Drive donations by leveraging the peanuts effect
Overview
Business Outcome
Contributions to Sustainability Initiatives
Increase the amount donated to United's sustainability initiative.
Behavioral Outcome
Make the Donation Feel Pain Free
By framing the $3.50 contribution as a small amount in comparison to the overall ticket price, customers are more likely to perceive it as an insignificant expense and be more willing to make the donation. This leverages the peanuts effect to encourage more customers to contribute to the sustainable flight account.
The Behavioral Science
Peanuts Effect
The peanuts effect is a cognitive bias that occurs when a small expense or cost seems insignificant when compared to a larger expense or purchase. In this context, the relatively small $3.50 contribution to the sustainable flight account may be perceived as trivial by customers who are already spending hundreds of dollars on a plane ticket. This perception can make them more likely to agree to the additional donation without much consideration.
How It Works
United presents the option to contribute $3.50 to their sustainability initiatives during the checkout process. The slider ranging from $1.00 to $7.00 anchors the customer's perception of an appropriate contribution amount.
The relatively small contribution, when compared to the total cost of the plane ticket ($525.60), feels insignificant and less painful for the customer to add to their purchase. Furthermore, the act of supporting a good cause can provide a positive emotional boost, reducing the pain of paying even further.
How It Might Backfire
Perceived Pressure or Guilt
Some customers may feel pressured or guilted into making a contribution, especially if the option is presented prominently or repeatedly during the checkout process. This could lead to negative feelings towards the brand and potentially impact future purchasing decisions.
How To Test
A/B Test
Run an A/B test with two groups of customers: one group sees the contribution option during checkout, while the other group does not. Compare the conversion rates, average order values, and total contributions generated between the two groups to determine the impact of presenting the sustainability contribution option.
Surveys & Feedback
Consider surveying customers post-purchase to gather feedback on their perception of the contribution request and its impact on their overall experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Offer dollar value credits to increase trials
Anthropic's offer of "Claim Free Credits" with a $5 value effectively leverages two behavioral science principles: the scarcity effect and the psychological appeal of free offers. By presenting the credits as a limited-time opportunity and emphasizing the zero-cost nature of the offer, Anthropic aims to influence user behavior and drive increased engagement with their platform.
Reduce subscription churn through coupon offer
Puls offers a $100 coupon for all their services to customers who continue their subscription, leveraging loss aversion to reduce churn.