I’M ALRIGHT

CONFIRMATION BIAS


Favoring information that confirms our beliefs while undervaluing (or ignoring) conflicting evidence.

This bias impacts how we gather, understand, and recall information; we naturally look for and remember ideas that reinforce our existing opinions rather than noticing and considering the contrary. We may even subconsciously interpret neutral or ambiguous evidence as supporting our preconceived ideas. 

Our brain uses this cognitive shortcut to cut down on draining decision making. It also boosts our self-esteem; we humans like to be right!

SO WHAT

Confirmation bias is a major factor in decision making; people believe what they want to believe, even if they're working with incorrect information. Thus, it’s much easier to roll with people’s preconceived ideas than try to change them.

NOW WHAT

  • Use stereotypes to your advantage: reiterate positive presumptions about your category (German cars are safe! Columbian coffee is the best!).

  • Marketers fall prey to their own confirmation bias; we aim to solve for what we believe to be barriers, but consumers may feel differently. 

MARKETING IMPLICATION

Is your comms plan backed by data? When did you last confirm your audience's needs and barriers to ensure your positioning and messaging are truly relevant and impactful?


The eye sees only what the mind is prepared to comprehend.

- French philosopher Henri Bergson


Sources & Additional Reading

https://www.simplypsychology.org/confirmation-bias.html

https://thedecisionlab.com/biases/confirmation-bias

https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-a-confirmation-bias-2795024

https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/confirmation-bias-how-it-affects-your-organization-and-how-to-overcome-it

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