Contagious Book Summary

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."

ContagiousBook binding

Start Listening to Book Summary

0:000:00

Book Review of Contagious

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.

Book Overview of Contagious

About the Book Author

J

Jonah Berger

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.

Book Details

Key information about the book.

Authors
Jonah Berger
Published
March 2013
Publisher
Simon and Schuster
ISBN
1471111717
Language
English
Pages
256
Genres
Content MarketingMarketing and SalesAdvertising StrategiesSocial Media Marketing

Purchase Options

Amazon logoBuy on Amazon
BookShop logoBuy via BookShop

Support local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!

Similar books you might like →

Jab, Jab, Jab, Right HookBook binding

Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook Book Summary

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?

Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook
Gary Vaynerchuk
The Thank You EconomyBook binding

The Thank You Economy Book Summary

In "The Thank You Economy," Gary Vaynerchuk explores the transformative power of gratitude in the age of social media. He argues that businesses thriving today are those that prioritize genuine connections and heartfelt appreciation for their customers. Through vivid anecdotes and real-world examples, Vaynerchuk stresses the importance of listening and engaging authentically with consumers. As technology reshapes customer expectations, the book reveals how a culture of gratitude can drive loyalty and success. Dive in to discover how to harness the power of thankfulness to elevate your brand in an increasingly connected world!

The Thank You Economy
Gary Vaynerchuk
Purple CowBook binding

Purple Cow Book Summary

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?

Purple Cow
Seth Godin
This Is MarketingBook binding

This Is Marketing Book Summary

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.

This Is Marketing
Seth Godin
Positioning: The Battle for Your MindBook binding

Positioning: The Battle for Your Mind Book Summary

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?

Positioning: The Battle for Your Mind
Al Ries, Jack Trout
Long Tail, The, Revised and Updated EditionBook binding

Long Tail, The, Revised and Updated Edition Book Summary

In 'The Long Tail,' Chris Anderson reveals how the internet has transformed our economy by shifting the focus from mainstream hits to niche markets. He explores how consumers are increasingly drawn to diverse, long-tail products rather than just a few bestsellers. This comprehensive guide illustrates how businesses can thrive by catering to specialized interests and expanding their offerings beyond the mainstream. Anderson's insights challenge traditional marketing strategies, sparking intrigue about the future of commerce. Will you reconsider the way you approach your own market?

Long Tail, The, Revised and Updated Edition
Chris Anderson
Viral LoopBook binding

Viral Loop Book Summary

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!

Viral Loop
Adam L. Penenberg
Guerrilla MarketingBook binding

Guerrilla Marketing Book Summary

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!

Guerrilla Marketing
Jay Conrad Levinson, Jeannie Levinson, Amy Levinson

Showing 8 of 30 similar books

Take your reading experience to the next level

Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.

Download on the App Store

Similar Book Recommendations →

Drew Houston's Book Recommendations

Drew Houston's Book Recommendations

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.

Business and LeadershipTechnology and FutureSuccess Stories and Life Lessons
Ann Handley's Book Recommendations

Ann Handley's Book Recommendations

Ann Handley is a renowned digital marketing pioneer and a Wall Street Journal bestselling author. She is the author of "Everybody Writes," a seminal guide on creating compelling content, and co-author of "Content Rules," which outlines effective content marketing strategies. As the Chief Content Officer at MarketingProfs, she has significantly influenced modern marketing practices. Handley is also a highly sought-after keynote speaker, known for her insights on digital content and marketing trends. Her work has empowered countless marketers to elevate their content creation and strategy efforts.

Business and LeadershipInspiring ReadsProductivity
Andrew Chen's Book Recommendations

Andrew Chen's Book Recommendations

Andrew Chen is a venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and thought leader in growth marketing, currently serving as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz. Chen is known for his expertise in network effects, viral growth strategies, and marketplace dynamics, making him a sought-after advisor for startups looking to scale. Prior to joining Andreessen Horowitz, he worked in leadership roles at Uber, helping to grow the ride-sharing platform’s user base and develop key growth strategies. Chen is also a prolific writer, sharing his insights on growth, technology, and startups through his popular blog and newsletter, which has attracted a loyal following in the tech community. His work has helped shape how many startups approach user acquisition, retention, and product-market fit. As a venture capitalist, Chen focuses on early-stage companies in the consumer internet, SaaS, and marketplace sectors, and he has been involved in funding and advising several successful startups. His insights on technology and growth continue to influence both founders and investors alike.

Business and LeadershipTechnology and FutureFounders Playbook
Changpeng Zhao's Book Recommendations

Changpeng Zhao's Book Recommendations

Changpeng Zhao, commonly known as "CZ," is a prominent figure in the cryptocurrency world and the founder and CEO of Binance, the world's largest cryptocurrency exchange by trading volume. Although not a traditional literary figure, Zhao has significantly contributed to the understanding and proliferation of blockchain technology through numerous articles, interviews, and public speaking engagements. His insights and leadership have been instrumental in shaping modern digital finance. Zhao's journey from coding at Bloomberg to creating Binance has been documented in various publications, shedding light on the transformative potential of cryptocurrencies. Through his work, CZ continues to influence both the financial and technological landscapes globally.

Technology and FutureBusiness and LeadershipMoney Matters
Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations

Alfred Lin's Book Recommendations

Alfred Lin is a venture capitalist and partner at Sequoia Capital, where he focuses on investments in consumer internet, enterprise, and mobile companies. Lin is known for his early investments in companies like Airbnb and DoorDash, helping them grow into major global brands. Before joining Sequoia, Lin was an executive at Zappos, where he worked closely with CEO Tony Hsieh to develop the company’s innovative culture and customer service model. Lin’s expertise in scaling businesses and his strategic vision have made him one of the most respected venture capitalists in Silicon Valley.

Business and LeadershipInspiring ReadsSuccess Stories and Life Lessons
David Kadavy's Book Recommendations

David Kadavy's Book Recommendations

David Kadavy is an author, podcast host, and creativity expert, best known for his books The Heart to Start and Design for Hackers, where he explores the intersection of creativity, productivity, and design. Kadavy's work focuses on helping creators overcome procrastination, build meaningful habits, and find motivation to pursue their creative projects. He is also the host of the Love Your Work podcast, where he interviews high-performing individuals across various fields about their creative processes and productivity techniques. Kadavy’s insights stem from his own experiences as a designer and entrepreneur, offering practical advice on how to break through mental blocks and create with intention. His work emphasizes the importance of self-discipline, creativity, and a minimalist approach to both design and life. Kadavy’s books and podcast have garnered a global audience, positioning him as a thought leader in the realms of personal development and creative success.

Creativity and InnovationProductivitySuccess Stories and Life LessonsSelf-Improvement
Ev Williams's Book Recommendations

Ev Williams's Book Recommendations

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.

Business and LeadershipTechnology and FutureInspiring Reads
Hugh Jackman's Book Recommendations

Hugh Jackman's Book Recommendations

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.

Memoirs and BiographiesInspiring ReadsEducation

Showing 8 of 13 related collections

People don’t just share information; they share emotions.

Contagious

By Jonah Berger

Frequently Asked Questions