Build Your Likeability Factor

Written by Doreen Dilger, The Home Based Business Coach

It’s a behavioral fact, we buy from people and companies that we like. Think about the last time you made a purchase. Chances are, one of the reasons you forked over your hard earned cash is because you liked the retailer or service provider. You probably trusted them and considered them to be knowledgeable as well.

It doesn’t matter if you’re buying shoes or a new house, likeability matters. As a home based business owner the majority of your likeability needs to be communicated through your online interactions including your content. In fact, your content and your marketing copy are the biggest likeability building assets. Let’s take a look at some tips and steps to increase your likeability.

·         Be Nice:  It sounds so simple, doesn’t it? You’re a nice person and you’re nice online. However, it’s also easy to be misunderstood online. One online discussion or conversation can make you appear to be unkind even when you didn’t intend your words to be received that way. It’s essential to be careful not only of what you say online but also how you say it. If you’re unsure of whether you should say something, the answer is probably not. Being nice online also means being grateful, saying please and thank you, and by recognizing those who interact with you. Even if you disagree with what someone has to say on your blog for example, it’s important to recognize their feedback and to respond with kindness.

·         Be the Real You:  You are likeable just as you are. There’s no need to try to create a persona or to be someone that you’re not. It’s much easier to connect with your audience and to communicate your personality when you’re being authentic. That means talking to people though your content and online interactions the way you would in person.

·         Share Your Face:  As human beings we connect with faces. You don’t have to be a super model. In fact, it’s much easier to connect with business owners when they look like real people. Share your photo on you r website, on your social media pages and also in the byline or footer of your articles. Share your photo in your email messages and any other communications you have with your prospects and customers. And smile.

There are other steps you can take to build likeability as well. Share experiences online, engage in or initiate conversations, and remember that the majority of online marketing is about building relationships.