If a consumer doesn’t trust any aspect of your business, no matter how big or small, one should expect them to move on to another business they do trust. People are increasingly aware of how vulnerable their data is and just how much havoc can be wreaked on their financials after a breach. Even some businesses that, in reality, are completely secure, can betray themselves by not providing an air of trustworthiness at each distinct part of the user experience.
To ensure trust remains high, and people continue to use any given service, these tips should be followed:
Have a Modern, Up-to-Date Website
Web design has come a long way since the early 2000s. If your site looks like it’s stuck in the past, there’s a good chance customers will think your security measures are the same. Look at modern websites that are performing well and see how they present themselves, as these are the best examples of what a trustworthy site should look like. The site should be fast and sleek-looking, representing the modernity on offer from your business.
Use Trusted Payment Processors
Consumers are now much more discerning with who they trust with their online information. Whenever you capture payment information, make sure you’re using a worthwhile payment processor (click here for an example) and also make sure to advertise this fact prominently. People want to know that their information is encrypted and secure, so it won’t fall into the wrong hands.
Provide Truthful, Worthwhile Information
One of the most common issues faced by online businesses is that they are simply trying too hard to sell themselves online in a way that comes off as disingenuous to any potential customers. The average online consumer is now much more educated than they were previously, and they are likely to check multiple sources before making a purchase.
If the information on your site is categorically untrue or even strategically misleading, once a reader clues into it, they will likely leave your site for good since there’s no telling where else you haven’t been completely truthful. Conversely, if you provide worthwhile information they can’t find anywhere else, they will begin to see you as an authority and start using you exclusively.
Be Consistent
Once you’ve taken a certain position on a topic or start to give information a certain way, it’s best to remain as consistent as possible so people can get an idea of who you are and where your values lie. Keep your tone consistent throughout the entire site. If you’re serious, stay serious. If you’re casual, stay casual. This way, your customers can start to get a feel for your brand, and then decide if it’s one they would like to do business with.
Final Words
Without trust, your online business doesn’t have much else going for it. The simple fact is that bad websites are a dime a dozen, while a genuinely worthwhile site comes along much less frequently. This is, in part, why there has been a major consolidation of the Internet in recent years where fewer and fewer sites are being visited because people like to stick with sites they know operate in an above-board fashion. If you’re ever at a loss for how to increase the trust factor of your own site, look at their examples, and see where you may be lacking.