One of the most vital components of online marketing is creating a trustworthy reputation for your business.

In the offline world, it's easy - customers can meet you, talk to you and get to know you.  But online, it's easier for dodgy companies to hide behind their website.  That means it's important to get your name out there and educate people.

Take a look at the diagram below.  It segments a customer's search process into various areas.  They'll start from the left; wanting to find you.  Once they've done that, they want to learn more about you - so they'll check your reputation by looking for reviews and customer experiences.  Once they've done that, they may move on to looking for special offers and deals. 



It's vital that you react to this process by optimising your website and making use of other tools, so that potential customers can find all the information they need.

Here are a few quick tips: 

• Make sure customers can easily get in touch through channels like Facebook and Twitter
• Use business forums or LinkedIn, and post friendly and helpful advice not sales spam
• Ask customers to leave you reviews on Google Maps, and sites like Yelp and Qype

If you want learn more about all this, attend our free webinar on Wednesday 24th - Generate a Buzz with Reviews and Recommendations.  We'll be talking about the essence of creating a great, trustworthy presence on the web.  

You can register here.  Space is limited, so be quick!