Have you ever relied on the advice of friends and family before making a decision or purchase? A recent study shows that people are 50% more likely to listen to the advice of friends and family over an expert in the field. But in a poll, 40% of people say they later wished they’d sought out more expert advice beforehand. Known as “social proof,” which refers to the “wisdom of friends”, was first coined in 1984. Itow.)
Behavioral scientists say we prefer advice from friends and family because “we instinctively trust them, and believe that they have our best interests at heart.” Plus, if we follow the advice of our social circle, we may feel more reassured and supported in that decision. And there’s also “simplicity bias”, preferring a simple opinion, rather than digging through an answer that has more complexity, even if the complex one is more informed, realistic, and balanced.
In a separate poll, 28% of people say they “deliberately” avoid seeking advice from experts in favor of going with the opinion of friends and family. But half of the people in the poll say they “stopped being friends with someone who gave them bad advice.” And 40% admit that they later wished they’d sought more expert advice before making a big life decision.
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