TLDR

Place proof inside onboarding screens and key settings. Use one sentence quotes, three line snippets with timeframe and source, and short captioned clips. Trigger proof after stalls, not on every visit. Measure setup completion, paid starts, and refund rate. Refresh monthly.

Why this works

People open the app to finish a task. A quick, relevant result from someone like them reduces doubt, cuts support tickets, and moves them to the next step without leaving the screen.

Where proof belongs in the product

Empty states
Add two short quotes under the “no data yet” message. Keep each to one sentence.

Checklists and setup flows
Show one snippet under steps with friction, domain, calendar, first funnel, first automation. Include timeframe and source.

Help panels and drawers
Embed one 30 to 60 second captioned clip. Label with name, role, and topic so users know what they will learn.

Pricing bars and upgrade prompts
Pair the cost line with one matched snippet. People decide faster when the result sits next to the number.

Templates and galleries
Place a micro quote on each template tile. “Shipped first leads in 30 days, GA4 and CRM.”

Simple patterns that feel human

• Use first name and role when you have permission, or anonymize and keep the source.
• Keep quotes under 120 characters.
• Keep clips under 60 seconds, captions on, autoplay off.
• Put the source in the line, GA4, Stripe, CRM. No footnotes.

Triggers that show proof when it helps

• Show after 30 seconds of stall on a setup step.
• Show after two failed attempts, for example DNS or calendar auth.
• Show on return visits to an unfinished step.
• Hide after completion and do not nag on the next screen.

Copy you can paste

Empty state quote
“Setup took one afternoon, first leads the next day.”, Ana, Agency Owner, 2025-06-12

Snippet under pricing math
“8 demos per month, many no shows.
Added calendar routing and a 7 day follow up.
17 demos in 30 days, CRM export.”

Clip label in help panel
“Home services, first 30 days, 38 leads, GA4 plus CRM.”

Light rules that keep trust

• Never block the task with a modal. Keep proof inline or in a side panel.
• Never script numbers. Trim for length, do not change meaning.
• Never use a logo without permission. Use name and role if unclear.
• Always remove on request within 72 hours and confirm.

Metrics to watch

• Setup completion rate for each step that shows proof.
• Time to first publish or first automation live.
• Upgrade or paid start rate within 7 days.
• Refund rate at 30 days for users who saw proof versus those who did not.

Weekly readout, short and clear

• Steps where proof lifted completion.
• Steps where proof had no effect two weeks in a row.
• One placement to promote, one to retire, one to test next.
• Any removals or consent notes.

Troubleshooting

• If people ignore proof, move it closer to the button and shorten the line.
• If stalls persist, swap the quote for a clip or a snippet that matches the step.
• If claims get pushback, add “view source” links in tooltips and keep screenshots crisp and redacted.
• If load feels heavy, compress thumbnails under 200 kB and lazy load panels.

Maintenance rhythm

Replace items older than 180 days. Rotate by topic, onboarding, migration, first results, retention. Sync with your monthly proof refresh so app and site stay aligned.

FAQ

Where should I start in the app
Start with the steps that block progress, domain, calendar, first funnel, and first automation. Add one proof item per step.

How many proof items per screen
One. Clutter kills attention. Keep the main action visible.

Do I need video
Not at launch. Quotes and snippets are enough. Add clips where users hesitate the most.

How do I keep this from feeling like ads
Use plain wording, real numbers, and clear sources. Place proof as a helpful hint, not a takeover.

How often should I refresh in app proof
Review monthly alongside your site proof. Replace anything older than 180 days and after plan or pricing changes.