Your Online Presence Matters More Than Ever. Recently, I was researching ways to support my son on his upcoming mission trips. One option immediately caught my eye. It was Christian-focused, which I love to support. But as I looked further, I realized finding reliable information about them online was very difficult.

Here’s the process I follow when researching a company:

1. Google their website – They had one, which was a good start.
2. Check social media – Their Facebook hadn’t been updated in two years, and their Twitter account, created in 2015, had no posts.
3. Review the About page – Very generic; nothing personal about the branding or leadership.
4. Look for reviews or testimonials – Found nothing substantial.
5. See who else has used their services – Only one person listed on their website.

Because of the lack of information, I had to turn to ChatGPT!. Here’s what I found:

• Very few independent reviews or user testimonials exist outside the platform.
• Complaints, downsides, or contrasting experiences aren’t highlighted. Usability issues, delays, or hidden costs are unclear.
• Limited feedback from long-term users or large campaign organizers.
• ScamDoc rating: 76% (average). While the domain is older, the owner’s identity is hidden.
• A concerning Reddit comment suggested potential misuse of credit card information—though anecdotal, it raised a red flag.

Even though the company had a website and social media presence, it wasn’t robust or detailed enough to build trust immediately. This experience reinforced a truth I always share: your online presence matters now more than ever.

6 Reasons Your Online Presence Matters Today
1. Credibility and Trust – A strong, professional online presence signals that you are legitimate and trustworthy. People are more likely to engage with, buy from, or collaborate with someone who has consistent branding, clear messaging, and active online activity.
2. Visibility and Reach – Being active online increases your chances of being found. Websites, social media, blogs, and podcasts help extend your reach far beyond your local network.
3. Control of Your Narrative – Your online presence lets you shape how people perceive you. Without it, potential supporters or clients may rely on scattered reviews, third-party content, or assumptions—which may not reflect your values or expertise.
4. Marketing and Business Growth – Your online presence is a hub for marketing. It helps you connect with your audience, share products or services, and generate leads. Organic growth happens when content is shareable, searchable, and engaging.
5. Networking and Opportunities – Partnerships, collaborations, media appearances, and other opportunities often start online. A professional, active presence makes it easy for others to discover and contact you.
6. Authority and Influence – Consistently sharing value-driven content establishes your expertise. People start viewing you as a go-to resource, opening doors to speaking engagements, interviews, and partnerships.

Your online presence is no longer optional, it’s essential. Whether you’re running a business, supporting a cause, or just sharing your story, the information people find online shapes how they perceive you. Don’t let others control your narrative. Be intentional, active, and authentic online.

Listen to the podcast episode!