Authority vs Popularity: Which One Actually Grows Your Business?

Lori Osborne • September 7, 2025
Sign that says Popularity and sign that says Authority

We live in a world where likes, views, and follower counts scream for attention. But here’s the truth most Thought Leaders are starting to realize:


Popularity doesn’t pay the bills. Authority does.


o why are so many brilliant coaches, consultants, and experts still chasing popularity - while quietly wondering why their business feels stuck?


Let’s break it down.


The Real Difference: Popularity vs. Authority

Popularity is being seen. Authority is being trusted.


Popularity is easy to fake. You can buy followers, post every day, or hop on trends and rack up engagement. But authority? That’s built. Intentionally. Strategically. Authentically.


Authority is what turns browsers into buyers. It’s what makes someone click “book a call” after scrolling your website for 10 seconds. It’s what makes clients say, “I just knew you were the one.”


The Trap Most Experts Fall Into:

  • Obsessing over social media numbers but ignoring website messaging
  • Posting constantly but lacking brand clarity
  • Looking “successful” online but still getting unqualified leads - or no leads at all


You don’t need more noise. You need a platform that reflects your value, speaks your ideal client’s language, and positions you as the go-to expert in your space.


Ask Yourself:

  • Does my current brand reflect my values and voice?
  • Is my website actually converting leads - or is it just sitting there?
  • Am I focused on being known - or being trusted?


If you’re not sure - you are not alone! This is where most high-level experts find themselves when they’ve outgrown the DIY stage.


What To Do Instead:

Build your Authority Platform™. Not just a “better website” - a complete digital presence built to attract, nurture, and convert the right people.


Start with clarity. Not content. Start with trust. Not traffic. Start with you - your voice, your value, your vision.


Free Review to See Where You Stand:

Curious how your current platform stacks up?


👉 Book your Complimentary 15-Minute Clarity Review - it's free, personalized, and packed with insight. During this session, I’ll take an expert look at your website through the lens of your authority online. I will share a quick assessment of how it’s impacting your visibility with at least 3 action steps to boost your authority. I will also offer insight into how I can help you reach your goals faster and with less tech stress.


Whether or not we work together beyond this, my goal is simple: To give you immediate clarity, quick wins, and a fresh perspective from someone who gets it. Click here to book your Complimentary Clarity Review.


By Lori Osborne October 24, 2025
Let’s be real — growing a business solo can feel like shouting into the void. You’re showing up. You’re doing the work. But visibility feels like a grind... especially online. Here’s the truth: You don’t need more hustle. You need more allies. That’s where strategic partnerships, affiliates, and joint ventures come in. The most successful Thought Leaders and Influencers don’t just build authority - they amplify it through aligned relationships. Here’s how these power moves can skyrocket your visibility: ✨ Joint Ventures When two (or more) aligned brands collaborate on a service, webinar, or offer, magic happens. You get in front of an already-warmed audience - one that trusts the person introducing you. How to start: Partner with someone whose audience needs what you offer. Host a co-branded training, launch a mini-series, or create a bundle. ✨ Affiliates An affiliate is someone who refers others to your services and earns a percentage when the lead converts. The win? You only pay when you get paid. It’s low-risk and high-reward, especially when you make it easy for affiliates to promote. ✅ And, on that note, I’m sweetening the deal for my affiliate partners right now! 💥 Get 30% commission (instead of our regular 10%) on your first referred sale made before December 31, 2025 ! (This applies to new affiliate partners AND existing affiliate partners!) ➡️ Sign up here to become a BizBolster affilate: Affiliate Sign-Up Here . ✨ Strategic Alliances Not quite a JV, not just an affiliate... these are longer-term, deeply aligned collaborations. Maybe you refer clients to each other regularly, bundle your services together, or feature one another in your content. The key: mutual benefit and shared values. 💡 Why This Works Borrow trust from other respected experts Expand your reach without ads Positions you as a connector, and people remember that More visibility with zero tech overwhelm ✨ Let’s Rise Together As someone who builds Authority Platforms™ for Thought Leaders, I know how important it is to stop operating in isolation. Whether you’re ready to collaborate, refer, or just want to dip your toes into the affiliate waters, I invite you to join forces. It’s not about doing more. It’s about being seen more! And you don’t have to do it alone. Let’s grow, together! 📌 Ready to earn 30% on your first referral before Dec 31? 👉 Click here to become a BizBolster affiliate .
By Lori Osborne October 3, 2025
Why Online Authority Starts with Clear, Consistent Branding... Everywhere You Show Up!
Picture of my radiation mask from brain reatment
By Lori Osborne July 31, 2025
What if the very thing that broke you became the catalyst for your brilliance? Your story isn’t just a “nice to have.” It’s the foundation of your authority.