Social proof and testimonials are powerful ways to persuade your website visitors to take action. They show that other people have trusted you, benefited from your offer, or enjoyed your content. But how do you use them effectively in your calls to action (CTAs)? Here are some tips to help you boost your conversions with social proof and testimonials in your CTAs.
Numbers can catch the eye and add credibility to your claims. Instead of saying "Join thousands of happy customers", try saying "Join 5,432 happy customers today". This shows that you have a large and precise customer base, and creates a sense of urgency and scarcity. You can also use numbers to highlight your ratings, reviews, or awards. For example, "Rated 4.9 out of 5 by 273 customers" or "Winner of the Best Content Award 2020".
I incorporate social proof and testimonials into CTAs by citing customer reviews, ratings, or expert endorsements. This showcases the value of the product/service and builds trust. An example could be, "Join the 10,000+ customers who love our product – Try it now!". Such CTAs instill confidence and encourage action
Testimonials are personal stories that showcase how your product, service, or content solved a problem or fulfilled a need for your customers. They can be written, audio, or video, depending on your format and audience. The key is to choose testimonials that are relevant to your CTA and your target market. For example, if your CTA is to sign up for a free trial, use testimonials that highlight the benefits of the trial, not the features of the full product. If your CTA is to download a guide, use testimonials that show how the guide helped someone achieve a specific goal or overcome a challenge.
Social proof badges are logos or icons that indicate that you have been featured, endorsed, or certified by a reputable source. They can be media outlets, industry associations, influencers, or partners. They can help you establish authority, trust, and credibility in your niche. Display them near your CTA to reinforce your value proposition and persuade your visitors to click. For example, if you are offering a course, you can display badges from recognized educational platforms, accreditation bodies, or experts.
Social media buttons are another way to use social proof in your CTAs. They allow your visitors to share your content, offer, or landing page with their networks, increasing your exposure and reach. They also show how many people have already shared your content, creating a bandwagon effect and a fear of missing out (FOMO). Add social media buttons to your CTA to encourage your visitors to spread the word and join the conversation. For example, if you are hosting a webinar, you can add buttons to invite your visitors to register and share the event with their friends.
The best way to find out what works for your audience and your goals is to test and optimize your CTAs. You can use tools like Google Analytics, Google Optimize, or Hotjar to measure and improve your CTA performance. You can test different elements of your CTA, such as the wording, the design, the placement, or the type of social proof and testimonials. You can also use feedback forms, surveys, or interviews to collect insights from your customers and prospects. By testing and optimizing your CTAs, you can increase your conversions and grow your business.