This post will be the first of many. The subject is no more or less important than the rest, it is simply the point where we dive in.
I am currently focusing on my Marketing class, specifically the chapter on the buyer behavior process. We are looking closely at the process that happens when a person buys a product — from the moment the potential buyer becomes aware of the product through the purchase and their reflection afterwards.
It is a narrow path. There are many places a person can lose the interest, ability, or inclination to buy a product.
It all starts with a problem. A buyer encounters some issue in their life that needs attention. They recognize the issue and start a search for information about possible solutions. They evaluate alternatives before finally making a decision. If they make the purchase, they then evaluate the results. They may extend praise about the product, say nothing, or even seek recourse if the experience was bad.
There is a myriad of factors that influence consumer behavior. These factors can be broad, touching nearly every aspect of the person's life — like age, culture, occupation, social class, and economic status. The factors can also be narrower in scope, such as an opinion or a current preference.
There are different types of buying behaviors as well, such as complex, habitual, or variety-seeking buying behaviors. It's important to take the behaviors into consideration when developing marketing strategies.
I'm not sure I found anything in this chapter particularly surprising. But I do think it was important to fully unpack the subject and really look at the finer points. After all, the devil is in the details.
I will certainly be thinking about this as I move forward in life, and I will try to be mindful of the thoughts and feelings leading up to my next purchase.
