Social Proof: Gathering Customer Testimonials with AI
Written by Fred Ferguson – GeezerWise on Substack at www.geezerwise.com #Perplexity
Most businesses think they’re collecting testimonials… but end up with a pile of “great service” and “highly recommend” fluff.
The problem?
They ask customers for feedback without giving them direction — leaving it up to the customer to guess what to say.
That’s why most testimonials feel bland, fake, and useless in overcoming real buying objections.
How Perplexity changes the game
With Perplexity, you can uncover:
What concerns your prospects really have
Which results they care about most
What credibility cues make testimonials believable
Then, you can guide your customers to share specific proof that addresses those exact points.
Step 1: Identify common objections
What’s holding prospects back? Past bad experiences? Price fears? Trust issues?
Make sure your testimonials speak directly to those hesitations.
Step 2: Focus on results, not generic praise
What metrics matter to your audience?
What transformations do they want?
Results-focused testimonials hit harder than vague compliments.
Step 3: Make it believable
Details, real language, and specific outcomes = authenticity.
Cut the corporate-speak — keep it human.
Step 4: Choose the right voices
Testimonials from customers similar to your prospects carry the most weight. Match industry, role, or situation where possible.
Step 5: Pick the right format
Written, video, quick quote, or full case study — use the format that fits the channel and the message.
Step 6: Tap emotional impact
Surprise, delight, relief — testimonials that capture emotion stick in people’s minds.
Step 7: Support your unique claims
If you claim “fastest turnaround” or “highest success rate,” make sure your social proof backs it up.
Step 8: Make it easy to give
Remove friction. Give clear prompts. Offer recognition or small incentives if appropriate.
Step 9: Keep it current
Old testimonials feel stale. Refresh regularly so your social proof reflects your latest wins.
Step 10: Place it strategically
Landing pages, email sequences, sales presentations — put the right proof in the right place at the right time.
Bottom line:
You don’t need more testimonials. You need targeted testimonials that address objections, prove results, and feel authentic.
With Perplexity, you can turn customer stories into conversion tools — not just “nice to have” compliments.
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