The Reasons We Buy

Recent research has confirmed that people often do not know why they buy. The psychology behind consumer choices can best be explained by people like Kevin Hogan or Philip Graves. Below is a list of 36 reasons why people might buy your product or service. The list can be a powerful reference source when you are developing your marketing plan.

1. They need what you are selling
2. Recommendation from a friend
3. They like you
4. You are attractive
5. They heard about you or your product from the media
6. They have no clue, but your product fills a deep psychological need
7. They have purchased from you before
8. You are an independent business
9. You support a cause they believe in
10. You have a great reputation
11. Price
12. You have confused or manipulated them (this is not recommended and it will eventually destroy your reputation)
13. You offer a strong guarantee
14. They have sampled your product
15. They are drawn to the smell of your product
16. Your product is unique and they are curious
17. Status
18. You can provide the product or service quickly
19. You are a friend or relative
20. Color
21. Your packaging
22. Convenience
23. Your product has a beautiful design
24. To feel better
25. To solve a problem
26. Great taste
27. Social Proof
28. To resell
29. To save time
30. To look more attractive
31. To relax
32. To relieve pain
33. To make work easier
34. To protect themselves or their family
35. Social Pressure
36. To increase knowledge

I have purposely left off additional reasons customers buy. Put your marketing and sales skills to the test. Let's see if you can add a few more to the list.