How Does the Distrust Americans Have in the Internet Affect Your Marketing Strategy?

Posted: Oct 21, 2012
Author: WordJack Media

A recent study by Harris Interactive found that 98% of Americans distrust information they find on the internet, citing too many advertisements and self-promotional materials, unfamiliar forums, and outdated information as the primary reasons for their cynicism. In fact, 94% of those surveyed in the poll agreed that “bad things” can happen as a result of following incorrect online information, including wasted time, computer viruses, loss of money, or damaged credibility.

So how can you overcome this stigma and develop an internet marketing strategy that ensures your potential customers can trust you? Here are a few tips:

1. Use top-notch web design. Poor website design makes people think you sell less-than-stellar products.

2. Make sure your website is user-friendly. The navigation should be logical and organized, so people can find where they want to go quickly and easily. First and foremost, make sure your contact information is prominent and that all calls and emails you receive are responded to promptly.

3. Proofread your content. Sloppy grammar and spelling are huge red flags that your company isn’t professional and can’t get things done right.

4. Use quality images. Anyone can buy low-quality stock photos, and that means the same photo of the same smiling person is on all of your competitors’ websites, too. Get some unique photos of your products and your staff members on your site to increase credibility. 

5. Make sure you have an “About Us” page. Telling people about the history of your company and how you got to where you are today makes them want to like you and to trust you.

6. Mention awards, testimonials and accreditations you have received. Don’t be afraid to show off a little bit!

7. Update your website consistently. If your last change was made in 2002, that’s a bad sign.

8. Add testimonials to your website. Good recommendations from your past and current customers are a great way to add credibility to your internet marketing strategy.

9. Guarantee security. Especially if your website has an e-commerce feature, make sure you display proper security credentials (like Verisign) and explain your security measures in detail.

10. Provide great customer service. If your customers are satisfied, they will tell their friends about you, and trust will continue to grow. Do your best to make sure each and every customer has a pleasant experience.