How to build your credibility with Social Media

The vast world of social media can be overwhelming for the average user. With so many features available, navigating this uncharted territory can appear to be a complex endeavor. While seemingly tedious, the pay-off of a strong social media presence holds tremendous power.

In the world of business, one-on-one connections are a necessary part of building a relationship. Seeing clients face-to-face, engaging in open discussions with them and building a rapport are the typical driving forces leading to a successful relationship. So why social media? How can a realm that is founded on virtual interactions, rather than in-person connections, help you make a sale? It all boils down to trust.

The most common mistake with social media marketing goals is being fooled into thinking that engaging in social networking will be the only step a professional needs to take in order to make a sale. Sure, an influential social brand may eventually lead to a satisfied customer, however, social media for business is not about selling. It’s about building trust with your customers. So how can you build that trust?

Building trust is different for everyone, depending on the circumstances. When it comes to building trust with an audience, such as your social media audience, there are a few key steps to take into account.

1. Quality over quantity
The first way to build trust with your audience through social media is by posting quality content that teaches and informs your following. Think about when you visit the Facebook page of a business. What are you looking for? Sure you may be interested in their pictures and you might take a look at their reviews, but aside from that, you are looking for information. You want to be more informed about this business. Put yourself in the shoes of your customers- what would they be looking for when they come to your page? What interesting information about your service or product can you share with them?

2. Cultivate a rapport
The best way to build a good rapport is to engage with your audience. Make it a daily effort to check all of your social channel's notifications. If a follower asks a question, answer it. If someone likes your photo or shares your photo, thank them. Just like a normal face-to-face relationship, you have to nurture it by communication. 

3. Stay up to date
If you want your audience to seriously trust you, you need to be overly educated on the product or service you are trying to sell them. Make sure you are reading up on the latest news stories regarding your product as well as the most recent trends. With the constant evolvement of technology- everything is changing in the blink of an eye. Don't be left in the dark.

4. Utilize content management systems
For those of you that are busy bees in the workforce, there are plenty of options to keep you in the social scene. Content management systems and social media managers are just a few ideas to help you stay organized. Your audience loves to see an updated social media network and is even more smitten with content that is relevant at the time. Utilizing CMS's and social media managers will enable you to have consistent content across the boards. 

When it comes to building trust through a social media network, all it takes is a little bit of time and effort on your part. Don't treat your audience like robots, treat them like real human beings that are actually interested in what you're trying to sell. By providing them with informative, relevant information and taking the time to engage with them, it shouldn't take long to build a trusting relationship between the two of you.