Author: rjacobs

  • Business Order of Display

    The display order affects how the consumer views businesses on this website.

    See the application.  Credibility Counts

    The display order is not a factor if the company uses its website’s Safe and Trusted logo and code.  Using the logo and code provided gives a direct link from the company to the profile on Safe and Trusted and bypasses our order of display.

    The display order is not a factor when a consumer uses the website’s Credentials Search function, as consumers may be looking for credentials that will impact the display order. For example, looking for businesses that have been in business for ten years or more will significantly affect the view.  

    All subscriptions are at different levels. The start date of the business subscription determines placement for any account type, except for Information Only profiles, which are currently listed alphabetically.

    Please note that we are now adding a new element to the way all listings are displayed to ensure that the consumer deals with the best business possible. 

    As we can provide to the consumer, Google reviews will be a factor in the business display of our database. For example, the business category of Hotels is currently listed alphabetically for Information-Only profiles. Information profiles will gradually change to display the highest Google Review rating. Other account types will follow suit, making our process fair and equitable for all businesses while clarifying the consumer better.  The new order will be made by subscription type, composite rating, and business name alphabetically for hotels and restaurants.  Composite scores are not a factor for other business categories.

    Based on additional information, consumers can view each business’s business and contractor credentials and make their own decisions.

    Is the Advertised Name registered? Is the business licensed for the business category and city or town? How many years they have been in business is also a factor.  You must guarantee that the listed business credentials are correct if you are a business owner.   Your credentials can be viewed and searched by consumers. The Site will not score or validate the credentials.  Information Only profiles cannot list business credentials.

    If you are a contractor, do you carry worker’s compensation and liability insurance and provide written contracts and warranties in addition to the above? So, in addition to the subscription level, contractor credentials offer the consumer the separation needed between one business and another. A company must guarantee that the listed contractor’s credentials are accurate.  Your credentials can be viewed and searched by consumers. The Site will not score or validate the credentials.  Information-only profiles cannot list business credentials.

    All information-only profiles will be seen by the date added to the website by business category and trade area. The Site will still link to various review sites and social media for Information-Only profiles. Information-only profiles can be removed if they verify they are no longer in business or at the business owner’s request.

    In all cases, consumers will evaluate and make their own decisions.

    If a company moves from a Professional Subscription to a Basic Subscription, it loses its subscription level and does not retain the date of its initial signup.

    Consumers can refine their search by viewing the business’s external review sites and reviews generated on Safe and Trusted Canada.

    Tier 1 – Professional – See Professional Subscription
    Tier 2-  Advanced –  See Advanced Subscription
    Tier 3-  Standard – See Standard Subscription
    Tier 4 – Plus  – See Plus Subscription
    Tier 5 – Basic – See Basic Subscription
    Tier 6 – Information Only –See Information Only

    The Site automatically reduces the subscription to an Information Only profile should the subscription be cancelled.  The business may also be archived.  See When We Archive a Business.

    PLEASE NOTE THAT WE PLACE THE FOLLOWING CONTENT INTO EVERY PROFILE

    • Information Only Profiles are as advertised to the public on the internet.
    • As a matter of policy, the Site does not recommend, accredit, suggest, promote, or validate any business. Consumers do that through reviews.
    • The Site provides public links to review sites that permit us to publish those links.
    • The Site provides private links to all other trademarked review sites about the business directly only through their account access.
    • Subscription types give business owners different advertising options, but the Site does not suggest that credibility determines the subscription level.
    • Users can use the Credentials Search’s advanced features to determine the degree of reliability for each business.
    • It is the responsibility of the user to check the credentials advertised by the business.
    • Notify Site Admin immediately where the business is advertising credentials they do not have, or information is not current.
    • The company and the consumer entirely determine transactions with each other.
    • Safe and Trusted Canada does not mediate complaints, issues, or concerns.
    • Seek legal advice for complex transactions.
    • Protect your interests as the removal of the business may occur at any time.
    • See all subscription types for businesses.
    • See our YouTube Channel playlist
  • 34 Reasons Why You Should Link Your Profile and Your Website

    Safe and Trusted Canada encourages businesses to link their website and social media accounts to their Safe and Trusted Profile for several reasons.
    Safe and Trusted Canada sees many benefits for business owners, enabling the company to market its business affordably and innovatively.

