Build your business reputation: Six online strategies to gain a customer’s trust

Your online presence is more than just a reflection of your business, it’s a key touchpoint for potential customers. It’s where first impressions are created and those first seeds of trust are sown. That’s why investing in your digital presence can make a crucial contribution in building your business reputation, even before a customer has ever contacted you.

Here are six ways to build trust in your business online.

1) Expertise on display

Showing off your know-how with insightful content can resonate with a potential audience. Blogs, webinars and guides not only showcase your expertise but also help customers (and potential customers) to make informed decisions. Whether it’s a deep dive into the latest industry trends or a simple how-to guide, your content is a window into your world. And when it comes to setting up the perfect shop window, our hosting and domain services can help you on your way.

2) A professional contact

There’s real power in a professional look. That’s why we’re going to take that domain point one step further.

Finding the right domain for your business doesn’t just have to mean an attractive-looking website. It can also mean getting your business name front and centre in your email address. Imagine if you will for a moment that your name is Bob and your business name is Bob’s fish (it’s the best we could think of at the time!).

Now compare two email addresses: bob68@hotmail.com and bob@bobsfish.com.

It’s just an example of course, but it isn’t hard to see which email address looks more professional, and therefore more trustworthy.

Now extend that elsewhere, and you can begin to see why having a dedicated landline number rather than just a mobile number, and even perhaps a PO Box if you’re working from home can start to elevate your business in the opinions of potential customers. (By the way, check out our Digital Voice service if you’re considering a landline number).

3) The power of reviews

Customer feedback is invaluable. Highlighting positive reviews and responding to all comments demonstrates your commitment to customer satisfaction and continuous improvement. It’s a powerful way to build trust before the first interaction, showing prospective customers that you value their opinions and are dedicated to the service you deliver. By actively seeking out and showcasing customer reviews, you create a narrative that resonates with your audience. It’s your way of saying “We hear you, we appreciate you, and we’re striving to be the best.”

4) Authenticity matters

Being transparent about your values invites customers to connect with your brand on a personal level. Share your journey, the principles that guide your business, and the steps you’re taking to make a positive impact. While some customers won’t necessarily be interested in all that stuff, for others it can foster a deeper relationship as they see a brand that aligns with their own values and is committed to more than just profits. When you’re real with your audience, they’ll feel it – and that’s when trust starts to grow.

5) Consistent and open communication

Open lines of communication are the building blocks of creating trust in the digital world. It’s about being there when your customers need you, ready to offer support, answer questions, and provide solutions. And it’s not just about existing customers. From live chat to social media, providing helpful advice and solutions to people’s questions can make them feel valued even before they’ve ever spent any money with you. Plus, regular updates about new features and services can keep readers in the loop, making them feel valued and part of your journey.

6) Community engagement

One of the best ways to build trust is to engage with your local community, both online and offline. It shows that you care about more than just business, being a proactive member of the community, supporting local initiatives, and fostering a sense of belonging among your existing and potential customers. Think about donating your time to local charities or events and meeting your potential customers where they are.

Trust is at the heart of all business relationships. It’s what turns first-time buyers into lifelong customers. By working on these strategies, you’ll establish a credible and reliable online presence that resonates with customers – both present and future.