Credibility is the foundation of all successful businesses and it takes time and effort to build trust and credibility with your customers, vendors and business partners. Customers want to know that they can rely on the products and services they purchase, vendors want to know they can count on your business to pay its bills on time and business partners want to know they can build solid, long-term relationships with you.
Like respect, credibility has to be earned. It doesn't happen overnight and if you don't spend time maintaining that trust, your business can be vulnerable to losing customers to competitors. Here are several great ways to build trustworthiness in your business and brand:
Be a Great Communicator
Your brand is special and unique. You need to be able communicate your vision and brand message to your customers through your sales and marketing activities. Be sure you communicate clearly and often so that customers are reminded what sets you apart from the competition. Also ask customers for feedback, collect and share testimonials and use this information to improve your business.
Be sure to communicate your vision with employees and others involved in the operations of your business as well. Make sure they feel a part of team, acknowledge their efforts and listen to their ideas and concerns. You will gain invaluable insight if you practice this daily.
Follow Through
In order to build trust, you must practice what you preach. Above all, this means being honest and trustworthy in all of your dealings with customers, vendors, and employees. Make sure your actions align with your vision and don't promise more than you can deliver. Let your customers know they are your highest priority and address their concerns or issues promptly. The best way to lose a customer is to fail to meet their expectations.
Stay Objective
Small business owners are passionate about their brand and their business. However, don't let enthusiasm cloud your judgment when it comes to running your business. Reach out to team members and advisors to get objective feedback and consider it carefully before making major decisions. Learn to disconnect from the daily grind by taking time for quiet reflection on a regular basis - you will be surprised how much easier decisions become when your mind is clear.