31 Key Differences From Other Providers

What makes the Safe and Trusted Canada Different?   

With a track record dating back to 2005, Safe and Trusted Canada's management has closely collaborated with business owners. We've taken their feedback and insights to heart, resulting in a database and platform that truly caters to their needs.    

Safe and Trusted Canada has accreditation with the Better Business Bureau.   See our report.

Businesses may apply for account status.  See all Subscription Types

We look for companies with credentials. Business Credentials

What are the signs of a Credible Business?  See More

Many attributes of our Site that may be different are as follows:

1. Safe and Trusted Canada is a platform to promote local businesses by organizing them into relevant categories.  The platform makes it easier for consumers to discover businesses by providing links to significant online resources like review sites, social media profiles and professional affiliations.  This approach helps build trust between businesses and consumers by streamlining access to key information, categories and direct links to review sites, social media and professional affiliations.

2. Safe and Trusted Canada offers an Information profile for each business, providing a neutral listing that includes positive and negative reviews without filtering based on sentiment.  This transparency allows consumers to make more informed decisions by seeing a comprehensive overview of a business's online presence in one place.  This approach empowers consumers to choose based on the full picture of the business rather than a curated or filtered view.

3.  A business with an Information profile can receive consumer reviews. However, the platform only displays the number of reviews and the total aggregate score to the consumer, not the individual review content. To further engage with the platform, a business can apply for an account to post and manage their reviews and provide detailed feedback rather than just the aggregate score.  This system ensures that businesses can actively manage their profiles while maintaining a streamlined, easily accessible information hub for consumers.

4.  Safe and Trusted Canada allows businesses with an Information profile to update their details through account access, ensuring accuracy and relevance. Key features of this account access include free access for companies with a favourable profile without expecting a paid subscription later. Companies can update information as required, keeping their profile current. Businesses can request an account, provided they do not have an F-rating with the Better Business Bureau or have shown suspicious review data with Google or anytime if they have not violated the site's conditions, such as providing false information or credentials.

5. Safe and Trusted Canada includes links to various review sites, offering consumers access to external reviews, whether positive or negative.  However, the platform does not interpret or filter any information from these review sites. The platform does not take ownership of the reviews; each linked review site retains control over its content and how reviews are processed.

6. Businesses with account status on Safe and Trusted Canada are provided access to their content management system, which contains 13 different areas to manage and update their profiles.  All businesses are eligible for a Basic Subscription at no charge, enabling them to manage their listing and update their business profile.  However, companies must meet specific criteria to maintain the platform's integrity.  The business needs to list its business credentials, and it needs to have a history of addressing complaints properly.  If a business fails to meet these standards, an account will be denied, but an information-only profile will remain.    This system ensures that only qualified and responsible businesses can maintain an account on the platform, enhancing consumer trust.

7.  Safe and Trusted Canada maintains impartiality by providing public links to well-known review sites such as Google Reviews, Better Business Bureau(BBB) and Safe and Trusted Canada's platform. In addition, businesses and consumers can access links to up to 48 other trademarked review sites.  However, when businesses apply for account status, they can unlink from review sites other than Google Reviews and the Better Business Bureau.  .

8. Safe and Trusted Canada's platform offers businesses with account status the ability to highlight what differentiates them from their competitors, an important feature many businesses overlook on their websites. The Site may provide businesses with a free Professional Profile to demonstrate the platform's potential.   The Professional Profile is a showcase, allowing business owners to see the Site's features and presentation options. Professional Profiles are listed at the top of the database, giving businesses premium visibility.  After the free trial, businesses can decide whether to continue at this level of advertising.  This feature helps businesses better understand the platform's value while allowing them to maximize their visibility and stand out from competitors.

9. Safe and Trusted Canada's platform provides business owners with account access to several options to enhance their profiles by listing important information.  This includes links to their affiliations, such as professional associations or certifications.  This includes their business website and other relevant contact information for customers.  The ability to use the Safe and Trusted Logo as a link from their website, directing visitors to their profile on Safe and Trusted Canada while enhancing credibility and visibility for all business subscription levels. This setup strengthens the business's online presence and boosts consumer trust by showcasing affiliations and linking to an impartial, trusted platform.

