Some of these trust-building ways can be used with the written word, in videos, and every one of them can be used in conversation building trust with almost anyone.
15 Trust Building Ways to Engage with Your Customers
1: “What can I do to help?”
This question lets others know you’re on their side. They see you as someone they can rely on. And helping them out now can make it more likely they will help you when you need it, too.
2: “Hi! You’re looking…”
Instead of, “How are you,” build a more in-depth conversation with an emotional tie by commenting on how they’re looking great, happy, rested, pleased and so forth.
3: “I trust your judgment.”
Don’t micromanage people. Instead, let them know your goal for them and then allow them to execute the plan; however, they see fit. When you give them control of their lives, it shows you trust them.
4: “I understand what you’re saying.”
You might not agree with what they’re saying, but you can still show you respect their beliefs.
5: “Can you give me a hand?”
When you admit, you’ve made a mistake, asking for someone else’s help make you seem more trustworthy to that person. In studies, they’ve found that people view those who seek their advice as more competent than those who do not seek their help.
6: “In my opinion…”
When you’re about to disagree, transition with something that seems more open than “I” statements. “Others suggest…” also works well.
7: “This is my side.”
When you start with this phrase, you’re letting others know that you acknowledge their thoughts and feelings are as valid as yours, and you’re aware they may see things differently. This works well in opinion pieces on your blog and social media, because it invites others to share what’s on their minds, too, and do it respectfully.
8: “How do you think that went?”
If you’re starting a conversation about how someone can improve, let them gauge their success by their standards. Starting with your judgments could make them clam up and be less receptive to anything you share.
9: “That was my fault.”
Mistakes don’t kill your credibility if you accept your shortcomings and show that you’re human. Imperfect people are more attractive to us. This is why you should never adopt the, “I’m the perfect guru of XYZ niche” online, but instead let your readers know about your mistakes and how you’re working to overcome them.
10: “What can I do differently?
Let others know that you are open to positive change, whether it’s changing yourself or changes you can make to help others.
11: “I think you know my friend.”
We’re attracted to people who look like us, talk like us, or have similar interests or friends. If you’re introducing yourself to someone online, mention people that you have in common.
12: “I’m all ears.”
People want you and need you to listen to them. Letting them know you’re listening is the first step. Listening is the second. You can use this online as well. “Tell me about the biggest problem you’re having in your business. I’m all ears because I want to help you.”
13: “Uh-huh, I see.”
Using non-word sounds like “em-hm” or “uh-huh” when someone is talking to you shows that you’re interested, which encourages them to trust you more. Is shows you’re paying attention and you’re interested. But don’t make more noises than what feels natural, or you’ll come off as being insincere.
14: “Sorry about the…”
A study found that people are quicker to trust people who start a conversation by apologizing for something they’re not responsible for. For example, if a Craigslist seller apologizes for the rain, people feel the person is more trustworthy than if they made a neutral comment or no comment at all. Don’t use “Sorry about that…” because it sounds less friendly.
15: “I couldn’t have done it without you.”
Giving credit where credit is due and showing your gratitude for the help received shows others that their contributions are valued. When someone helps you online, be sure to thank them and acknowledge them for what they’ve done. If appropriate, thank them privately (such as by email or phone call) and publicly (such as social media or in a blog post.)
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