Thinking through how “free” things fit into the equation is actually one of the things that cemented it for me. Your example about giving tech support is so familiar, and a great example of how people don’t value free things.
Well, you can’t divide by 0; so if cost is nothing, then there’s no value.
I’ve read the book Influence by Robert Cialdini a few times because it’s a fascinating take on what persuades people at a subconscious level. Your story about mice is spot on with some principles he shares.
I think the example in the book was about a person who sold jewelry at fairs. I’m going to make up details because I don’t remember them perfectly, but it’s close: Her $10 turquoise jewelry wasn’t selling, so she told one of her workers to reduce it by 20%. There was a miscommunication and instead the price was raised to $20, and she sold out that day.
People saw it as more valuable because of the higher cost.
Thinking through how “free” things fit into the equation is actually one of the things that cemented it for me. Your example about giving tech support is so familiar, and a great example of how people don’t value free things.
Well, you can’t divide by 0; so if cost is nothing, then there’s no value.
I’ve read the book Influence by Robert Cialdini a few times because it’s a fascinating take on what persuades people at a subconscious level. Your story about mice is spot on with some principles he shares.
I think the example in the book was about a person who sold jewelry at fairs. I’m going to make up details because I don’t remember them perfectly, but it’s close: Her $10 turquoise jewelry wasn’t selling, so she told one of her workers to reduce it by 20%. There was a miscommunication and instead the price was raised to $20, and she sold out that day.
People saw it as more valuable because of the higher cost.
Humans are unfortunately easy to manipulate.