This podcast explores the power of sound in advertising and marketing, discussing the success of iconic jingles and the influence of sound in creating memorable experiences for consumers. They also introduce a mystery sound contest and share information about sponsors and ongoing promotions.
Sound can be used as a powerful tool in advertising to create desire and evoke emotions.
Audio branding, including mnemonics and memorable brand pronunciation, helps reinforce brand recognition and association.
Deep dives
The Power of Sound in Advertising
Advertisers have long utilized sound to embed brands in people's minds and persuade consumers. From catchy jingles like the Chili's Baby Back Ribs song to sound effects in Alka Seltzer commercials, sound has the ability to create desire and evoke certain emotions. Companies carefully choose sounds that are memorable and representative of their brand, such as the coin test sound in Old Dutch cleanser commercials or the sound of brewing coffee in Maxwell House ads. This use of sound as a selling tool has a long history in advertising and continues to be impactful in marketing today.
Creating Audio Branding
Many brands utilize audio mnemonics to create distinctive audio branding. Avon's inviting doorbell sound and Nokia's iconic ringtone are examples of mnemonics that effectively reinforce brand recognition. Intel used a 5-note mnemonic to brand commercials for computers with Intel chips and create demand for their products. Additionally, saying the brand's name in a memorable way, like Sega or Sony did in their commercials, can further strengthen brand association. By using audio branding techniques, companies are able to make their brand memorable and recognizable to consumers.
The Persuasive Effect of Sound
Sound has a unique ability to influence consumer behavior and drive purchasing decisions. Martin Lindstrom, a marketing writer, suggests that sounds create a desire for more, influencing our cravings, dreams, and preferences. For example, the absence of sound in slot machines in Las Vegas resulted in a 24% decline in revenue. Food marketing also relies on sound to enhance the sensory experience. The crunch of Kellogg's corn flakes or the opening sound of a can of Pringles are engineered to evoke specific associations and make consumers crave the products. Additionally, car manufacturers carefully engineer the sound of closing car doors to convey security and value. These examples demonstrate how sound can greatly impact our perceptions and actions.
Since the earliest days of commercial radio, companies have been using sound to worm their way into our brains. And over the decades, they’ve come up with all kinds of sonic tactics to make us want, crave and remember their products. In this episode, we take a whirlwind tour through the sounds of persuasion. This story was adapted from Under the Influence with Terry O’Reilly.