It pays to be perceived as an expert. Whether you’re a landscaper, an accountant, a lawyer, or somewhere in between, establishing your expertise will help you to become more profitable and to grow your business.
Why?
Because consumers prefer to do business with an expert. And they’re willing to pay a premium for it.
(Think of it this way – if you just moved into a new city and you’re choosing a new family dentist, who would you prefer, the recognized expert or a nondescript competitor? All other things being equal, of course you’ll choose the expert.)
So the question today is, how can you build your own credibility and establish yourself as an expert in your market? Your social media presence can play a key role. Specifically:
1) Upgrade (or create) your LinkedIn profile so that it reflects your expertise. If you don’t have a LinkedIn profile, it’s time to create one. (If you need help getting started, let us know.) If you do, take another look at it. Is your profile picture professional and appropriate? Have you filled out your profile with your past experience? Is your summary well-written, and does it position you as an expert? Have you received endorsements and testimonials?
2) Make sure your Twitter profile and Facebook business page (if you have one) are professional and well-branded. While Twitter and Facebook are less formal than LinkedIn, you and your business must still be presented professionally. Your company colors and logo should be incorporated if possible.
3) Use social media to share articles and breaking news relating to your industry. Consumers want to know that you’re on the cutting edge. If you’re a tax accountant, and congress passes a law that will impact your clients, share it! Even better, add some brief commentary explaining the repercussions for your clients.
4) Use your social media presence to share tips and information with your audience. If you can provide valuable information for your fans and followers, they’ll come to see you as an expert—even if they’re not yet a client. As a dentist, for instance, you could share an “Oral Hygiene Tip of the Week” where you give your readers tips for a brighter, healthier smile.
5) Use your social media presence to publicize blog entries, articles, and other content you’ve created. In addition to sharing content and news created by others, if you have a blog or regularly publish articles online, use your social media presence to publicize them. Few things establish expertise as effectively as authoritative writing—particularly if you can take complicated issues and break them down into plain English that your audience can understand.
Questions or comments? Get in touch with us today to learn more!
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