    Linking your website and social media accounts to your Safe and Trusted Canada profile can offer numerous benefits for your business. Here are some key advantages of this approach:

    1. Affordable Marketing

    • Cost-Effective Promotion: Integrating your website and social media with your Safe and Trusted profile is a low-cost marketing strategy that provides visibility without extensive advertising budgets.
    • Increased Organic Reach: Direct links to your social media can help attract organic traffic, enhancing brand awareness without incurring additional costs.

    2. Innovative Marketing Approach

    • Integrated Brand Presence: By linking multiple platforms, you create a cohesive online presence, making it easier for customers to find and interact with your brand.
    • Real-Time Engagement: Social media allows for immediate customer interaction, fostering relationships and providing instant feedback on products or services.

    3. Increased Traffic

    • Drive Visitors to Your Website: By directing traffic from your Safe and Trusted profile to your website, you can increase your website’s visitor count, potentially leading to higher conversion rates.
    • Social Media Engagement: Sharing content and promotions on social media can encourage users to visit your profile and discover more about your offerings.

    4. Improved Customer Trust

    • Transparency and Credibility: Linking to your website and social media accounts adds credibility to your profile, as customers can verify your business information and see real-time updates.
    • Social Proof: Displaying active social media accounts can help build trust through customer reviews, testimonials, and community engagement.

    5. Targeted Marketing Opportunities

    • Tailored Content Sharing: You can share specific promotions, events, or content through social media, targeting particular audiences effectively and enhancing engagement.
    • Audience Insights: Social media platforms offer analytics tools that can help you better understand your audience, allowing for more effective marketing strategies.

    6. Enhanced Communication

    • Direct Customer Interaction: Linking your accounts enables direct customer communication, allowing you to address inquiries, resolve issues, and gather feedback efficiently.
    • Community Building: Engaging with customers through social media fosters a sense of community, encouraging loyalty and repeat business.

    7. SEO Benefits

    • Backlinks: Links from your Safe and Trusted profile to your website can contribute to your site’s authority, positively impacting your search engine ranking.
    • Increased Online Presence: More links and social media activity can improve your visibility on search engines, making it easier for customers to find you.

    8. Versatile Marketing Channels

    • Diverse Content Formats: Utilizing your website and social media allows for varied content formats, including videos, articles, and infographics, catering to different audience preferences.
    • Cross-Promotion: You can promote your Safe and Trusted profile on your website and social media, driving traffic between platforms and increasing overall engagement.

    By leveraging the connections between your Safe and Trusted profile, website, and social media accounts, you can create a more integrated and effective marketing strategy that enhances brand visibility, engages customers, and ultimately drives growth for your business.

    Not requiring consumers to access the Safe and Trusted website to find your business, along with the absence of competition on that platform, provides several strategic advantages:

    1. Reduced Competition

    • Exclusive Visibility: You capture more consumer attention without competing businesses on the same platform. This exclusivity can lead to higher conversion rates as consumers are not distracted by alternatives.
    • Market Differentiation: Your business can stand out more prominently, allowing you to showcase unique offerings without the noise of competing brands.

    2. Increased Brand Loyalty

    • Enhanced Customer Experience: Customers can easily find and interact with your business without navigating other options, leading to a more straightforward and positive experience.
    • Building Trust: With fewer competitors around, consumers are more likely to develop trust and loyalty to your brand, knowing they are engaging directly with you.

    3. Streamlined Consumer Journey

    • Direct Access: Consumers can access your business information and offerings directly through various channels (like social media or referrals), simplifying their journey and making it easier to make a purchasing decision.
    • Reduced Friction: This streamlined process minimizes consumer barriers, encouraging them to engage with your business more readily.

    4. Targeted Marketing

    • Custom Marketing Strategies: With fewer distractions, you can focus your marketing efforts on reaching your target audience more effectively, tailoring messages that resonate without competing for attention.
    • Specific Outreach: You can craft marketing campaigns that directly connect with consumer interests, increasing the likelihood of conversion.

    5. Brand Recognition

    • Strengthened Brand Identity: Consistent exposure without competition allows your brand to be more easily recognized and remembered by consumers.
    • Unique Selling Proposition: You can emphasize your unique value propositions without being overshadowed by competitors, making communicating what sets you apart easier.

