Let’s face it, in a world full of knockoffs like Temu, Shein, and other brands that make us question their credibility, it takes a lot for us to bring trust to the table. Even with traditional brands like McDonald’s, Subway, and X (fmk as Twitter), we are struggling to find the transparency that once was. So, as a brand and as a person, how can we build that interpersonal trust and why does it matter?
Building trust and credibility in both personal and professional branding is essential for long-term success. Trusting those on your team, those who supervise, and those we supervise, makes us want to continue that teamwork and that connectivity. How many times have you wanted to prolong a relationship with someone who is two-faced, untrustworthy, or even mildly aloof? These days, millennials won’t even answer the phone if it isn’t a trusted number.
7 ways to establish Personal and Brand Credibility
Let’s explore a couple of ways to boost personal and professional branding, and create a brand that people want to bring into the fold.
1. Be Authentic and Transparent
People value authenticity and are more likely to trust someone who is genuine. Being transparent in your actions, decisions, and communication helps build a reputation for honesty and integrity.
How to Implement: Share both successes and setbacks. For example, if you’re starting a new venture or project, be open about challenges you’re facing and how you’re addressing them. This builds relatability and credibility.
2. Consistently Deliver Value
Consistency shows reliability. When you consistently offer value, whether through knowledge sharing, helpful resources, or solutions, you demonstrate your expertise and trustworthiness.
How to Implement: Whether it’s through blogs, social media posts, or one-on-one conversations, consistently provide valuable insights or practical tips related to your field. It could also be through volunteer work or offering free consultations to help others.
3. Showcase Testimonials and Social Proof
People trust what others say about you. Social proof, such as testimonials, case studies, or reviews, can validate your skills, reliability, and trustworthiness.
How to Implement: Ask satisfied clients, colleagues, or mentors to share positive experiences in writing or on social media. Use these testimonials to create credibility on your website, LinkedIn profile, or portfolio.
4. Demonstrate Expertise through Thought Leadership
Sharing expert insights positions you as a leader in your field and helps establish your credibility. By providing valuable knowledge, you show that you’re competent and knowledgeable.
How to Implement: Publish articles, host webinars, speak at events, or engage in online discussions. Focus on addressing relevant industry challenges, offering solutions, and sharing your personal experiences.
5. Engage with Your Audience
Building trust requires ongoing engagement. Responding to questions, comments, or messages demonstrates that you value others’ input and are approachable.
How to Implement: Be active on social media, attend networking events, and participate in discussions. Always respond politely and thoughtfully to feedback, whether it’s positive or negative.
6. Maintain Professional Integrity
Integrity in business and personal conduct is non-negotiable. Upholding ethical standards and sticking to your values ensures you are seen as reliable and trustworthy.
How to Implement: Always follow through on your commitments, keep confidential matters private, and be honest in all your interactions. Your actions should consistently align with your stated values.
7. Be Accountable and Admit Mistakes
No one is perfect, but how you handle mistakes speaks volumes about your character. Taking responsibility for errors and learning from them shows maturity and accountability.
How to Implement: If you make a mistake, acknowledge it openly, explain what went wrong, and share what you are doing to correct it. People appreciate the humility and commitment to growth.
Finding Open Doors
Your reputation can open doors, turn heads, and create a network of those that will preferably add to that branding. As a trusted professional brand, you will attract better candidates, partnerships, and customers. As a trusted personal brand, you will attract better offers, better teammates, and the occasional ‘hater’, but that just means that you are doing something right. As always, consistency is the key when it comes to messaging, so stay on brand, stay on mission, and don’t ever take the easy ‘left’, or the difficult ‘right’.
