My adventure with Iowa State University began long before I ever unpacked a suitcase in Larch Hall. In fact, the very first time I “visited” the campus, I barely visited it at all. It was more of a joyride with two of my brothers— Tom, and Dave — at a time in our lives when a drive across state lines counted as both exploration and entertainment. I was young, edging into adulthood, and they were all a few steps ahead of me, showing me what freedom looked like. Early in my senior year at high school I had narrowed my college choices to the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities, Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, the University of Wisconsin in Madison, WI, Cornell University in Ithaca, NY, and Iowa State in Ames, IA. All great engineering schools. This would be my first college trip.
10 Principles of
Psychology in Marketing
10 Principles of
Psychology in Marketing
Here’s a detailed explanation of the 10 principles of psychology in marketing, which are essential for understanding how to influence consumer behavior:
1. Reciprocity
This principle is based on the idea that people feel the need to return a favor when someone does something for them. In marketing, this is used by offering something of value to consumers for free (like a sample, advice, or discount), which generates a sense of obligation for them to return the favor, either by purchasing the product or sharing the brand.
Example: Offering a free sample of a product or an educational resource, which can generate the intention to buy from the consumer.
2. Scarcity
Scarcity makes a product or service more desirable. People value what is limited or difficult to obtain. This creates urgency in consumers, motivating them to make quick purchase decisions to avoid missing the opportunity.
Example: Using phrases like "Limited offer," "Only 3 left in stock," or "Last days to take advantage of this promotion."
3. Authority
People tend to follow figures of authority or experts. If a product or brand is promoted by an authority figure (such as an influencer or expert in the field), consumers are more likely to trust it.
Example: Testimonials from professionals or celebrities in a relevant field, such as doctors recommending a supplement or technology experts talking about a gadget.
4. Consistency
People have a natural tendency to be consistent with what they’ve said or done in the past. If you can get consumers to commit to a small action (like signing up for newsletters), they’re more likely to follow up with bigger actions in the future.
Example: Getting a user to sign up for a newsletter and then offering them a discount on a purchase.
5. Liking
People are more likely to buy products from brands they identify with or feel an affinity for. Positive emotions play a big role in buying decisions. If a consumer feels a brand shares their values or is likable, they’re more likely to choose that brand over others.
Example: Creating a brand identity that resonates with the target audience’s values by using colors, language, and shared values.
6. Social Proof
The principle of social proof is based on the idea that people tend to follow the actions of others, especially in uncertain situations. If a product is recommended or endorsed by others, it is perceived as more trustworthy.
Example: Displaying reviews, testimonials, or recommendations from other customers to show that the product or service is popular and effective.
7. Visual Appeal
Images and visual elements have a significant impact on the perception of a product or brand. Colors, design, and aesthetics can influence how a consumer feels about it and their decision to purchase.
Example: Using a color palette that evokes specific feelings, such as warm colors that convey energy and confidence, or cool colors for a more relaxed and professional design.
8. Urgency
Creating a sense of urgency can drive consumers to act quickly. The feeling that an opportunity is slipping away can be a powerful motivator for quick decisions.
Example: Offering limited-time promotions, discounts for a limited period, or warning that a product is about to sell out.
9. Emotions
Emotional marketing directly appeals to consumers' feelings. Emotions can be a decisive factor in purchasing a product, as consumers tend to make decisions based more on how they feel than on what they rationally think.
Example: Creating advertising campaigns that emotionally connect with the target audience, such as ads that foster nostalgia, happiness, or a sense of belonging.
10. Anchoring
This principle suggests that people make decisions based on the first information they receive, which acts as an "anchor." If a higher price is shown first, the next price (even if it’s lower) will seem like a great deal because the human mind compares.
Example: Showing a premium, high-priced product first and then a standard, lower-priced product, making the latter appear to be a bargain.
Remember, the key to success is to emotionally connect with your audience and be consistent with the value you provide.

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Tim is a graduate of Iowa State University and has a Mechanical Engineering degree. He spent 40 years in Corporate America before retiring and focusing on other endeavors. He is active with his loving wife and family, volunteering, keeping fit, running the West Egg businesses, and writing blogs and articles for the newspaper.
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My Last Week of High School
Most people remember their last week of senior year as a blur of finals, yearbook signatures, and the thrill of freedom just beyond the edge of graduation. I always thought mine would be the same. I pictured a week full of celebration, a little bit of mischief, and a slow fade into summer before heading off to college in the fall. But life had something different in mind for me. My final week as a senior at New Lisbon High School was not about parties, pranks, or planning the future. It was about survival, responsibility, fear, hope, and a kind of growing up that most 18-year-olds never have to face.

