M.E. Sharpe, Inc - Article

The Journal of Marketing Theory and Practice
	Issue:	Volume 20, Number 1 / Winter 2012
	Pages:	39 - 58
	URL:	Linking Options
	DOI:	10.2753/MTP1069-6679200103

Gender Differences in Trust Formation in Virtual Communities Constance Elise Porter A1, Naveen Donthu A2, Andrew Baker A3 A1 Department of Marketing, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN A2 Department of Marketing, J. Mack Robinson College of Business, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA A3 Department of Marketing, San Diego State University, San Diego, CA Abstract: Building trust with consumers leads to higher sales, profits, and loyalty, and gender is an important marketing variable. Yet it remains unknown whether gender differences exist in the trust formation process online. Noting the importance of social media in marketing strategy, this study explores how gender affects the process of trust formation online with a survey of 232 virtual community members. By integrating social role theory with the uses and gratifications approach, this study reveals that gender moderates the effect of managerially controlled trust influencers. Managers can use these guidelines to build trust online, considering the role of gender. The references of this article are secured to subscribers.

M.E. Sharpe, Inc - Article