In "Contagious: How to Build Word of Mouth," Jonah Berger unravels the secrets behind why certain ideas and products go viral. He reveals six key principles that drive people to share, from social currency to emotional triggers, demonstrating how these concepts can transform ordinary offerings into cultural phenomena. Through captivating anecdotes and cutting-edge research, Berger illustrates how harnessing the power of word of mouth can shape markets and influence behavior. Could your next big idea become an unstoppable trend? Dive in and discover how to make your message contagious!
By Jonah Berger
Published: 2013
"People don’t just share information; they share emotions."
Why are some products and ideas talked about more than others? Why do some articles make the most emailed list? Why do some YouTube videos go viral? Word-of-mouth. Whether through face-to-face conversations, emails from friends, or online product reviews, the information and opinions we get from others have a strong impact on our own behaviour. Indeed, word-of-mouth generates more than two times the sales of paid advertising and is the primary factor behind 20-50% of all purchasing decisions.It is between 8.5 and 30 times more effective than traditional media.But want to know the best thing about word-of-mouth? It's available to everyone.Whether you're a Fortune 500 company trying to increase sales, a corner restaurant trying to raise awareness, a non-profit trying to fight obesity, or a newbie politician running for city council, word-of-mouth can help you succeed. And you don't have to have millions of dollars to spend on an advertising budget. You just have to get people to talk.The challenge, though, is how to do that. This book will show you how.
Showing 8 of 30 similar books
Ev Williams is an American entrepreneur, best known as the co-founder of Twitter and Medium. Williams has a long history in the tech industry, having co-founded Blogger, one of the first blogging platforms, which was later acquired by Google. His work has significantly shaped online communication, giving people platforms to share their thoughts and ideas globally. Williams’ focus on simplicity and user experience has been a hallmark of his career. He continues to lead Medium, a platform that champions quality content and thoughtful discourse.
Drew Houston is an accomplished American entrepreneur best known for co-founding Dropbox, a widely-used cloud storage service, in 2007. As the CEO, he has led the company to serve millions of users worldwide and become a key player in the tech industry. Although not primarily known for literature, Houston has shared his entrepreneurial insights and experiences through various interviews and public speaking engagements, offering valuable lessons to aspiring business leaders. His work has significantly influenced the way people and organizations manage and share digital content. Houston's innovative vision continues to shape the future of cloud computing and digital collaboration.
Hugh Jackman, better known for his illustrious acting career, has made significant contributions to literature through his co-authorship of the popular children's book series, "The School of Life." Born in Sydney, Australia, Jackman has seamlessly transitioned from stage and screen to the literary world, captivating young readers with his imaginative storytelling. His work in literature reflects his versatility and dedication to inspiring and educating children. Alongside his wife, Deborra-Lee Furness, Jackman has also been involved in various philanthropic efforts, promoting literacy and education globally. Despite his Hollywood fame, Jackman's contributions to literature highlight his commitment to nurturing young minds.
Tony Hsieh was an innovative entrepreneur best known for his role as the CEO of Zappos, where he revolutionized online retail through a strong emphasis on company culture and customer service. Born on December 12, 1973, in Illinois, Hsieh graduated from Harvard University with a degree in computer science. He co-founded LinkExchange, which he sold to Microsoft for $265 million, before joining Zappos. Hsieh authored the best-selling book "Delivering Happiness" in 2010, outlining his business philosophy and insights into creating a positive workplace culture. His work has left a lasting impact on both the business world and the literature on corporate management and entrepreneurship.
Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and productivity. She is a bestselling author and prominent speaker on the importance of sleep and managing stress. Arianna’s work emphasizes the importance of balance between professional success and personal well-being. Her book The Sleep Revolution has inspired a global movement to prioritize rest. She is considered one of the most influential women in media and business.
Keith Rabois is a prominent American entrepreneur, investor, and author known for his significant contributions to the tech industry and startup ecosystem. He played crucial roles in the early success of companies like PayPal, LinkedIn, Square, and Yelp, earning a reputation as a skilled operator and strategic thinker. As a partner at Founders Fund and later at Khosla Ventures, Rabois has invested in and advised numerous successful startups. In addition to his business ventures, he has written insightful articles and essays on technology, entrepreneurship, and innovation, contributing to the broader discourse on these subjects. Rabois continues to influence the tech world with his strategic insights and thought leadership.
Ryan Hoover is the founder of Product Hunt, a popular platform where users discover and share new tech products, apps, and tools. Hoover started Product Hunt as a side project, which quickly grew into a thriving community for tech enthusiasts and entrepreneurs. The platform has helped launch countless startups and has become an essential resource for finding innovative products. In addition to Product Hunt, Hoover is an investor and writer, often sharing insights on startup culture and product development. His work has made him a key figure in the tech and startup ecosystems.
