The Dos & Don’ts of using Social Proof in Marketing

Social proof like positive customer reviews is the new marketing tactic that help dealers build trust in their businesses.

Here are a few important dos and don’ts of social proof marketing.

Dos

1. Promote Positive Social Proof

Positive social proof improves trust in your dealership. Prospective customers research these reviews even before they contact the dealership.

Include social proof in your car dealer website, social media, and promotional campaigns.

2. Images & Videos Help in Social Proof Marketing

Pictures and videos, including the reviewers’ pictures or videos, make social proof more persuasive than just text. Try to add them. Using apps like Buyerater can make this process seamless and easy for both customers and prospects.

3. Use Stories for Better Connection

Compelling stories are more memorable than just descriptive statements.  

Using your customers’ stories as social proof can drive even more customers.

4. Build Authority

Posting social proof including content from your industry experts and local influencers can position your dealership as a dependable and authoritative store.

Since influencers would have already earned the trust of their followers, posting influencer content as social proof can prove to be a huge plus.

Don’ts

1. Customers Don’t Trust Perfect Proof As Well

It is hard for customers to trust perfect 5-star ratings. A couple of negative reviews in between may do more good than harm, especially if they have been addressed promptly and the customer left a thank you note in the comments.

2. Stay Away from Manufactured Social Proof

The social proof posted on your business pages should be trustworthy. Always add a name and a face to your social proof. Untrustworthy reviews can hurt your conversion rate and impact sales.