Which is to say, I think we’re all about equally credible.

Anything beyond that is perception, as others here have noted–which comes from self-marketing, not actual credentials. Why do we buy the most expensive fabric softener on the shelf? Because it looks the prettiest.

No need for phone numbers (especially if you are not selling anything) and if you do not want to publish your email, it is easy to use a Contact form page.

People like to hide behind the computer screen.

I guess that means provide whatever you can to your audience, be authentic and keep communicating.

Back to the discussion. Several times in my life, I have been perceived to be an expert on something, either because my audience knew less about it, or the presentation. In a way, I was, but I always knew people in my field who were much better, or more knowledgeable than I was.

These areas that come to mind have been cake decorating, (teaching, and doing wedding cakes), director of youth (in a church setting), and at the present, real estate investing. Though I have a degree of expertise in these areas, I am far from what I consider an expert, but I have been able to meet a need in any of those areas for some people, thus was considered an expert.

It’s also a great example of how cutting corners on your site design and development can cost you in the long run.

Hence actual expertise is not related to the credibility factor of a web site (as the original posting her might have us believe). Instead, it is about perceived expertise – and that’s altogether different.

By the way, Darren, I’m sure you are a real expert as well….!

Focus on offering something of value to your readers

Talk about what you know – it allows you to write with more confidence, helps to keep your feet on the ground, sound credible, maintain rapport with your readers.

It would be interesting to know what reader perceptions of credibility are when asked to compare blogging and static sites…?

Joanna

I also believe people can spot a fake very quickly. With proven credibility comes an unblemished and excellent reputation which I feel is very important.

1) To have quality information
2) To be trueful
3) To interact with your readers

Personalizing your blog so that you do openly discuss things with your readers is important and shows you care about how your blog is perceived, and its not just your way to get some words out.

Also, if you gain references from others to help demonstrate your own blogs content through reference, that is more valuable than doing it yourself. So, posting to others’ sites and having references back to your own original ideas, gains a lot of respect and credibility with others.

I believe not credible blogs can only survive so long…

In order for a blog to be truly credible, it must be written in an authoritative voice and have something unique to bring to the blogosphere. So many blogs try to replicate something that has been successful, that they will never have their own identity, never mind credibility.

We agree with Chris about a blog posting obvious affiliate review products so that they can make a quick buck. A blog that does this quickly loses credibility with us as they certainly appear to be in it for all the wrong reasons.

A credible blog comes from an author that is genuine and passionate about what they blog about. Find a subject of great interest for yourself, write unique, compelling posts, and your audience will grow and you will become a trusted, credible source.

Marketing studies have shown that people usually come to purchase a product/service through word of mouth, i.e. the direct recommendations of someone they trust.

The approval and patronage of others can be used to your advantage on websites. I covered this issue of building credibility for your blog or website in an old article of mine:

http://www.doshdosh.com/social-proof-optimization/

:)

I guess bloggers have an advantage in that they can demonstrate to readers that they are credible by being trustworthy and expert over a period of time. (Cuts both ways though as you can lose people if you’re not)

So consistency comes into it too.

I guess your site needs to be ’sticky’ enough for readers to follow in the first place but if you can write with credibility, honesty, humility over a period of time… there’ll be a stronger relationship of trust than there would have been with a traditional website.

Joanna

I agree that one should specialize in a niche and examine what your competition is doing and not doing. Don’t become another me too site, as readers will lose interest fast if they find the same articles from other sites on your blog.

Invest in a speed typing program (like Mavis Beacon) which will help speed and accuracy. Work with editors to proofread your work before posting. If you run out of things to say, hire a ghostwriter to help create an interesting article.

Post at least 3 times a week and no less than 300 words so that you can retain readers interest and keep them coming back for more.