Sometimes, doing business or making contacts online is a perilous endeavor. With DIY site builders and more affordable, accessible technology, anyone can put up a professional-looking website and claim a certain level of success or expertise.
When people are looking for products or information, they count on finding clues to a provider’s ability or authority so that they can connect with confidence.
What is Authority and Why do You Need it?
Whether you’re a member in good standing of a prestigious professional association or you’re a card carrying member of the BBB with an A+ rating based on 30 reviews, awards and commendations help you stand out as a leader in your field. Acknowledging something that earns you bragging rights is not the same as bragging.
True authority and authenticity shine through in the way you present yourself and the kind of social proof you generate. You’re confidently asserting that doing business with you brings a high level of commitment, professionalism, and trust.
Looking for information about search engine authority? Make sure to read the following:
Backing your reputation up with signals and symbols, such as certifications, ratings, and digital badges provides a tangible representation of your legitimacy and professionalism. Having a high-authority domain doesn’t just infuse your customers and leads with confidence in your capabilities. It also affects how Google evaluates and ranks your website, driving more traffic to your pages.
But, how do you build authority, and what are some ways that you can convey your expertise to the masses? Read on to learn more.
5 Authority-Building Practices
From full press releases to publicly owning your badges and posting them on your website, there is a multitude of ways that you can build and broadcast your authority to loyal customers and leads alike.
1. Increase your visibility.
Have you ever been at a conference or gathering and noticed that certain people seem to draw a crowd or participate in every conversation? They just seem to radiate confidence and leadership.
You can create this same sort of magnetism and air of authority online by increasing your visibility and the quality of your interactions. Join professional forums and social media groups related to your industry or niche, guest post on high-authority websites, and collaborate on podcasts or host your own.
2. Put yourself in the running.
Awards from trade groups, professional associations, and industry-related organizations all serve to raise your profile and demonstrate your authority. Put yourself in the running for such honors whenever possible, and don’t be afraid to broadcast your achievements on your website and social media platforms.
3. Create content.
Adding a blog or knowledge base to your website, authoring an article or blog post for an industry publication, and creating an online conference, webinar, or course are all ways to add value and demonstrate your authority. User-created content like video, images, and testimonials add social proof to the mix and boost your authority rating.
4. Don’t be afraid to toot your own horn.
Have you gained a certification? Received an industry award or recognition? Did your company get a mention on a major platform or news outlet? These are the kinds of things the public needs to know. Draft a press release and send it to every relevant publication and news outlet. How many times have you earned a badge as a contributor or become verified on a social platform? For instance, Level343 LLC has been recognised as one of Top 30 Small Business SEO Companies by DesignRush, as well as the one of the top 30 local SEO companies according to UpCity.
Collect and display your digital badges wherever possible. People visiting your website want to see that you’re A+ rated by the BBB and TrustPilot verified.
5. Be thorough and consistent.
How many times have you looked up a business on Yelp or Google My Business and found the information blank? Your authority and trust levels will improve by the simple act of claiming professional listings on such platforms, completely filling out all social media and networking profiles, and making sure that all of your brand mentions and information are consistent and up to date.
Final Thoughts
Consumers are looking for businesses that can provide solutions or make their lives better in some way. Adding authority signals to your website and marketing platforms tells prospects that you’re a company that goes a step beyond to provide added value to everything you do. While there’s a fine line between showing authority signals and being chintzy, don’t be afraid to show your trophy case.
Does your company have an achievement or credential to celebrate? Use some of the methods outlined above to shine a light on your accomplishments.
