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Writer's pictureJohnna Ehmke

The Subtle Art of Persuading Your Customers Without Them Knowing

Updated: Aug 7

As a marketing manager, you're always trying to find that sweet spot between getting results and not annoying your customers. If you’ve ever wished for a way to give your audience a gentle nudge in the right direction without being pushy, nudge marketing is your answer. It’s all about using small, clever prompts to guide your customers towards the actions you want them to take, making your job a bit easier and helping you get better results without breaking a sweat.


Nudge Marketing Strategies for Online Shopping

So, how does it work? Nudge marketing is like giving your customers a gentle push in the right direction without them realising it or becoming offended by it. Whether you're looking to boost sales, encourage opt-ins, or get people to share your content on social media, nudge marketing can help.


Let’s break down some of the most effective types of nudges you can use in your marketing strategy.


1. Notification Nudge

What it is: A notification nudge taps into the power of social proof and urgency. It informs customers about trends, price drops, or limited-time offers.

Example: An e-commerce site might show a notification saying, "10 people just bought this lawn mower in the last hour!" to create a sense of popularity and urgency.


2. Review Nudge

What it is: Review nudges build social proof by highlighting positive customer feedback, making new customers feel more confident in their purchase. Example: Displaying a customer testimonial on a product page, like, “See why over 200 happy customers love this versatile cashmere wrap!”


3. Upsell Nudge

What it is: Upsell nudges recommend additional products that complement the customer’s current choice, increasing the average order value.

Example: Showing “Customers who bought this lavender shower gel also bought...” suggestions on the checkout page.


4. Discount Nudge

What it is: Offering a discount in exchange for a small action, like subscribing to a newsletter, can drive both immediate and future engagement.

Example: “Get 10% off your first order when you sign up for our newsletter!”


5. Highlight Nudge

What it is: This nudge draws attention to a specific attribute or offer, making it stand out on a page.

Example: A bright, attention-grabbing button saying “Limited Time Offer!” on the page with those cute strappy sandals.


6. Cause Marketing Nudge

What it is: Connecting your brand with a cause can create a deeper emotional connection with your customers.

Example: “10% of every purchase goes to support wildlife conservation.”


7. Scarcity Nudge

What it is: This nudge plays on the fear of missing out by showing low stock levels or limited-time availability.

Example: Using banners or pop ups that say, “Only 5 left—order before they’re gone!”


8. Wishlist Nudge

What it is: Encouraging customers to save items to a wishlist helps keep your brand top-of-mind for future purchases.

Example: “Save this item to your wishlist and get notified when it’s back in stock.”


9. Freebie Nudge

What it is: Offering a free gift or consultation can attract first-time visitors or those hesitant to buy.

Example: “Get a free makeup consultation with any NARS foundation purchase over $50.”


10. Reassurance Nudge

What it is: This nudge provides assurance and builds trust to reduce cart abandonment.

Example: Displaying a “Free returns within 30 days” message on the checkout page.


11. Upsell Pop-up Nudge

What it is: A pop-up that encourages customers to add more items to their cart by offering discounts or bonuses.

Example: “Add one more item to your cart and get a free gift!”


12. Benefit Nudge

What it is: Highlighting the specific benefits of a product can help sway customers towards making a purchase.

Example: “This serum reduces wrinkles and improves skin elasticity—see results in just two weeks!”


Incorporating these nudges into your marketing strategy can subtly guide your customers towards the actions you want them to take, all while enhancing their overall experience.


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