advertising techniques - english

music

a particular song or annoying jingle that identifies a particular product  (ex. I'm lovin' it!)

colour

strong, bold, bright colours in the ad or a certain product will be associated with a particular colour

facts and figures

some ads rely on (scientific) facts and figures to convince you of the quality of their product 

perfection

use this product and you will be just like the people in this ad, perfection is possible

endorsement

from a well known media figure, message saying: well if I use this product it must be fantastic!

bandwagon

everyone is using it, so you should too!

testimonies

this is actual ‘real’ people telling you about the product, we will believe our peers

repetition

the name of the product is said over and over again to make sure that we remember it

comparison

advertiser compares to other leading brands but theirs is obviously the best!

wit and humour

advertisements that make people laugh are often winners

snob appeal

using this exclusive product makes you special. Often with people in smart clothes …

beauty

beautiful women, handsome men help to sell a product

exaggeration

where the benefits to your life of the product will be overstated

controversy

purposely say, show or do something controversial to make us think about and remember the ad / product

cuteness

the little furry puppies, the smiling, laughing, happy babies, the ‘AAW’ factor!

annoyance

an annoying or irritating ad can be as effective if not better than an ad you really enjoy!

emotion

trying to move people emotionally