    6. Enhanced Customer Relationships

    • Personalized Engagement: With direct access, you can cultivate customized customer relationships through tailored communication, promotions, and customer service.
    • Community Building: Engaging directly with your audience allows for community-building opportunities, fostering a loyal customer base.

    7. Improved Conversion Rates

    • Higher Likelihood of Purchase: Consumers are more likely to complete purchases without distractions from competitors, leading to increased sales and revenue.
    • Easier Decision Making: The lack of competition can help consumers feel more confident in their choices, reducing the hesitation often associated with comparing multiple options.

    8. Cost-Effective Marketing

    • Lower Customer Acquisition Costs: The focused visibility can lead to higher conversion rates, potentially lowering the costs of acquiring new customers.
    • Maximized Marketing ROI: Reducing competition and streamlining the customer journey can help you achieve better returns on your marketing investments.

    9. Strategic Growth Opportunities

    • Market Expansion: With competitors’ reduced presence, you may find opportunities to expand your market share and reach new customer segments more effectively.
    • Innovation Freedom: You can innovate and adapt your offerings without the pressure of competing businesses, allowing for more creative solutions that meet consumer needs.

    In summary, the absence of competition on the Safe and Trusted platform allows your business to capitalize on exclusive visibility, build stronger customer relationships, and create more effective marketing strategies. This environment can significantly enhance your brand’s potential for growth and success.

    The Site automatically reduces the subscription to an Information Only profile should the subscription be cancelled.  The company may also be archived.
    See When We Archive a Business.

    PLEASE NOTE THAT WE PLACE THE FOLLOWING CONTENT INTO EVERY PROFILE

      • Information Only Profiles are as advertised to the public on the internet.
      • As a matter of policy, the Site does not recommend, accredit, suggest, promote, or validate any business. Consumers do that through reviews.
      • The Site provides public links to review sites that permit us to publish those links.
      • The Site provides private links to all other trademarked review sites about the business directly only through their account access.
      • Subscription types give business owners different advertising options, but the Site does not suggest that credibility determines the subscription level.
      • Users can use the Credentials Search’s advanced features to determine the degree of reliability for each business.
      • It is the responsibility of the user to check the credentials advertised by the business.
      • Notify Site Admin immediately where the business is advertising credentials they do not have, or information is not current.
      • The company and the consumer entirely determine transactions with each other.
      • Safe and Trusted Canada does not mediate complaints, issues, or concerns.
      • Seek legal advice for complex transactions.
      • Protect your interests as the removal of the business may occur at any time.
      • See all subscription types for businesses
      • See our YouTube Channel playlists.
  • Sign Up with PDF Application Form

    The PDF application highlights everything in one form. It quickly provides details and a paper trail for your business.

    Credibility Counts

    Our system is different.  We look for businesses that are legally registered and licensed.  We look for contractors that have all their business credentials in order.  Our system is for business owners with all their credentials in order.  Business Credentials 

    We don’t take everyone.  See the following link. Credibility Questions and Links

    If you, as a business owner, wish to have an account, email us at office@safeandtrusted.com or call us toll-free at 1-888-979-6490. Our admin sets up the account for the business owner directly and ensures everything is accurate with the business profile.

    Once the business owner approves, we will continue with invoicing. This eliminates marketing reps setting up accounts for businesses the business owner did not authorize. The new process ensures the business owner understands how to maximize their listing as a maintenance function afterwards. You will be added to our email list for updates and promotions.

    We invoice the business owner directly.   Payment can occur by cheque, credit card or electronic transfer.   You can also call us directly at 888-979-6490.  Please note that we do not issue refunds for any paid account. If paying monthly, we need 60 days’ notice to cancel an account.

    We provide a system where the consumer sorts and selects businesses based on the criteria they feel are important to them.

    The Site automatically reduces the subscription to an Information Only profile should the subscription be cancelled.  The company may also be archived.
    See When We Archive a Business.

