issues.

I recommend: Go to the Check out the Business and Charity webpage at the Better Business Bureau's national site. Enter the name of the business or charity you're interested in knowing about to see its record of disputes and how the organization handled them. There is also a BBB Resource Library where you can get up-to-the minute information about security alerts and tips that can help you protect your business.

Apply for a Better Business Bureau Seal

Having an official Better Business Bureau Seal shows that your business record meets a higher standard of customer relations than other businesses. It also shows consumers and other businesses that if any issues arise, you'll likely handle those matters fairly.

I recommend: Apply for an official Better Business Bureau Seal at BBBOnLine. You can also find information on how to do make others aware of your "seal of approval" at the national BBB site.

Learn about Better Business Bureau conflict resolution standards

It's important to know how to file complaints with the BBB as well as how to resolve customer disputes should issues arise.

I recommend: Check out Dispute Handling and Resolution on the BBB website to learn and receive training on how to resolve issues according to Better Business Bureaus standards. Go to the BBB to file a complaint when you can't find a resolution on your own.