Credibility is key for any small online business. Without it, customers will be less likely to trust your brand and buy your products or services. A study has shown that among online consumers, the perception of product quality and the intention to purchase the product is determined by their perception of the company’s credibility. So how can you build credibility for your business? Read on to find out.
How to Post a Physical Address Safely
One of the best ways to build credibility for your small online business is by having a physical address. That shows potential customers that you’re a real, legitimate business — not just some fly-by-night operation.
Of course, you don’t want to just post your home address on your website or social media pages. That could be dangerous, making you a target for thieves or other criminals. Instead, you can use a private P.O. box. That will provide you with a physical address, unlike a traditional P.O. box, without having to disclose your home address. Choose a private mailbox service that also accepts packages for you, so you can use it for any product returns.
How to Create a Credible Online Presence
In addition to having a physical address, your business must create a credible online presence. You can do this in several ways, such as the following.
Build a Professional Website
Your website should have a clean and visually attractive design, easy-to-navigate menus, and well-written, easy-to-read content with complete information. It must be optimized for mobile in addition to laptops and desktop P.C.s and must load fast on all these. It must also assure visitors that their privacy and security are fully protected. Payments for purchases must be easy and quick. If you’re not a web designer or developer, hire a professional to create a website for you that meets these criteria. A study has shown that these attributes are what online consumers seek from an online business website.
Use Social Media Wisely
Social media can be a great way to connect with potential and current customers – but only if you use it wisely. Avoid using social media platforms to post personal information or vent about your day-to-day frustrations. Instead, use them to post interesting and useful content related to your business, such as blog posts, infographics, or images. You should also take the time to interact with customers who comment on your posts.
Make Sure Your Email Address is Professional
Your email address is another important part of your online presence. Avoid using a personal email address for your business correspondence — you want customers to take you seriously. Instead, use a professional email address that includes your business name. For example, if your business is called “ XYZ Widgets,” your email address should be like “info@xyzwidgets.com.”
How to Build Trust with Customers
Of course, having a credible online presence is only part of the equation. You also need to build trust with your customers to overcome their skepticism about a business they do not know much about. You can use several strategies, such as the following.
Be Transparent
Customers appreciate businesses that are transparent about their practices. If something about your business could potentially turn customers off, such as using certain chemicals in your product manufacturing process, be upfront about it. Customers will respect your honesty and may be more likely to do business with you.
Provide Excellent Customer Service
Always provide excellent customer service. That means responding to customer inquiries promptly, being polite and helpful, and going above and beyond to resolve any issues they may have. Have a convenient return and refund process if this applies to your business. By providing great customer service, you’ll show your customers that you’re a business they can trust.
Offer a Money-Back Guarantee
One great way to build trust with your customers is by offering a money-back guarantee on your products or services. This shows customers that you’re confident in what you’re selling and that you’re willing to stand behind it. This takes away their risk of doing business with you and makes them more likely to take the plunge.
Maintain Your Business Credibility Over Time
Once you’ve established your business credibility, it’s important to maintain it over time. You can do this by continuing to provide excellent customer service, being transparent with your customers, and offering a money-back guarantee. You should also keep your website and social media platforms up-to-date with fresh content to show customers that your business is still active.
By following these tips, you can build and maintain credibility for your small online business. This will help you attract and retain more customers and grow your business exponentially.
