THREE WAYS TO BUILD CREDIBILITY ONLINE STARTING TODAY

Your great-aunt discovered Facebook last year, and since then her status updates have been a steady stream of “1 like = 1 prayer” and “Who will share this post?” and fake or just plain factually wrong blog posts masquerading as journalism.

And it’s not just “news” that falls victim to this, all industries are impacted.  Your own news stream is probably flooded with questionable sources, inflammatory wording and just flat out wrong information on everything from medical advice to “life-hacks” to scientific studies.

How do you rise above the click-bait and become a credible source?  Here are 3 quick things you can start doing today to make your brand credible online:

Be Involved:  If you’re at the top of your company, you should have a social media presence.  CEO’s should be involved, don’t just let your “social media” guys take hold of the on-line reigns, get in on it yourself.  According to eMarketer, 82% of buyers said they trust a company more if the CEO uses social media.  And it makes sense, giving your audience a chance to learn more about you and your company –  experiencing you and your values first hand.

Respond to Complaints:  If you have a few bad reviews on Facebook, respond to them.  Don’t just let the complaints live there unanswered; they may take on a life of their own.  But addressing public complaints openly and professionally your audience will see how you handle problems.  Often times those negative reviews can be turned into positive testimonials.

Be Aware: Use your company account to show your audience how much you care about the community.  Being Socially aware is a wonderful way to build trust and your brand at the same time.  Show off community partnerships and projects, in a world of negativity, you can be the positive news in their feed.

Sometimes rising “above it all” means actually being above it all.  If you want your brand to be a steady and credible voice on-line then your brand must be steady and credible period.  Examine your company’s values, talk to your employees and know who you are trying to reach; from here you will find your brand’s voice.  Then it’s a matter of knowing how and when to use it.

On June 22 we are conducting a webinar that will guide you through becoming a credible resource.  Not just on-line, but to your clients, your industry and yourself.  You are expected to be responsible and trustworthy, we will help you keep those promises.  Sign up here.