    PLEASE NOTE THAT WE PLACE THE FOLLOWING CONTENT INTO EVERY PROFILE

      • Information Only Profiles are as advertised to the public on the internet.
      • As a matter of policy, the Site does not recommend, accredit, suggest, promote, or validate any business. Consumers do that through reviews.
      • The Site provides public links to review sites that permit us to publish those links.
      • The Site provides private links to all other trademarked review sites about the business directly only through their account access.
      • Subscription types give business owners different advertising options, but the Site does not suggest that credibility determines the subscription level.
      • Users can use the Credentials Search’s advanced features to determine the degree of reliability for each business.
      • It is the responsibility of the user to check the credentials advertised by the business.
      • Notify Site Admin immediately where the business is advertising credentials they do not have, or information is not current.
      • The company and the consumer entirely determine transactions with each other.
      • Safe and Trusted Canada does not mediate complaints, issues, or concerns.
      • Seek legal advice for complex transactions.
      • Protect your interests as the removal of the business may occur at any time.
      • See all subscription types for businesses
      • See our YouTube Channel playlists.
  • New Search Options

    We are making it easier than ever to find trusted businesses on Safe and Trusted Canada.

     See the New Search Options on YouTube

    1. Independent Search Fields

    You no longer need to fill out multiple fields to get results.
    Users can now search Business Name, City, or Phone Number independently.

    • Search by Business Name without adding a city, category, or province.

    • If the business name does not appear, try entering the last four digits of their phone number.

    2. City-Based Search

    When you type in a city name, you will need to select a category.  You no longer need to fill out multiple fields to get results. 
     You have the option to search for business or contractor credentials simultaneously.

    Please note that if you want to see the whole city at a glance with all the categories and subcategories, search for City Trade Areas

    3. Category and Province Search

    If you’re looking for a specific business category, such as Roofers, you can:

    • Search for your city or town in that category to view local results.

    • If no businesses are listed in your area, choose the category and province to view all listings across the province.

    This flexible approach ensures you can always find reputable professionals locally or province-wide.

    4. More Search Options

    Businesses with accounts can place their business credentials and/or contractor credentials with account status.
    The Search More Options will allow consumers to sort a business’s credentials in one click.  
    This reflects our commitment to helping consumers verify and compare credentials, years in business, and other key factors, all in one trusted location.

  • Reputation Management.

    Safe and Trusted Canada is a Vendasta Partner and passes savings to your business if you are part of our business directory.    See the video. 

    Reputation management is indeed a crucial aspect of any business. It refers to monitoring, influencing, and improving the public perception of your company, brand, or product. Maintaining a positive reputation can significantly impact your success in today’s digital age, where information spreads quickly. Here’s why reputation management is essential for your business:

    1. Builds Trust with Customers

    A strong, positive reputation instills trust in your customers. People are more likely to do business with a company they trust, whether to purchase products, engage in services, or invest in long-term partnerships. Reputation management helps create an image that reassures customers they are making a safe and reliable choice.

    2. Improves Brand Image

    Actively managing your reputation allows you to shape how customers and the public view your business. Addressing negative reviews, highlighting positive customer experiences, and promoting good practices can enhance your overall image. This can improve customer perception and increase brand loyalty.

    3. Attracts New Customers

    Potential customers often look up reviews and feedback before engaging with a company. Positive reviews and a well-managed reputation can differentiate your business from competitors and encourage prospects to choose you. This is especially true when people rely on word-of-mouth and social proof to guide their decisions.

    4. Helps Manage Negative Feedback

    No business is immune to criticism. How you respond to negative feedback is crucial. Reputation management involves addressing complaints, correcting mistakes, and turning potentially harmful situations into opportunities for growth. By being proactive and transparent, you can mitigate the damage of negative publicity and demonstrate your commitment to customer satisfaction.

    5. Impacts on Search Engine Results

    Your online reputation often affects your SEO ranking. Negative reviews or unflattering articles can lower your search engine rankings, while a positive reputation can increase your visibility. Reputation management efforts, such as generating positive reviews, addressing concerns, and maintaining an active online presence, can improve how you rank on search engines.

    6. Enhances Employee Morale and Retention

    A company with a positive reputation doesn’t just attract customers; it also attracts and retains top talent. Employees feel proud to work for a company with a strong reputation, which boosts morale and reduces turnover. Happy employees contribute to a positive work environment, strengthening the company’s brand.

    8. Increases Sales and Profits

    Ultimately, a strong reputation can lead to higher sales and greater profitability. A positive public image increases customer loyalty, more word-of-mouth marketing, and better conversion rates. A reputation management strategy contributes to the long-term financial success of your business.

