One of the most important things a person considers before they decide to do business with someone is whether or not that individual or business is credible. Having credibility is important because it helps brand your business plus it's also a primary buying trigger. We tend to buy from people we trust and consider to be experts in their field. The good news is that with a plan of action plus some execution, you too can achieve an increase in your business credibility.
Here's my "How To Increase Your Business Credibility" plan of action:Tip # 1: Publish - Being published in a major publication is perhaps the single best way to achieve credibility. When you provide quality information to thousands of readers, what you're doing is positioning yourself as a credible expert. Create a plan to get yourself published in some notable places both on and offline. For example, write guest articles for local papers or blog posts for an industry leader. Once you get your feet wet it will be easier for you to try to seek publications in industry magazines or newsletters too.
Tip # 2: Teach - Teaching also allows you to establish your credibility. With online teaching technology you can now share your knowledge in a number of ways. You can host online seminars or you can create a forum or membership site too. Sharing your knowledge is an excellent way to establish your credibility.
Tip # 3: Be Interviewed - Being interviewed can be a nerve wracking process. However, when someone interviews you it also gives you the instant credibility you're looking for. Look at your circle of influence and consider who in it may want to swap interviews with. You can then publish the interviews or make them available on your website.
Tip #4: Network - It's not what you know, it's who you know. In many ways this old saying is true! You can gain credibility just by who you know. For example, if you're in the speaking industry and you say, "The other day Les Brown told me" and then just like that... you instantly absorb some of his credibility just buy knowing him. Of course you also have to work to retain that credibility. Also it's important that you network not just with industry gurus but also other people in your field. The more you connect with others, the more your own credibility will build.
Tip # 5: Get Good Press - Good press and publicity will also help boost your credibility and of course your visibility too!;o) It puts you in the public eye and if the media picks up on the story, then you would have earned the added visibility and perhaps even a client or two along the way!
Finally, it's important to create a sense of professionalism on your website. This is established by clearly communicating your policies and procedures. Have a clear and effective customer service policy. Treat everyone with respect and courtesy.
Credibility is something that's earned, not automatically given. This is done by establishing yourself as an expert in your industry. Creating trust with your customers and prospects, and through consistency, transparency and being clear with your communications.
Now take a look at your website, your marketing materials, and any communication materials you send out to your clients and ask yourself this question: "How can I make changes that will increase my credibility?" Start there and sprinkle in a few of the tips above and you'll be well on your way towards making yourself the expert of choice within your industry!
I teach entrepreneurs and business owners how to use social marketing to increase their income while building their brand and their business. For more information on how to promote yourself or your business online, please visithttp://www.pamlawhorne.com. |
