Gaining the trust of your potential customers is a necessary step in helping your business grow. That’s why building credibility is such a big deal. Credibility means that others look to you as a reliable resource and trust you to do a good job when they’re doing business with you. Building credibility won’t happen overnight – it has to be earned, just like respect. Establishing your credibility shows that you are committed to your business and that you’re serious about providing real solutions for your customers’ needs. Looking to become more credible? There are several things you can focus on:
share your knowledge
You may be an expert in your field, but there’s no need to keep that knowledge to yourself! By sharing what you know with your customers, you give the impression of being skilled, experienced, and professional. Show that you know your stuff by writing blogs, sharing tips on social media, and explaining to your customers exactly what you’ll be doing to help them.
communication is key
Sharing your knowledge is a must, but make sure the way you’re communicating is clear so that your clients can understand it, even if they don’t know the technical jargon of your field. You want to share it in a way that is easy for them to comprehend. Make sure you’re also using proper grammar and spelling in written materials so that you don’t come off as unreliable.
make it easy for your clients
Having a clear, streamlined process is essential for making yourself look professional and on top of things. Make it as easy as possible for your clients by automating as much as possible. It will make it easier for you and your staff too, giving you more time to focus on your customers’ needs, and in turn building your credibility.
keep it consistent
Everything related to your business, from what you tell customers in-person to your online presence, should have a consistent message. If you’re communicating different things in multiple ways, it’s going to make it difficult for you to gain credibility. Ensure that you are being consistent across all platforms and all employees so that your business will appear reliable.
be accountable
You’re only human, so errors are bound to happen. If you make a mistake, take responsibility for it. You must be accountable for your decisions and actions, so own up to anything you may have done wrong and take the steps needed to correct it. Your customers will appreciate that you were willing to fix your mistakes and will remember that you did so.
show off a little
There’s no reason to be shy! Showcase awards you’ve received and recognize your achievements in a public setting, such as on social media or your website. Even small wins can make a big difference when it comes to promoting your credibility. Don’t be afraid to show your customers how proud you are and how far your business has come.
involve your audience
Ask your customers for feedback! You can’t build credibility without their support, so use their feedback to improve your business. You can even use some of their quotes to share as testimonials on social media, your website, or printed materials like brochures. Positive customer feedback is an absolute must, so that others can see that you are trustworthy and great at what you do.
Becoming credible isn’t quick or easy, but it’s a powerful way to take your business to a whole new level. It all boils down to your audience’s perception of you. Let your customers know that they can trust you and count on you by building your credibility.