    9. Competitor Advantage

    This gives you a distinct advantage if your competitors are not actively managing their reputations. By consistently providing excellent service, engaging with customers online, and addressing any issues, you can outshine your competition and become the preferred choice for consumers.

     

     

     

  • See All Trade Areas In Canada

    Consumers and businesses must understand that Safe and Trusted Canada is a neutral site that does not recommend or endorse any business. We ask consumers to protect their interests at all times.

    Please see our Terms and Conditions of Use, as well as the Legal Disclaimers and Policies.

    Businesses may apply for account status.  See all Subscription Types

    Not all businesses qualify for an account. Features and Benefits.

    We look for businesses with credentials. Business Credentials

    Safe and Trusted Canada covers all of Canada.

    Find Local Businesses in Each Province.

    British Columbia  Alberta
    Saskatchewan Manitoba
    Ontario  Quebec
    New Brunswick Prince Edward Island
    Nova Scotia Newfoundland and Labrador
    Nunavut Northwest Territories
    Yukon

    The Site automatically reduces the subscription to an Information Only profile should the subscription be cancelled. The company may also be archived.
    See When We Archive a Business.

    PLEASE NOTE THAT WE PLACE THE FOLLOWING CONTENT INTO EVERY PROFILE

      • Information Only Profiles are advertised to the public on the internet.
      • As a matter of policy, the Site does not recommend, accredit, suggest, promote, or validate any business. Consumers do that through reviews.
      • The Site provides public links to review sites that permit us to publish those links.
      • The Site provides private links to all other trademarked review sites about the business directly only through their account access.
      • Subscription types give business owners different advertising options, but the Site does not suggest that credibility determines the subscription level.
      • Users can use the Credentials Search’s advanced features to determine the degree of reliability for each business.
      • It is the responsibility of the user to check the credentials advertised by the business.
      • Notify Site Admin immediately where the business is advertising credentials they do not have or information is not current.
      • The company and the consumer entirely determine transactions with each other.
      • Safe and Trusted Canada does not mediate complaints, issues, or concerns.
      • Seek legal advice for complex transactions.
      • Protect your interests, as the removal of the business, may occur at any time.
      • See all subscription types for businesses
      • See our YouTube Channel playlists.
  • Links to Review Sites

    Consumers use review sites to determine credibility, and businesses use review sites to illustrate that credibility to consumers. Information profiles will show review sites in the listing profile.

    Once business owners have an account, they control review sites, except for Google and Better Business Bureau.   The following review sites may be listed for a business profile.   Some rating review sites are available for several different categories.   Please note – If a rating site asks us to delete their review site, it will be done on request forever.   We will publish that to consumers.

    Businesses may apply for account status.  See all Subscription Types

    Not all businesses qualify for an account. Features and Benefits.

    We look for businesses with credentials. Business Credentials

    Automatically Available to Consumer. – Google.

    The following are review sites we may link to for information-only profiles.  The business with an account takes control of all the following review sites.

    General  Better Business Bureau

    Hotel Industry –  Agoda – Booking.com – Expedia – Hotels.com – Hotelplanner.com – Kayak – Orbitz -Priceline – Travel Advisor – Trip Advisor – Travelocity- Trivago.ca  Wedding Wire, Yellow Pages and  Yelp.

    Restaurant Industry  – Food Locate – Four Square – Menupix.com -Open Table – Restaurantguru.com -Restaurantji.com – Sirved.com – Zomato

    Contractor Industry – Alignable – Angie’s List- Guild Quality- HomeStars
    – Trusted Pros- Houzz-

    Car Industry – Auto Trader.ca – Beep for Service – Car Gurus – Carpages.ca
    Dealer Rater.ca – Hey Auto

    Other Review Sites – Birdeye.com – Demand Force – Glass Door- Helped By
    Indeed – Massage Book – N49.com – Rank my Agent.com – Rate a biz – RateMDs-RealSatisfied.ca – Solutionreach.com – Trust Analytica – Yably.ca

    The Site automatically reduces the subscription to an Information Only profile should the subscription be cancelled.  The company may also be archived.
    See When We Archive a Business.

