When you want to understand what someone thinks or why they have done something, the tempting first port of call is often to simply ask them. Intuitively, this can feel like the most logical step;...
Articles
Why identical information can lead to polarising outcomes: the impact of cognitive dissonance and confirmation bias
I was recently asked to comment on how I thought people would react to new Covid scares after the Delta variant emerged; would they retreat from restaurants and shops, or continue enjoying this...
The Paradox of Choice
We live in a world with increasing amounts of choice - from 20+ jams at your local supermarket, to endless potential dates at the swipe of a screen. But having more options is always a good thing,...
The 3 Key Psychological Dimensions of Brands
Most businesses spend a lot of time talking and thinking about their ‘brand’. But that word has more layers than a telecom provider’s phone menu and, often, it means different things to different...
Six psychological tips to changing behaviour
1. Change the context Behaviour is often triggered by contextual factors; we automatically put on our seat belt as we sit in the car or decide we want a cup of coffee as we walk past Starbucks....
Six psychological tips to capturing customer attention in the 21st century
1. Minimise effort, maximise rewardHuman behaviour is largely underpinned by the desire to maximise reward whilst minimising effort. With this in mind, brands should strive to make their content as...
How to impress in a research debrief: Two questions you should never ask and three you should
The scene is set. A mosaic of twenty faces stare into the Zoom abyss, hoping to heaven that the next hour will be more interesting than the team meeting...
Four ways that focus groups could be leading you astray
Don’t get me wrong, I like a vol au vent and glass of wine as much as the next person. And I probably enjoy covertly watching people’s behaviour more than most (but not in a dodgy way). ...
Are they being served? A better approach to customer service research
Recently, I had a problem with a pair of golf shoes. So I contacted the customer service department of the global brand in question and asked if they could help. They did help, so I’m happy....
Exploring why Black Friday sales have dropped this year: a consumer psychology perspective
Black Friday sales have reportedly fallen by 16.7% compared to last year. Whilst all non-essential shops were closed in England, the lockdowns have pushed even the most reluctant to embrace online...