According to the Urban Dictionary, “street cred” refers to “commanding a level of respect in an urban environment due to experience in or knowledge of issues affecting those environments.” How does this apply to your business?
Well, if you think of your niche as “your street” or your own “urban environment,” when you understand the issues affecting that environment thoroughly and can demonstrate that understanding to others, you will definitely command a certain level of respect within your niche, and related niches, establishing yourself as an expert in your field.
Here are several ways in which you can earn your “street cred” when it comes to understanding the issues in your niche and being an expert:
- Publish Great Content: Great content is what sets you apart from the crowd. Your credibility is enhanced by your content. Take a stand, show your opinions,illustrate your knowledge and expertise. Disrupt the status quo a little, at least every now and then, just to get some attention. Trust me, this works.
- Charge Enough: Charging the right amount is important. When you charge too little, you are minimizing your worth, and may even be making clients and potential clients wonder if you really are the best, because the best is usually expensive. With that said, your pricing strategy will be determined by your experience as well as your confidence, and sales skills. Find the balance. The right amount will leave you with happy clients who are motivated to succeed and get a return on their investment, and, who will give you testimonials and recommend you to their friends and colleagues.
- Strive for Visibility: It is critical that you promote your content in as many ways as possible. Many marketers make the mistake of publishing content but then failing to promote it consistently and hoping it is magically found. Social media is great for exposure. Consider speaking events—attending and presenting can both help you! Write articles and submit them to local and online publications. There are tons of great ways to get exposure, be creative and put yourself out there.
- Publish Testimonials: Testimonials are critical for generating new leads and have been proven to influence buyers and increase sales. When you have satisfied customers and clients, ask them if they would be willing to write a testimonial for you to post on your website. Tell them what’s in it for them, exposure, visibility, inspiration to others, etc. Be honest and let them know that it would also help you build your business. The more testimonials your business and service has, the more positive exposure and traction you will receive. Use them on your website, in newsletters, in email signature lines and press releases. If you can get any video testimonials, this is even better.
Earning credibility and establishing yourself as an authority in your niche is very important as you are building your business and generating new leads. People want to work with the best, and when you show them that you are the best, they will want to work with you. Take the time to earn your street cred, and your business will grow faster.