10. Safe and Trusted Canada provides premium subscription holders with expanded presentation options to showcase their business more effectively. The ability to upload up to 10 PDFs such as brochures, certification, or detailed product/service information.  The ability to upload 20 images to represent the business and its offerings visually. The ability to upload up to 10 YouTube links allows businesses to share video content, such as advertisements, tutorials, or customer testimonials.  The ability to place in up to 20 trade areas enhances visibility across multiple categories and locations.  These expanded options give businesses a distinct advantage by making more information readily available to consumers, helping them make informed decisions more quickly.

11.  Safe and Trusted Canada differentiates itself by organizing business listings based on subscription type and date rather than the distance from the consumer to the business. This approach ensures that businesses are consistently listed to reflect their subscription level and the listing date, providing a clear and fair hierarchy. When consumer search for credentials, the search results automatically display businesses according to their subscription type and listing date.  This method allows consumers to find exactly what they're looking for without the added complexity of distance-based listings. Unlike many other providers, Safe and Trusted Canada offers a higher level of searchability, enhancing consumers' overall user experience.

12. Safe and Trusted Canada’s Professional Subscription allows businesses to create direct links to their website and any specific site sections. This feature enables consumers to easily access relevant information directly from the business profile.  For other subscription levels, businesses can still link to their website directly, but consumers must copy and paste a link into their browser to view content for specific website sections.  This distinction in linking capabilities enhances the accessibility of information for consumers with a Professional Subscription, streamlining their experience and encouraging engagement with the business's offerings.

13. Safe and Trusted Canada is committed to transparency by stating that it does not validate, recommend, or accredit any business. This reminder appears on every business profile to ensure consumers and businesses understand the platform's role.  The primary purpose of Safe and Trusted Canada is to provide accurate information from a variety of sources rather than relying on a single avenue of information. This approach empowers consumers to make informed decisions based on a comprehensive view of available data. In contrast, many other providers may imply that their platform is the sole source of information, potentially limiting consumer exploration and understanding.  By fostering a multi-source information environment, Safe and Trusted Canada aims to enhance consumer trust and encourage thorough research before making decisions.

14. Safe and Trusted Canada communicates that all transactions and interactions between consumers and businesses are strictly the responsibility of those entities. The platform does not engage in mediation or arbitration services.  This information is prominently displayed on every business profile, ensuring that consumers and businesses know the limitations of Safe and Trusted Canada’s role.  By establishing this clear boundary, the platform reinforces that it acts solely as an information hub, leaving the management of business-consumer relationships to the parties involved.  This approach promotes transparency and accountability, allowing consumers and businesses to engage directly without expecting intervention from the platform.

15. Safe and Trusted Canada enhances the consumer experience with its automatic search functions, which filter results based on user-defined criteria for credentials. This functionality allows consumers to narrow down their searches effectively. Consumers can use the identified credentials to request Equotes from businesses, allowing for direct inquiries about services or products.  The Equote system is exclusively available to premium subscription holders, providing valuable leads without any associated costs for the business owner.  Business owners have full control over their participation in the Equote system, deciding whether they wish to receive leads based on their preferences.  In contrast, many other providers often charge substantial fees for leads and typically lack the sophisticated search functions that enable consumers to focus on the specific credentials they find most appealing. This makes Safe and Trusted Canada a more consumer-friendly and cost-effective option for businesses and consumers.

16. Safe and Trusted Canada does not assign automatic grades or star ratings to businesses, distinguishing itself from many other platforms that use simplistic or weak criteria for evaluation. Credibility is assessed based on various robust factors rather than a single rating system.  By refraining from assigning grades, Safe and Trusted Canada promotes a more nuanced understanding of each business, encouraging consumers to consider multiple aspects of credibility and reliability.  This approach ensures that consumers receive a comprehensive view of a business’s standing rather than relying on a potentially misleading or oversimplified rating.

17.  Safe and Trusted Canada distinguishes itself by not using algorithms to determine business visibility or ranking. In contrast, some other providers frequently modify their algorithms to promote advertisements, which can lead to inconsistencies in how businesses are presented. One key feature of Safe and Trusted Canada is that there is no reliance on algorithms, ensuring that business listings are solely based on subscription types and listing dates. The platform operates without advertisements, providing a clean, straightforward user experience focused on the quality of information rather than promotional content.  This model fosters transparency and trust, allowing consumers to access reliable information without the influence of shifting algorithms or paid placements.

