I’m curious how people here feel about social proof messaging on eCommerce stores (e.g. “X people bought this today”, “selling fast”, recent activity indicators, etc.). On one hand, there’s plenty of data showing these kinds of messages can lift conversion rates and reduce hesitation — especially on considered purchases. On the other hand, I’ve heard strong opinions that they can feel: distracting or noisy “tacky” or not premium off-brand for certain retailers or even borderline manipulative if done poorly For those of you running or advising stores: Have you tested social proof and seen meaningful results? Did it ever clash with your brand or UX principles? Are there situations where you’d actively avoid it, even if conversion improves? Interested to hear real-world experiences rather than theory.
As a consumer - definitely tacky and I assume it's a lie and therefore trust the business less, way less.