That's what it says on my favorite T-Shirt.

When I wear it, strangers on the street come up to me and beg me to create a Web site for them. And if you believe that, I've got a bridge to sell you.

Obviously, trust is a crucial part of any business transaction. Why would you want to deal with someone you suspect of being dishonest?

So, how can you use your Web site to get prospective customers to know, like and TRUST you enough to do business with you? Here are some suggestions:

Make sure your site looks professional. Start with clean, simple pages · intuitive, consistent navigation · quick load time. (Does that sound like it is my mantra? Well, that's ok. It works.) Now add some sensible things like: easy to read copy written for humans (not search engines), good grammar and correct spelling, up- to-date content and contact information on every page.

Use testimonials to show how you have made previous customers happy. Testimonials are most effective when they are specific about the way you helped your client and are connected to a real person with a name and company. Never make up testimonials. I can't believe I even have to mention this, but I have seen people do it!

Show samples of your work. If you are in a field like design or architecture with a tangible finished product, this is easy. You can have a portfolio or photo gallery. If you are in a service field, you can use case studies and add testimonials as above. Photos of company facilities and events work well also.

Offer free stuff. Go beyond coupons and discounts. Offer something of value (free e- newsletter, articles with helpful tips, reputable resources and links, etc.) and ask for nothing in return. This sets you up as an expert in your field and helps to earn trust.

Include a Privacy Policy. Inform visitors in a clear way what you will and will not do with any personal data you collect. Make sure it is easy to read and free from fancy legal mumbo jumbo.

Be Yourself. Let's face it - not everyone is your customer. The best way to connect with those who are - let people get to know the real you. Express your opinions about how you work and what you think. Including your photo and the photos of the key people in your organization can put a personal face on your business.

These are just some of the ways you can use your Web site to build credibility and trust. They have worked for me and I know they will work you, too. Trust me!

Too cool for words!

I recently attained the Toastmaster level of Competent Communicator Bronze by giving the required 20th speech. That's a long way from my first Toastmaster speech - which was my first speech - ever - in my life. Up to that point, I had managed to avoid speaking in public at all costs. I was just too scared.

But here's the best part - while I was giving my speech, I realized that my fear of public speaking was gone!

Oh, I still get nervous, sometimes very nervous. But the crippling fear that can creep into and limit other areas of life is no longer in control. What a difference that makes.

Toastmasters is life changing! Fun too. Check it out.

Annette Riley Web Design combines an art background and many years experience working in small business settings.

My clients are small to medium size businesses, which I have watched grow and change over the years. Other clients, locally and around the country, have hired me to do updates and periodic maintenance on their web sites, even though I am not the original designer.

I enjoy helping other business owners grow their businesses. I measure my success by their successes.

You are good at your business. I am good at Web sites. Let's put our talents together! Call or e- mail me so we can talk about your business and how I may be able to help you.