Since the internet pretty much rules the way we shop, it is important for websites to convey credibility to consumers. If the website doesn’t meet the expectations that we have towards the brand, or doesn’t let us learn about the company, odds are we won’t give the brand our time of day. For example, if Apple’s website didn’t have a simplistic, yet high end look, we would be confused because we know that doesn’t match their brand. So how do you create credibility?
The first thing to determine is “Do the website look as to what customers expect?” or “Does the website match what I am trying to convey?”. If the answer is no, then you need to redesign the website. When you’re designing the website, the colors and fonts need to be seamless and match across the board.
Next up, and personally most important to me, is does the website have a page to learn about the company? When you are online shopping and stumble across brands you are unaware of, you want to have the reassurance that this brand is real, and they are trying to product a usable product that will fulfil my needs. In this area there should be bios for the team members, especially the owner/CEO, description about the company, and team pictures.
The last thing I would add would be testimonials. I know personally, for products that are not routine purchases for me, I go to google and look up customer reviews. I want to know that the product that I will purchase be the product I receive and that it will work the way I want it to. If prospective consumers have questions posted or just a general response to what is posted, make sure you reply. Consumers look for companies that care about people who purchase their products.
I know this may seem unnecessary and tedious, but it establishes trust between customers with the brand. It is easy to determine which websites match the brand, and which ones gain consumers trust. Follow these few simple suggestions to gain credibility in your website.