18.  On Safe and Trusted Canada, the distinctions between subscription types are primarily based on the number of subcategories a business can be listed under, allowing for broader visibility in relevant fields. The number of trade areas where a business can appear enhances its reach to potential consumers in various locations. The position in the database impacts how prominently a business appears in consumer searches. Notably, the subscription type does not indicate the credibility of a business. This separation ensures that consumers can evaluate businesses based on their merits and relevant information rather than their chosen subscription level. This approach promotes a fair and transparent environment for both businesses and consumers.

19.  On Safe and Trusted Canada, all Information-Only profiles are organized alphabetically within their respective trade areas. This ensures that consumers can easily find businesses based on name recognition. Account holders have an excellent platform to advertise and manage their businesses. Account holders can provide consumers with comprehensive information about the business all in one place, enhancing the user experience.  Account holders can share their business profile with potential customers using a single link, streamlining communication and outreach.  The business owner can send the profile to the consumer using one link. Additionally, each listing features its record of actual traffic, allowing business owners to track how many consumers view their profile. This data can help businesses assess their online presence and make informed decisions about their marketing strategies.

20. Safe and Trusted Canada maintains that it does not harm any business's credibility. A business's credibility can be compromised only if it submits untrue content in its profile or lists business credentials it does not possess through its account. In such cases, the platform implements the following actions: An Alert is placed on the business profile for one year, notifying consumers of the issue. The business is demoted to an Information-Only profile, limiting its visibility and features.  After one year, the business may be archived, but the alert remains visible to consumers during that time.  It's important to note that any credibility issues arise from actions taken by the business owner, not from Safe and Trusted Canada. Consumers are encouraged to notify Site Admin immediately if they notice that a business is advertising credentials it does not possess, ensuring the platform's integrity. This process promotes accountability and transparency for all listed companies on the site

21. Safe and Trusted Canada now offers software options for reputation management and social media marketing. These tools are competitively priced in Canadian dollars and designed to assist businesses in enhancing their online presence and effectiveness. Business owners can access detailed reports that analyze their marketing performance, highlighting areas of success and identifying potential weaknesses.  The reports provide insights into where the business thrives online and where improvements may be needed, helping to understand why consumers might choose competitors.  By utilizing these software options, businesses can develop targeted strategies to strengthen their marketing efforts and better engage with their local audience, ultimately leading to greater success in a competitive marketplace.

22. Are you a business owner without a website? Safe and Trusted Canada offers a convenient solution for businesses in this situation. We can help you explore your options and identify what to consider in your online presentation, all at no charge through an online meeting.  Many first-time business owners may not fully understand the possibilities and limitations of having a website. That's why we offer a free consultation, providing valuable insights without obligation. At the end of the meeting, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to choose a local web designer that fits your needs

23. Safe and Trusted Canada offers a superior platform for consumers to select contractors while allowing competent contractors to showcase their businesses effectively. Key features include an advanced credentials search designed for contractors, enabling consumers to find qualified professionals based on specific criteria.  The platform separates one contractor from another, making it easier for consumers to differentiate between options and make informed choices.  In contrast, many other providers fail to offer the same clarity and specificity, which can lead to confusion for consumers. Safe and Trusted Canada’s focus on detailed contractor credentials helps ensure that consumers can confidently select the right contractor for their needs.

24. A consumer can search for a business by province, city, business category, business credentials, contractor credentials,  business name, business owner, and even the last four digits of a business phone number anywhere in Canada.  The comprehensive search capability is automatically available to all subscription types, ensuring that every business listed can be found using specific and relevant filters.  For businesses with a Professional Subscription, the advantages extend beyond just top listings in their city; they may also enjoy top listing advantages at the provincial level. This increased visibility helps attract more potential customers, enhancing their overall reach and presence in the market

25. Safe and Trusted Canada now features a Discount and Promotions area and job posting capabilities in every business subscription. Businesses with a Professional Subscription can create and manage promotions directly on the platform, making it easy to attract new customers and boost sales.  By offering exclusive deals and promotions, businesses can entice new customers to try their products or services while rewarding loyal customers for their ongoing support.  Business owners can provide direct links to their websites that advertise job vacancies, facilitating recruitment.   Owners can upload a PDF document that clearly outlines their expectations for suitable candidates, enhancing the clarity of their job postings.  Importantly, all communication between potential staff and business owners remains solely with those entities, ensuring privacy and direct interaction. This comprehensive set of features supports businesses in effectively marketing their services and managing their hiring needs.

