8 Types of Consumer Behaviour Explained with Examples

We covered the meaning and importance of gathering consumer behaviour in a recent blog. Today, we are uncovering the major types of consumer behaviours that can shape marketing strategies and boost sales. 

 

Get ready for another informative blog that aims to help you to understand the terminology of consumer insights. Let’s go: 

 

1. Complex Buying Behavior

You know when you spend a lot of time researching before buying something big, like a car or a house? That's complex buying behaviour. You want to make sure you're getting the best deal and making the right choice.

Complex buying behaviour occurs when consumers are highly involved in a purchase and perceive significant differences among brands. They conduct extensive research, weigh options, and carefully consider the decision. Examples include buying a car, a house, or choosing a college.

 

2. Dissonance-Reducing Buying Behavior

Imagine you just bought an expensive gadget, like a new smartphone. You might feel a bit unsure afterwards, wondering if you made the right decision. So, you might look up reviews or ask friends for reassurance. That's dissonance-reducing behavior.

Dissonance-reducing buying behaviour happens when consumers are highly involved in a purchase but perceive little difference among brands. They may experience post-purchase dissonance or doubt, so they seek reassurance after the purchase. For instance, buying a high-priced gadget like a smartphone or a luxury handbag.

Also Read: Impact of Consumer Preferences on the Global Automobile Industry

 

3. Habitual Buying Behavior

Think about the stuff you buy without really thinking about it, like your usual groceries or your favourite shampoo. You just grab them without considering other options. That's habitual buying behaviour.

Habitual buying behaviour involves low consumer involvement and little significant brand difference. Consumers engage in routine purchases without much thought or comparison. Examples include buying daily groceries, toiletries, or household cleaning products.

 

4. Variety-Seeking Behavior

Have you ever bought different flavours of snacks just to try something new? Or maybe you like to switch up your shampoo brand now and then? That's variety-seeking behavior. You're not super invested in the decision, but you like to mix things up.

Variety-seeking behaviour occurs when consumers have low involvement but perceive significant differences among brands. They often switch between brands to add variety to their lives or try new experiences. Examples include trying different flavours of snacks, switching between shampoo brands, or exploring new restaurants.

Also Read: The Future of Market Research: AI & Advanced Analytics

 

5. Impulse Buying

This occurs when a consumer makes a sudden, unplanned purchase. For example, buying candy at the checkout counter of a grocery store simply because it looks appealing.

Imagine you're at the mall with friends, and you see a cool pair of sneakers on sale. Even though you didn't plan on buying anything, the shoes look so awesome that you just have to have them, so you make a spontaneous purchase.

 

6. Brand Loyalty

Some consumers consistently purchase products from a specific brand due to trust, familiarity, or emotional attachment. For instance, a person who always buys Nike shoes because they've had positive experiences with the brand in the past.

Think about your favourite clothing brand that you always buy from because you love their style and quality. Even when other brands have similar products, you stick with your favourite because you trust it and feel good wearing it.

 

7. Price Sensitivity

Picture yourself grocery shopping on a tight budget. You might opt for the store-brand cereal instead of the name-brand because it's cheaper and still tastes pretty much the same.

Highly price-sensitive consumers are likely to switch brands or products based on price alone. An example is someone who chooses to buy generic brand groceries instead of name brands to save money.

 

8. Product Research

Let's say you're in the market for a new phone. You spend hours watching review videos on YouTube, comparing specs on different models, and reading customer reviews to make sure you're getting the best one for your money.

Many consumers conduct thorough research before making a purchase, comparing features, prices, and reviews. For example, someone looking for a new smartphone might read multiple reviews, compare specifications, and visit stores to test different models.

 

Final Word

We aim to make market research easy and simple to understand. Our team creates blogs on consumer insights, market research and how to analyze that data. We value your feedback. Do not forget to drop your thoughts in the comments and be a part of the Humann family! 

Also Read: What are Consumer Insights: Meaning, Examples and Scope