Understanding cognitive biases can inform marketing and advertising strategies in businesses. Availability bias causes individuals to rely on immediate information, which is easily accessible, instead of thorough research. If it comes to mind easily, we think it is more true or likely than if it doesn’t come to mind as easily. Of course, that isn’t always the case. Availability bias can deeply influence decision-making processes both within a company and for its customers. For businesses, understanding this bias can provide pivotal insights about consumer behavior–one great way to use this, which host Melina Palmer discusses in detail throughout the episode, is in pitching your business and getting PR.
During the podcast, Melina vividly illustrates the concept through examples, such as the typically contrasting associations with the words “shark” and “cow.” She points out that these associations are borne out of the easily available information about these animals, rather than a comprehensive understanding of their respective behaviors. (Which do you think is more deadly? If you said a shark…you’re in for a surprise!) Understanding availability bias and how it can be leveraged is essential for business owners and marketers to craft strategies that share the right message at the right time.
In this episode:
- Unlock insights into availability bias and its impact on decision-making.
- Hear some fun examples — like, should you be more scared of sharks or cows? — that will show how your own mind is tricking you regularly.
- Learn why you should be following trends (and predicting them) so you communicate the right messages at the right time.
- Hear the fascinating story of the diamond industry and how they used availability bias to shape the narrative.
- Find out what HARO is, and how it can help your business to gain visibility along with availability bias.
