Unless prospective customers can trust your brand, they won’t be buying from you. No matter how compelling the rest of your ad campaigns might be. That’s why including elements that emphasize how well-protected any subsequent interactions is key. Even financial transactions matter in your promotional efforts to build customer trust.
This sounds good as an idea, but you need to know how to go about it. Here’s a few things you can focus on to ensure would-be buyers know they can put their faith in you.
Highlighting SSL Certificates and HTTPS Protocols in Marketing Materials for Customer Trust
Modern consumers are well versed in the impact that SSL certificates and HTTPS protocols have in facilitating secure online transactions. As such, highlighting these elements in your marketing materials is sure to kindle the flames of trust. Consequently, it will coax people that encounter them to convert.
Why does this matter? Put simply, customers equate security with credibility. Displaying clear signals of protection lets you reassure them that their data is safe in your hands. Consider including:
- Visible Trust Indicators: Use padlock icons next to your URL or within ad copy to immediately signal a secure connection.
- Prominent HTTPS Usage: Ensure all landing pages linked from ads use HTTPS, emphasizing this protocol’s presence boosts confidence.
- Certification Badges: Feature recognizable SSL certification badges (e.g., Norton Secured) prominently on ad visuals and landing pages.
- Security-Focused Messaging: Integrate phrases like “Secure Checkout,” “Protected Transactions,” or “Data Encryption Guaranteed” into headlines and descriptions.
Make sure that ad copy is industry-specific. Both in terms of how the main selling points are conveyed and how you cover the security features available.
For instance if you run a travel business, talking up the availability of quick and secure VAT refunds for customers buying in regions where this tax does not apply. It can be claimed back post-purchase is a wise move.
The Role of PCI DSS Compliance in Gaining Customer Trust
Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) compliance is another aspect of building customer trust. In particular since there was a 78% rise in breaches last year, so scrutiny on businesses and brands is at an all-time high.
Here’s how you can integrate this cleanly into your next ad campaigns:
- Clear Compliance Statements: Explicitly mention your adherence to PCI DSS standards within ad copy and landing pages. You don’t need to go overboard, as just a quick inclusion will do the trick.
- Trust Badges: As with SSL certificates, it’s sensible to display recognizable PCI compliant logos or seals prominently, adding an extra layer of reassurance for customers.
- Detailed Security Policies: Offer easy access to detailed security policies that outline how you comply with PCI DSS requirements, reinforcing transparency. Including a QR code in ads that links to this page on your site is an unfussy way of doing this.
- Training Awareness Campaigns: Highlight ongoing employee training on payment security as part of your marketing strategy, showing a commitment to continuous improvement.
Utilizing Multi-Factor Authentication to Reassure Customers
Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) enhances security by requiring users to provide two or more verification factors. There was a real spike in the adoption of MFA last year, with a 52.3% uptick seen in market leader Germany, and a 13.4% rise in the US.
In order to draw attention to the availability of MFA when putting together a new marketing campaign, take the following steps:
- Ad Copy Emphasis: Incorporate phrases like “Secure Login with Multi-Factor Authentication” directly into ad copy. You’ll need to tweak this according to the platform the ad is featuring on, of course, as there are different requirements for copywriting on a platform like Facebook compared with campaigns appearing elsewhere, for instance.
- Visual Elements: Use icons representing MFA, such as phone verification or fingerprint scans, in ads and on landing pages.
- Customer Education: Include brief educational content within ads explaining how MFA adds an extra layer of protection against unauthorized access.
- User Testimonials: Feature testimonials from satisfied customers who appreciate the added security provided by MFA, while also taking time to highlight that it is convenient to use. You want prospects to see this as a benefit rather than a burden!
Final Thoughts
Turning the spotlight on secure transaction capabilities might not seem that significant when you’re working on marketing materials, but the truth is that without this emphasis, customer trust won’t be earned in the first place – and existing goodwill could even be eroded.
Now you know how to go about it, don’t hesitate to tweak existing ads with this in mind, as well as making adjustments to new ones.