Don’t ask before providing value
Asking for too much information too soon can undermine users' trust. When users encounter login walls or gated content before seeing any value, they may feel that their time and privacy are not respected. This can lead to frustration and a quick exit from the site. The site’s requests and the users’ trust needs must be in equilibrium: Don’t make demands at higher levels of commitment until you’ve addressed all the trust needs at the initial levels.
To introduce a more user-friendly approach, try these steps:
- Provide immediate value: Allow users to explore some content or features before asking for personal information. For example, a fitness app could offer a few free workout videos before prompting users to sign up.
- Clear purpose: When asking for information, explain why it’s needed and how it will benefit the user. For instance, a grocery delivery site could explain that entering an address helps display local stores and available products.
- Progressive engagement: Gradually request more information as users engage deeper with the service. Start with basic, non-intrusive questions and build up to more detailed information as users see the value in doing so.[1]
References
- Hierarchy of Trust: The 5 Experiential Levels of Website Commitment | Nielsen Norman Group