Does Your Business Look Like A Scam?

Why Credibility is Your First Business Strategy

Would you trust an online business with your credit card if its website was riddled with spelling mistakes? Would you reply to an unsolicited offer from a business using a generic Gmail address?

Probably not.

These are natural red flags. When potential clients encounter businesses with poor online presence - missing websites, inactive social media, or no reviews - they often take their interests elsewhere. In a competitive marketplace, that can mean the end of a potential sale before it ever starts.

Why First Impressions Matter

One of the toughest challenges for new entrepreneurs is building credibility. In the early 2000s, platforms like Craigslist and later Facebook Marketplace allowed many to grow just by riding on the trust people had in those platforms. Today, standing out requires more. Consumers expect businesses to look legitimate, sound professional, and be accessible. If you don't meet those expectations, they'll go elsewhere, often instantly.

Real Life Example

Here's a screenshot of a text conversation I had with a supposed company that approached one of my b2b companies. They had a questionable website, no public records, and clear contact details - just a vague pitch. No one answered the phone when calling the number they texted from. It raised red flags immediately. People often don't think about legitimacy until it's their own money, time, or business at risk.

My Approach to Professional Credibility

When you're trying to move your business forward, first impressions matter. That means presenting yourself professionally from the very beginning:

• Use a branded domain name and custom email address

• List a dedicated business phone number

• Make sure your business is reachable and has an established digital footprint

• Register your legal structure (LLC, INC., etc.) with your city and state

• Showcase real reviews or testimonials from your clients

• Create a way for customers to contact a real person

Even it you primarily operate through social platforms like Instagram, Facebook, or Etsy, a custom domain and email show commitment and signal to customers that you're invested in what you do.

Tools I Recommend

For my own businesses, I use Wix to:

• Purchase domain names

• Build customizable websites

• Allow clients to make edits themselves without needing a developer

In our experience, Wix strikes the right balance of affordability, customization, and user-friendliness, making it ideal for entrepreneurs, ministries, and personal brands.

Why This Matters

Trust is Everything!

Especially with first-time clients, a clean and credible digital presence can be the deciding factor between booking a client and losing them. If you're just getting started or want help leveling up your business presence, we're here to help.

Contact us for a free consultation, and let's build your credibility together.