You ever have one of those “I just need to look like I know what I’m doing” moments — especially when you’re trying to build trust on your website?
Back when I first started, I remember thinking that my business didn’t really feel legit yet. I didn’t have a huge following. I hadn’t hit the big revenue milestones. And every time I went to post or pitch, there was this little voice whispering, “Are you really the expert here?”
But here’s the thing — that doubt wasn’t coming from a lack of skill. It was coming from a lack of clarity around how I showed up online.
Because like it or not, your website is your first impression. And when you get it right? That trust builds fast.
Let’s talk about how to build trust on your website — even if you’re not a “household name” (yet 😉).
🎧 Prefer to listen? This post is based on Episode 20 of the Waves of Impact Podcast! Click below to tune in!
You Don’t Need 10K Followers to Look Legit
The online space makes it easy to think you’re “not ready.”
Not big enough. Not well-known enough. Not experienced enough.
But trust? That’s not built on follower count.
It’s built on how you show up — and your website is the first place that trust is gained or lost.
If you’ve ever felt like people are clicking but not converting… ghosting your inquiry forms… or saying “I’ll think about it” — your site might not be giving them the confidence they need to say yes.
Mistake #1: Thinking Your DMs Are Enough
It’s tempting to run your biz through Instagram.
But here’s the truth: Your dream clients don’t want to hire someone from a DM conversation.
They want to see that you’re real, that you’re consistent, and that you’ve done this before (or at least know what you’re doing).
Your website is where that trust gets built — not in your bio.
Mistake #2: Hiding Behind a Logo
People don’t trust faceless brands. They trust people.
I know it can feel awkward to show up as the face of your brand — especially when you’re just starting. But if your website is all colors, graphics, and stock photos… and nowhere does it say who you are or why you do what you do?
That’s a trust-breaker.
✅ Here’s The Fix: Add a photo. Share a mini story. Let people feel like they’re connecting with you, not just your brand name.
Mistake #3: Making Visitors Work Too Hard
If someone lands on your site and can’t figure out what you do, who it’s for, or how to get started… they’re not sticking around to figure it out.
Confusion kills conversions.
✅ Here’s The Fix: Make your headline clear and specific, use trust signals like testimonials or recognizable results, and then include one clear call-to-action on every page.
So How Do You Build Trust on Your Website (Right Now)?
If you’re wondering how to build trust on your website without a massive audience or years of experience — this is where it starts. Whether you’ve been in business for 5 years or 5 minutes, there are a few key things you can do today to build instant credibility:
- Speak clearly to your dream client — Say exactly who you help and how. No jargon. No fluff.
- Show your face — Let them connect with you as a real human behind the brand.
- Add proof — This could be testimonials, kind DMs, screenshots, or even before/after results of your own business.
- Make navigation effortless — Keep your design clean, mobile-friendly, and CTA-driven.
- Stay consistent — Your brand colors, fonts, messaging — they should match the experience you provide.
Remember: you don’t need to fake it to look legit. You just need to show up with intention.
Know Exactly Where the Gaps Are in Your Website
Building trust doesn’t mean being the loudest, the flashiest, or the most “put together.” It just means showing up with clarity, consistency, and connection. If you’re not sure what your site is doing right now to build trust (or where it might be dropping the ball), I’ve got something for you.
Website Launch Academy is my step-by-step program for service providers and coaches who are ready to build a site that finally works for them.✨ Learn more or join the waitlist at: https://jessierichardsdesigns.com/wl
💬 Did you learn something new about building trust with your website? Let me know in the comments or tag me on Instagram @JessieRichardsDesigns!
Remember — you’ve got this, and I’m here to support you every step of the way. Entrepreneurship is messy sometimes, but to succeed and truly reach your goals, you’ve got to be willing to ride the waves!
