Using Scarcity to Drive Sales

Chibuzor Anyameluhor
Nov 1 · 2 min read

A few days ago, I did a short post about the fear of missing out (FOMO). It was funny some people had never heard of the term before and found it strange. What was common, however, was the fact that the fear of missing out resonated with at least 90% of the people who saw that post. No one wants to miss out on anything they “feel” they may need.

It’s a psychological thing. Your brain says, “What if you don’t get that later?” and you really don’t want to have regrets of not getting it at that point.

This same psychology can be applied to business in a subtle way that your audience won’t notice what happened to them. It happened to me while at the market by a petty trader and I am supposed to be the knowledgeable one in these things! It is a healthy way to keep people purchasing from you.

When you market your goods as though they are so high in demand (as they should be) and run out fast, your customers will purchase with that same energy. Who wants to miss out on the good stuff?

Mix in testimonials from real clients who have purchased your goods/services and have positive remarks to share. Then add a healthy dash of urgency to your marketing/social media posts like:

“Hurry now to get yours! They won’t last long on the shelves.” or

“Limited time offer: buy 2 pieces of xyz and get a third one absolutely free (or half-price)!”

You get the gist. Appealing to your audience in a way that pleases the senses will spur them into action. Ensure you do not lie and don’t try to deceive your clients (and potential clients). Do not promise what you cannot deliver.

Hope this helps. Don’t forget to clap and share. Till next time, toodles!