How Tapping into Emotions Plays a Larger Role in Building Brand Trust

The science of selling is changing. With the growth of social media, tapping into emotions has become an increasingly influential part of decision making. Although statistical data hasn’t gone to the wayside, consumers look to fellow purchasers for their opinions of, or experiences with, businesses, as well as goods and services. It’s these experiences and interactions that form people’s opinions and in turn, influence brand trust.

During a Southeastern Wisconsin PRSA luncheon, Eric Goering, manager of global system communications for McDonald’s, discussed the idea of brand trust, commenting, “No one wants to feel like a guinea pig. Consumers want to know that a product or service is already safe and effective.” Referencing McDonald’s new “field to fork” commercials, he continued by suggesting that the value proposition now takes a different form – facts mean less and emotions mean more.

In addition to McDonald’s new commercials, Chipotle has leveraged its new sustainable farming campaign to make that emotional connection with consumers. The commercial has been largely popular among audiences because of its honest, authentic message, which plays into consumers’ demands – products that are fresh, locally grown and nutritious, while also helping to boost the nation’s agriculture industry.

Today, the story is becoming more about these relationships, which highlight a company’s commitment to quality and consistency that drive customer decisions. In turn, those decisions are now broadcast across social networks, earning businesses positive word-of-mouth marketing that ultimately increases sales and new opportunities overtime. In the same vein, this idea should resonate with B2B companies, as true partnerships, not just one-off relationships, become critical to future success.

Have you seen good examples of companies tapping into customers’ emotions? If so, what made it compelling?