Trust isn't just a marketing tactic. It's the foundation of whether someone chooses you at all.

In this solo episode of Creating the Curve, Anna Bravington builds on last week's conversation with Lorraine Emmett and dives deeper into what trust really means for small business founders in today's climate.

Drawing on insights from the Edelman Trust Barometer, conversations at You Are The Media, and her own lived experience building networks in Bournemouth and Fareham, Anna explores why trust is shrinking globally and why that makes it more important than ever for founders to build it intentionally.

From networking and communities to podcasts, webinars and even taking people out for lunch, this episode is packed with practical, human ways to strengthen trust before someone is ready to buy.

Anna covers:

• Why trust in institutions is declining and what that means for your business • Why people buy from those they know, not necessarily those who are "best" • How community marketing builds trust over time • Practical ways to build trust locally and online • Why giving value first (checklists, content, resources) creates credibility • The overlooked importance of trusting yourself as a founder

If sales feel harder, if cold outreach isn't landing, or if you're wondering why "less experienced" competitors seem to win work - this episode will help you understand why trust is often the missing piece.

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