Internet and Trust

A study by Princeton Survey Research Associates indicates, "that only 29 percent of Internet users trust Web sites that sell products or services. Compare that with the 58 percent of survey respondents what trust newspaper and television news, and the 47 percent who trust the federal government."


On the Web, your audience is skeptical - and for good reason. Overcoming the trust-factor is your single largest hurdle to success online. Here are a few things experts say will increase your site's credibility:


1. Provide your contact information up front, preferably on every page. Prospects need to know there is a real company behind the site.


2. Offer something of real value on the site, like research study, a newsletter, or a free trial. If you push to sell, without offering anything first, you'll probably lose the prospect.


3. Eliminate all typographical errors. A typo, no matter how small, will ruin your credibility with prospects online.

Web sites face a much tougher challenge than a print or television ads. Establishing trust is paramount. Don't hype the truth. Make your site appear trustworthy, honest, and believable and your results will improve.