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Vying for seats in the C-suite: Marketing and PR's focus is too narrow, Baylor study finds

A Baylor University study found that marketing and PR teams often compete for limited C-suite spots due to perceived similarities in their roles. The research highlights distinct contributions of corporate communications and marketing, suggesting both groups need to build internal relationships to educate colleagues on their value.

SourceBaylor University·JournalJournal of Communication Management·DateMay 11, 2015

Buyers with a trade-in get a raw deal

New research from USC Marshall School of Business shows that consumers who trade in their used cars pay an average of $990 more than those without a trade-in. Dealers infer a higher willingness to pay and charge higher prices based on the characteristics of the trade-in vehicle.

SourceUSC Marshall School of Business·JournalJournal of Industrial Economics·DateApr 30, 2015

Giving to charity: Feeling love means doing more for distant strangers

A new study in the Journal of Marketing Research reveals that love alone can inspire people to give to those with whom they have no connection. The study found that only emotional love, not closely related emotions like compassion, increased the desire to donate to distant charities. This finding has serious implications for marketers ...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateApr 29, 2015

Predicting consumer preferences? Do NOT walk a mile in their shoes

A new study in the Journal of Marketing Research found that marketing managers' attempts to imagine themselves as consumers lead to biased predictions, with their own preferences taking over. The researchers conducted four studies and discovered that by acknowledging this bias, managers can overcome it and make more customer-centric de...

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateFeb 25, 2015

Not so obvious: Consumers don't just assume bundled products are a better value

A new study in Journal of Consumer Research reveals that consumers may not perceive bundled products as a better value. Retailers need to highlight the benefits of package deals to attract customers. By presenting both individual and bundled options, businesses can make consumers aware of the added value and increase sales

SourceUniversity of Chicago Press Journals·JournalJournal of Consumer Research·DateJan 21, 2015

Store remodelling benefits bottom line

Research from Monash University found that store remodelling increases retail sales by nearly 50%, with new customers driving a 43-44% increase in sales. Existing customers see a 7-10% boost. The study suggests remodelling should be viewed as a marketing investment to retain and attract new customers.

SourceMonash University·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateDec 22, 2014

Traffic light labels can give a false sense of security

A study by TUM researchers found that traffic light labeling can lead to a false sense of security and result in consumers ignoring more complex product information. This effect is particularly pronounced in financial products where the labeling influences consumer trust in specific attributes, such as flexibility or state guarantee.

SourceTechnical University of Munich (TUM)·JournalInternational Journal of Consumer Studies·DateJun 26, 2014

Peer problem solving leads to operational efficiency

A new study reveals that peer-to-peer problem solving can lessen the need for firms to contact their supplier for traditional customer support services. By leveraging collective knowledge and wisdom of customer communities, firms can conserve time and resources associated with traditional support services.

SourceBoston College·JournalJournal of Service Research·DateJun 25, 2014

Soldiers who kill in combat less likely to abuse alcohol

Researchers found that killing experiences may cause soldiers to become more aware of their own mortality, triggering a focus on self-preservation and reduced high-risk alcohol consumption. The study suggests that this increased sense of vulnerability leads to decreased alcohol abuse rates among soldiers who have killed in combat.

SourceAmerican University·JournalDrug and Alcohol Dependence·DateJun 10, 2014

Mobile health apps lack behavior-change techniques

Researchers found that top-rated health and fitness apps typically use fewer than four behavior-change techniques, with most focusing on instruction, feedback, and goal-setting. The study highlights the need for developers to incorporate more effective techniques in their apps.

SourcePenn State·JournalAmerican Journal of Preventive Medicine·DateMay 6, 2014

Promoting love can punish sales

A new study found that reminders of relationships consumers don't have can lead to restrictions on indulgent spending, choosing lower-end brands and opting for healthier options. This effect is particularly pronounced during holidays and wedding season when relationship portrayals are prominent in advertisements.

SourceUSC Marshall School of Business·JournalJournal of Marketing Research·DateMar 11, 2014