    PLEASE NOTE THAT WE PLACE THE FOLLOWING CONTENT INTO EVERY PROFILE

      • Information Only Profiles are as advertised to the public on the internet.
      • As a matter of policy, the Site does not recommend, accredit, suggest, promote, or validate any business. Consumers do that through reviews.
      • The Site provides public links to review sites that permit us to publish those links.
      • The Site provides private links to all other trademarked review sites about the business directly only through their account access.
      • Subscription types give business owners different advertising options, but the Site does not suggest that credibility determines the subscription level.
      • Users can use the Credentials Search’s advanced features to determine the degree of reliability for each business.
      • It is the responsibility of the user to check the credentials advertised by the business.
      • Notify Site Admin immediately where the business is advertising credentials they do not have or information is not current.
      • The company and the consumer entirely determine transactions with each other.
      • Safe and Trusted Canada does not mediate complaints, issues, or concerns.
      • Seek legal advice for complex transactions.
      • Protect your interests as the removal of the business may occur at any time.
      • See all subscription types for businesses
      • See our YouTube Channel playlists.
  • The Signs of a Credible Business

    A credible business holds several advantages that make it more valuable to consumers.   These are the seven areas that make a credible business.

    1. Trustworthiness: Credible businesses are perceived as more trustworthy.  When a business consistently delivers on its promises, maintains transparency, and behaves ethically, consumers feel more confident in engaging with them.  Trust is the foundation of any consumer business relationship.
    2. Quality Assurance: Credible businesses strive to meet or exceed customer expectations by offering products and services of consistent quality. This commitment to high standards ensures customer satisfaction, a key element of a credible business.
    3. Customer Service: Credible businesses prioritize customer satisfaction. They are responsive to inquiries, concerns, and feedback and provide excellent customer service throughout the consumer journey. This commitment to customer care enhances the overall experience and fosters loyalty.
    4. Reputation:  A strong reputation is a valuable asset for any business.  Credible businesses build reputations over time through their actions, interactions, and the quality of their offerings.  A favorable reputation attracts new customers and encourages repeat business from existing ones.
    5. Risk Mitigation: Consumers are often cautious about engaging with businesses that appear risky or unreliable.  Credible businesses reduce perceived risks for consumers by demonstrating stability.
    6. Compliance :  A credible business ensures that they meet all the requirements for licensing, name registration, and all the requirements necessary to conduct business for their business category, city and province.
    7. Ethical Behavior : Credible businesses adhere to ethical standards in all aspects of their operations, including treatment of employees, suppliers, and customers.
    8. Leadership :  The business owner is key to the success of a credible business.  Some leaders inspire staff and can build a business with positivity, planning, and commitment.
  • What Causes an Alert About A Business?

    Safe and Trusted Canada applies Alerts only to account holders who include information in their listing that they cannot reasonably support.   Information-only profiles do not display Alerts.

    What This Includes

    Licensing where applicable.
    Insurance, such as liability coverage or WCB
    Certifications or professional designations.
    Industry affiliations or memberships.
    Claimed years in business.
    Services Offered
    Any statements that suggest specialization or qualification.
    Any supporting content, such as images, PDFs, or videos, that imply credentials or experience.
    Approving customer reviews from staff connected with the business.
    Approving reviews from others who are not actual customers.

    What Does Not Trigger an Alert

    Missing or incomplete information.
    Information Only profiles.
    Consumer reviews or ratings.
    Customer complaints or disputes.

    Business Notification

    Each business controls the content of its listing and agrees to present accurate and supportable information.
    Businesses should include only information they can reasonably demonstrate if requested

    The Account Holder has gone out of business. 

     The Alert is placed on the business for one year.  After one year, the company is archived and no longer visible.

    As a consumer, protect your interests at all times.

    Account Holders – To protect consumers, other businesses, and the integrity of the Site, Account Holders have higher standards and greater responsibilities as a business.

    The reason for this is that the company is now placing content on our Site and has control over reviews, the placement of now-hiring links, links to affiliations, and the placement of their credentials in their business profile. The company sets an alert if they place credentials in their business profile that they do not possess, or if they post reviews on their profile from people who are directly or indirectly connected to the firm. Archiving cannot happen if the business has an alert. See Alerts

    We advise consumers to protect their interests at all times.  See the videos and content. When Do We Archive a Business?