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How to Write a Case Study That Builds Trust and Wins Clients

Case studies demonstrate your experience and expertise while building your authority and trust so you can win more business.

December 20, 2024 — Simon Kelly

How to Write a Case Study That Builds Trust and Wins Clients

Case studies are one of the most effective ways to build trust with your target market.

Done well, they show real results, tell a compelling story, and make it easy for someone to imagine what’s it’s like to work with you.

This article covers why case studies work, how to structure them effectively, and includes a free template you can copy to get started.

Let’s dive in!

Download our free case study template

Why Case Studies Work

According to BrightLocal, 49% of people trust reviews and case studies as much as personal recommendations.

That’s powerful!

A great case study gives readers a clear picture of the transformation your clients have experienced — and how your business helped make it happen.

What Makes a Good Case Study?

1. Keep it Clear and Concise

A good case study should be easy to understand.

Aim for around 800–1,200 words — enough to tell the full story, but short enough to keep your reader engaged.

2. Use a Simple Story Structure

The best case studies follow a story arc:

  • The problem: What challenge was your client facing?
  • The solution: How did your product or service help?
  • The result: What changed after working with you?

Your client is the hero of the story — your business is the guide that helped them succeed.

3. Include Data and Visual Proof

Use numbers to back up the transformation:

“We increased conversion rates from 4% to 20% in one month.”

Include before-and-after images, charts, or videos if relevant — especially for visual projects like web design or renovations.

4. Make It Easy to Read

Use headings, bullet points, and images to break up the text.

This helps busy readers scan the content and get value quickly.

Case Studies Are Sales Tools (Without the Hard Sell)

While a case study supports your sales efforts, it should never feel like a pitch.

Focus on the client’s journey and the results they achieved.

That’s what builds trust and positions your business as the expert.

Free Download: Case Study Template

Want to start writing stronger case studies?

Our copywriting team created a simple, fill-in-the-blanks case study template to make the process easy.

Download our free case study template

Once you’ve opened the doc, go to File > Make a copy, and start building your own library of trust-building case studies.

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Author

Simon Kelly

Simon Kelly is the CEO and Head of Growth at SGD. Simon started his first web agency in 2009 which he merged with the SGD team in 2023. With a strong background in digital strategy and a history of working with fast-growing Australian companies, including CyberCX, Envato and Agency Mavericks, he's passionate about using ethical digital marketing that delivers business value. Simon's experience includes coaching digital agencies, running digital marketing workshops, driving growth and excellence within the SGD team.

Read more posts by Simon Kelly

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