In the world that we live in, trust is a scarce resource. Intuitions and brands that we’ve grown up with were once relied upon, much like family members. However, the big-name scandals (such as financial institutions and banks, celebrities and sports stars) have destroyed consumer’s brand trust.
Furthermore, the digital age means that both, paradoxically, that brands have nowhere to hide, while also providing a faceless business where accountability is lost. Of course, consumer trust is hard to earn, but it’s more important than ever for the success of your business. So, what can you do to build brand trust?
What is brand trust?
Brand trust is a complex combination of a range of different character traits.
Brand trust comes from:
- Honesty and transparency
- Authenticity
- Confidence from your consumers
- Making people feel good
- No betrayal
- Respect and acknowledgement
- Interaction and association
- Understanding without preaching.
How to build brand trust
LinkedIn Influencer Naomi Simson describes trust as an equation:
Trust = (Authenticity + Ability + Actions) x Alignment
You can work out your own trust score, by scoring yourself out of ten for each attribute. The maximum score will be 300. But, what does each aspect mean?
Authenticity – How do consumers know that you are ‘real’?
Ability – Can you actually do what you say?
Actions – Does what you do line up with what you say?
Alignment – Can consumers relate to a common purpose.
1. Show values not selling points
Many brands try to sell their products and services by telling the customer why they need them. However, preaching is more likely to lead to disengagement. Customers deserve the respect to be able to choose for themselves which brand is right for them. Instead, show your customers that you have similar values, that you stand for what your customers care about.
2. Handling mistakes
Errors, poor judgement and slip-ups can happen to every business. Even issues out of your control can be bad for business. However, a business is not ruined by a mistake but how the business handles the problem. Lying and dismissing responsibility is bad for business. However, taking ownership and visibly correcting any issues can help to restore trust.
3. Glass box tactics
Every brand needs to follow a gold standard of service, and in this day and age, glass box tactics are essential. This transparency can help to show and celebrate your internal culture. This is not only crucial for ethical brands but for all brands to meet the needs of the ever-growing conscious consumer market.
4. Be prepared for the long game
Trust is not won overnight; it is earned over time. So, remain consistent, keep doing what you promise to do and stay true to your values. It is important this is carried through in every single business activity, from how you treat your employees to communicating with your potential customers. Everything you do should echo your standards.
Do you need help building trust in your brand?
Building brand trust requires more than good intentions. It requires a deliberate, strategic approach to how you present yourself to the world. If your business is struggling to foster connection, the issue often stems from a lack of strategic brand positioning.
If your messaging isn’t resonating or your values need a formalised refresh, explore our Brand Strategy services to see how we define who you are and what you stand for. If your visual identity doesn’t reflect the trust you work so hard to earn, our Brand Design services can ensure your site looks as professional as your service.
If you are ready to start the conversation, contact Liquid Creativity. As a branding agency Melbourne businesses have trusted for over 30 years, we help you align your brand identity and actions to build a business that earns long-term loyalty.
