subject: Is Your Website Design Trustworthy? [print this page] We do business with people we trust that much is a given. So how do you gain a visitors trust when they arrive at your website? After all, they cant look you in the eye, shake your hand or sit in your office! Your website design says a lot about your business. However, companies most often focus on how young, fresh and 2.0 theyre websites look, rather than how credible and trustworthy they are. Heres how to make sure youd do business with your web design.
1)Professional Web Design
Your website design must convey an air of professionalism and credibility. Poor quality web design leaves the visitor with serious questions about the quality of the company, their products and their services.
2)A Detailed Website About Us Section
Dont keep your websites visitors at a distance let them really get to know you. Your websites About Us section should reflect the character of your company. Team Bios let visitors know your people. A company history lets them know where youve come from. Company Vision lets them know where youre going. Company Values let them know what you stand for.
3)Guarantee It!
Nothing sets people at ease more than a guarantee how can you structure your offer so the visitor has nothing to lose? Minimise their risk and gain their trust.
4)Partnerships
Do you have partnerships with well known and respected brands? Are you an authorised distributor or reseller? An official sponsor or supplier? Ask permission to use their logos and branding on your website and let your visitors know you partner with the best.
5)Testimonials
Testimonials are widely used on websites, but there is always the chance theyre not authentic. To ensure they are perceived as genuine, include the website address, image of the person giving the testimonial, or better yet, film a video testimonial.
6)Case Studies
Case studies are great to showcase the challenges your clients have faced, and how your service solved their problem. Visitors may see your customers problems reflect their own. This is a great way to build empathy with your visitors.
People like to know theyre dealing with an upfront company who is open about its terms. Publishing these on your website give visitors confidence - they know what theyre signing up for when they do business with you.
8)Blog
A blog is a great tool to become a thought leader in your field. Write articles and blog posts that show your expertise and experience in your field. People like to deal with knowledgeable companies. Become a trusted source of valuable information your visitors will return to your website again and again.
9)Professional Certifications
Are you a member of a professional association? Have you or your company achieved a certified quality standard (Master Builder etc)? These certifications convey quality and credibility to visitors.
10)Video
Used well, having a video of a key team member explaining your companys services or products can be incredibly compelling for visitors. The internet can feel impersonal, so someone talking directly to the visitor adds a much-needed human element to their online experience.
Remember, if they dont trust you, they wont do business with you. Its as true on the internet as it is in the retail shop, the office, or the showroom. I hope these ideas will bring a new level of trust and credibility to your website.
