What should you show in product ads?

Ready to turbocharge your ads with a simple trick that can make a big difference? Let’s dive right in and unlock another layer of ad magic.

👉 But before we dig in, here's a 60-second example 📺 of a food quiz (try the quiz here) for immi Ramen made with our POPSMASH Shopify quiz app for inspiration. Ok, onto this week's insight! 👇

Imagine you’re seeing an ad. One shows a delicious burger just sitting there on a plate, while another captures someone mid-bite, eyes closed, savoring the flavor 🍔 Which scene makes you hungry? If you're leaning towards the second, you're about to find out why it's not just you!

TL;DR 🎯

Here’s a quick takeaway: Show your product in action to spike up those purchase intentions. This could mean a photo of someone about to enjoy your product or even better, a video showing the product being used. Movement draws people in and makes them want to join the fun.

Why does this matter? Because when people can see your product being enjoyed, they can easily imagine themselves doing the same. That’s half the battle in convincing someone to buy!

Wait...but why? 🤔

The secret sauce here is all about mental engagement. When we see someone enjoying a product, our brain fires up those mirror neurons, mimicking their enjoyment. It's like a little mental taste test, and guess what? Our brain often wants the full experience!

What to watch out for ⚠️

Before you rush to change all your ads, keep this in mind: this technique lights up the purchase button especially in those who aren't already familiar with your product. Your loyal customers? They already know how great your product is, so this approach doesn’t make as much of a difference to them. However, it doesn't hurt either, so feel free to use it across the board or get creative with targeted ads.

How to do it ✅

Ready to get your customers mentally munching, sipping, or using your product before they even realize it? Here’s how you can apply this insight:

1. Capture the action: Use images and videos that show your product mid-use. Think a spoon diving into a creamy dessert or hands applying a luxurious cream.
2. Enhance with video: Where possible, opt for video ads. Movement grabs attention more effectively than static images. It’s like catching someone’s eye across a crowded room—it makes them want to come over!
3. Test different scenarios: Experiment with various stages of product enjoyment. Is it the anticipation of the first sip of coffee or the satisfaction of the last gulp?
4. Tailor by audience: For newbies, emphasize the experience. For veterans, mix it up with other appealing elements like benefits or new features.

By showing your product in glorious, dynamic action, you're not just selling an item—you're inviting your audience into a moment of pleasure. And who can resist that? 😇

Until next time, keep those ads lively and watch your audience’s imagination (and purchase intent) soar!

Want to learn more? 🤓

If you want to learn more about this topic, you can dig into the nerdy details in the original marketing study.

Quote of the week 💬

"Show, don't tell. Let your product speak for itself in action!"