26. Safe and Trusted Canada facilitates reviews for all listings on its platform, ensuring that feedback comes from actual customers. Only individuals who have transacted with the business can leave a review, guaranteeing that feedback is based on genuine experiences. Business account holders have several options regarding reviews: They can post a review,  respond to reviews or request the deletion of a review if it contains abusive content or if the reviewer is not a verified customer.  Remember, the details of a review are not posted without the account holder's permission.  Each account holder receives a QR code that they can use to generate even more customer reviews, making it easier for clients to provide feedback. Reviewers can only submit one review per business on the site and must have directly interacted with the company.  For Information-Only profiles, while reviews are present, only the number of reviews and the aggregate score are visible to consumers, ensuring transparency without revealing individual review content. This structured review approach helps maintain the platform's integrity and trustworthiness.

27.  The Safe and Trusted platform offers multiple options that a business can take advantage of our platform without breaking the bank.  A company that links its website to its Safe and Trusted profile receives up to a $100 discount.  A business accredited with the Better Business Bureau or needing a Professional affiliation also receives up to a $100 discount.  One application offers no discounts but allows the company to double their trade areas from 20 to 40 for just $100.00.   The site looks for credible businesses with affiliations.  Safe and Trusted Canada allows you to showcase your skills and expertise to a broader audience.  There are 3 Application Options.

28. Safe and Trusted Canada offers a superior system for consumers searching for businesses. It provides multiple options and clear reasons one business may stand out. The platform empowers consumers to make informed choices through unique features highlighting a business’s credentials and strengths.  Safe and Trusted Canada provides unique features for business owners that help them stand out and attract customers. It also offers opportunities to showcase their business through affordable subscription options that don't strain their budget. Further, it provides various tools to increase success, many of which are available at no charge or with a minimal investment. Safe and Trusted Canada enhances the local business ecosystem by offering valuable options and support to consumers and business owners. It makes it easier for consumers to find trustworthy services while helping businesses grow substantially and easily.

29. Safe and Trusted Canada offers Reputation Management Software that provides several advantages for business owners. The software allows you to proactively manage reviews, ratings, and feedback from several sources to enhance your online presence. You can also respond quickly to negative feedback to mitigate potential damage to your brand, which Increases Customer Trust. Your business has several options, starting at $49.00 per month, paid yearly. 

30. Safe and Trusted Canada's social media marketing options provide flexibility and convenience for business owners who lack the time to manage this vital aspect of their business. Use AI-powered tools to schedule posts, engage with followers, and monitor social media performance effortlessly. Our easy-to-use software is designed for business owners who prefer to maintain some level of control. Our software gives the business owner this ability starting at $29.00 monthly, paid yearly.  Safe and Trusted Canada's social media marketing options are designed to simplify the process of building and maintaining a strong online presence. Whether you prefer automation or professional support, these solutions help enhance your brand visibility, save time, and foster customer engagement effectively.

31.  Safe and Trusted Canada WordPress website services offer a comprehensive solution for business owners who want a secure, professional, and customized online presence.  Websites are tailored to your specific needs, preferences, and feedback.  Incorporates your brand identity, ensuring a unique and professional look.  You own your domain, giving you complete control over your online identity.  Safe and Trusted Canada hosts your website on reliable servers, ensuring optimal performance and uptime.  Includes SSL certificates to encrypt data and protect user information, building trust with visitors.  Additional monitoring is done through Sucuri, a leading website security platform that protects against hacking, malware, and other cyber threats. Regular scans and alerts ensure vulnerabilities are addressed promptly. WordPress websites are built with search engine optimization (SEO) best practices in mind. This helps improve your website’s visibility and ranking on search engines.  WordPress websites can grow with your business, allowing you to add new features and pages easily as needed.  Safe and Trusted Canada’s WordPress website services provide business owners with a robust foundation for their online marketing efforts. By delivering customized, secure, and scalable websites, they help businesses establish a strong online presence while ensuring peace of mind through reliable hosting and advanced security measures.

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.