Elevating Credibility - Part 1: A Guide for Business Leaders and Owners

In today's competitive business landscape, credibility is a currency that can make or break a company. Coming to you as part of #elevateNovember, this article mentions some of the ideas that I explore on our video training with Fur Wale.?

Building and maintaining credibility is essential for gaining the trust and confidence of clients, partners, and stakeholders. This article will delve into the key strategies for elevating credibility for business leaders and owners, emphasising the importance of third party credibility, best practice content and authenticity in the pursuit of success.

Introduction

Credibility is the cornerstone of any successful business. It's the intangible asset that separates the trusted leaders from the rest. In this article, we will explore the strategies and practices that business leaders and owners can implement to elevate their credibility in the eyes of their audience.

1. The Power of Strong Video Testimonials

Building Trust Through Real-life Experiences

Video testimonials offer a powerful way to showcase real experiences and satisfied clients. They provide a human touch to your brand, allowing potential clients to connect emotionally with the success stories of others. Unlike written testimonials, videos are ‘more trustworthy’ because you can see the client speak about their experience. When you leverage video testimonials in your sales process, you can help a new prospect see what’s possible in working with you, through third party validation.?

The key to a show stopping testimonial is to ask the right questions. One of our modules in the More Clients Now 8 week program focuses on getting the best possible answers from your client, by allowing them to remember how you worked together and elaborate on their experience in a way that helps you to shine - given that you gave the client a great experience :)?

Click this testimonial to see an example of how a client's words can 'sell for you'.

2. Content Tailored to Your Ideal Client

Creating a Connection with Your Audience

One-size-fits-all content often falls short in the quest for credibility. Understanding your ideal client's needs, pain points, and aspirations allows you to create content that resonates deeply and establishes a strong connection.

My clients seek to create authority in their own business, and to find ways to develop their credibility as a business owner. This article is designed to assist my potential clients to have an action list so that they can develop that authority. Of course, if you have questions, reach out to me or comment below and I’ll do my best to help you achieve the credibility you seek.??

3. Reliability: Doing What You Say, When You Say

Consistency as a Pillar of Credibility

Reliability is the bedrock of trust. When you consistently deliver on promises and commitments, you instill confidence in your stakeholders. This reliability becomes a testament to your credibility. Of course, nobody can be 100% on time every time. However, when this is the case, let your client know immediately, so that you can put in place a plan of action to create a credible outcome.?

My clients tell me that being in communication does overcome almost every hurdle when it comes to being seen as credible in the eyes of their client.?

4. Transparent Communication in Adversity

Maintaining Trust in Challenging Times

In moments of adversity, transparent communication is crucial. Addressing challenges openly and honestly, and providing clear solutions, demonstrates a commitment to maintaining trust even in difficult situations.

Last year, I had a baker's cyst rupture, which meant a high level of pain and very strong pain killers were needed. To prevent excessive downtime, I allowed the pain medication to have gaps, where I was in pain but able to continue to work. Ideally, I would have a person to replace me when this happens, and so I have since employed an EA who can be available when I am not.?

The main thing to remember in maintaining credibility is that you don’t allow external circumstances to derail your day, and that you create backup systems in the unlikely event that something challenges you.?

5. Authenticity Over Perfection

The Value of Genuine Commitment

Credibility isn't about presenting a facade of perfection. It's about authentically committing to doing work that you excel at. Embracing your strengths and weaknesses builds trust and fosters genuine connections.

Sometimes this means going above and beyond for a client in need - and while it’s important to maintain a healthy work life balance, I find that when my client is in need emotionally, or has a concern, jumping on a quick call is far better than letting them stew with an unanswered concern.?

I also encourage you to check your burnout and that of your client. When you are burnt out, you can’t work with commitment, and when your client is burnt out, you can’t expect them to push through by loading them up with tasks. Here’s a link to a handy test that I’ve found helpful for myself and my clients.??

Burn out test

6. Leveraging Expertise for Credibility

Being Exceptional at What You Do

Being an expert in your field speaks volumes about your credibility. Continuously honing your skills and staying at the forefront of industry trends reinforces your position as a trusted authority.

My advice is to constantly check new tools in the marketplace and undertake training and attend events that will enhance your knowledge of the latest tools that your clients may want to access. Within my training, I show people how to leverage social media, which is now seeing my client Mike gain clients through Linkedin outreach, in a way he’d never thought of before. This has seen him already receive more business than he paid for the course - an immediate ROI may be just around the corner, so keep up to date with the latest tools in your industry and that of your clients.?

While I sit most comfortably in the areas of ideation, sales training and refining communication clarity, I have also developed knowledge and a team that I can leverage for sales process refinement, including automation, database creation and management (CRM) and how to leverage websites for SEO and eye-catching CRO (conversion rate optimisation) on landing pages.?

You may need to go somewhat outside your comfort zone to truly deliver exceptional results, but you can also develop a network of reliable experts that you refer clients to when the need arises. It is always not only what you know, but who you know that makes a difference to your clients outcome.

Conclusion

Elevating credibility is an ongoing journey that requires dedication, authenticity, and a commitment to excellence. By implementing the strategies outlined in this article, business leaders and owners can fortify their credibility and pave the way for sustained success.

Part 2 has a further 6 steps to help you elevate your credibility, so watch for that early next week.

Meanwhile, if you would like to find out how to elevate your business growth, we would love to see how we can add value to you. Book a complimentary time and let's chat .