3 simple steps to build social proof as an emerging entrepreneur

Starting a business is exciting, although its not always easy at the begining. One of the biggest challenges for new businesses is earning trust, especially when you don’t have any clients or an online presence yet. So how do you get potential customers to put their trust in your brand?

The answer: Social proof.

What Is Social Proof (and Why Does It Work)?

Social proof is the idea that people tend to follow the actions of those around them. In Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion, Robert Cialdini explains, “We view a behaviour as more correct in a given situation to the degree that we see others performing it.” In other words, people trust what others endorse.

For example, if you see a long line of people outside a restaurant, you can assume the food is good. eg when we see other people enjoying something, we trust that it is good.

As a business owner, you can use social proof to establish credibility and encourage purchases. Here are three effective ways you can do it — even if you’re just starting out.

1. Leverage Reviews (without sales)

Think about the last time you bought something online. Did you check the reviews first…