Joe Gebbia is an American designer and entrepreneur best known as the co-founder of Airbnb, a pioneering platform in the sharing economy. Although he is not primarily recognized for his literary contributions, Gebbia has significantly influenced design thinking and innovation, which he has articulated through various talks and articles. His insights on creativity and entrepreneurship have been featured in prominent publications and at leading conferences, inspiring a new generation of business leaders. Gebbia's work emphasizes the intersection of design, technology, and community, making him a thought leader in modern business practices. His contributions extend beyond Airbnb, as he continues to explore and advocate for innovative solutions to global challenges.
Showing 8 of 17 related collections
“People don’t just share information; they share emotions.”
Contagious
By Jonah Berger
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Jonah Berger is a renowned author and marketing professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. He specializes in the study of social influence, word-of-mouth marketing, and the factors that drive products and ideas to become popular. Berger is best known for his bestselling books, including "Contagious: How to Build Word of Mouth in the Digital Age" and "Invisible Influence: The Hidden Forces that Shape Behavior." Through his research and engaging writing, he explores the dynamics of how and why things catch on, offering valuable insights for marketers and entrepreneurs alike. In addition to his academic work, Berger is a sought-after speaker and consultant, sharing his expertise with organizations around the world.
Key information about the book.
Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In "Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook," social media guru Gary Vaynerchuk reveals the art of crafting compelling content that resonates with audiences. He emphasizes the importance of delivering value through "jabs"—small doses of engagement—before landing the "right hook" that drives home your sales message. Through captivating examples and real-world case studies, Vaynerchuk illustrates how understanding the nuances of each social platform can amplify your reach. The book challenges traditional marketing tactics, urging businesses to prioritize authenticity and connection. Are you ready to learn the knockout strategies that can transform your social media presence?
In "Purple Cow," Seth Godin challenges the conventional marketing wisdom of blending in. He posits that the key to success in a crowded marketplace is to be remarkable—like a purple cow in a field of monochrome livestock. Through engaging anecdotes and sharp insights, Godin illustrates how businesses can stand out by embracing uniqueness and innovation. This book isn't just about marketing; it's a call to action for anyone who wants to break the mold and create something extraordinary. Are you ready to uncover the secrets of becoming a standout in your industry?
In 'This Is Marketing', Seth Godin revolutionizes traditional marketing concepts, urging readers to focus on creating meaningful connections rather than simply selling products. He emphasizes the power of storytelling and understanding niche audiences to foster loyalty and engagement. Godin challenges marketers to shift from transactional thinking to transformative experiences that resonate on a personal level. Through impactful insights and practical strategies, he encourages a mindset of empathy and purpose in every marketing endeavor. This thought-provoking guide unlocks the secret to standing out in a saturated marketplace, inviting you to rethink your approach to reaching customers.
In "Positioning: The Battle for Your Mind," Al Ries and Jack Trout delve into the art of carving out a unique space in the crowded marketplace of ideas. They argue that the true battlefield is not in products, but in the perceptions of consumers' minds. Through gripping examples and strategic insights, the authors reveal how effective positioning can lead to lasting brand loyalty. Discover why it's not enough to simply stand out; you must also resonate with your audience in a memorable way. Are you ready to transform how you think about marketing and break through the noise?
In 'Branding,' Michael Johnson delves into the intricate world of brand identity and its profound impact on consumer perception. He uncovers the psychological underpinnings that influence how we connect with brands, making it an essential read for marketers and creatives alike. Through vivid examples and insightful analyses, Johnson illustrates the transformative power of effective branding in today’s competitive landscape. This book is not just a guide; it’s a journey into understanding the art and science behind memorable brands. Are you ready to unlock the secrets of successful branding?
In 'Viral Loop', Adam L. Penenberg unveils the mechanics of how ideas and products can spread like wildfire in the digital age. He explores the evolution of internet phenomena, revealing the secrets behind viral success. Through compelling case studies, Penenberg illustrates how companies can harness the power of social networks to fuel exponential growth. A fascinating blend of storytelling and analysis, this book challenges readers to rethink their approach to marketing and innovation. Prepare to be captivated by the unseen forces driving the viral effect!
In 'Crossing the Chasm', Geoffrey A. Moore presents a groundbreaking approach to marketing technology products. He explores the chasm between early adopters and the mainstream market, revealing why many innovations fail to gain traction. The book outlines strategies to bridge this divide, emphasizing the importance of targeting a specific niche first. Moore's insights are backed by real-world examples, making his concepts both practical and relatable. This must-read guide challenges entrepreneurs to rethink their marketing tactics and accelerate their product’s journey to success.
In 'Guerrilla Marketing', Jay Conrad Levinson and co-authors unveil unconventional strategies that defy traditional marketing norms. Discover how small businesses can leverage creativity and resourcefulness to achieve extraordinary results without a hefty budget. This book is packed with actionable insights and innovative tactics that empower marketers to make a lasting impact in their communities. Dive into real-world examples that illustrate the power of unconventional thinking in driving customer engagement. Unlock the secrets to standing out in a crowded market and watch your business flourish!