Mnemonic devices, not to be confused with pneumonic devices, are effective tools for remembering important information, such as client names or faces. Some common forms include:
- Acronyms — Creating a word out of the first letter of each point of information, i.e. T.E.A.M. – (Together Everyone Achieves More)
- Association (Bill Evans has bushy eyebrows)
- The Method of Loci – Connecting a piece of information with a location in a well known place. (i.e. remembering the first 9 Presidents by placing each in a position on a baseball field, George Washington at First Base, John Adams at Second Base, etc.)
- Grouping — Reducing a lot of information into more easily usable pieces (ROY G BIV) for remembering the correct order of colors in the rainbow & it’s also an excellent example of an acronym.
- Repetition – Providing the same information in varied ways helps cement in the desired message when you are trying to make a point. Effective speech writers know that you begin with an outline of what you are going to discuss, then you discuss it, then you summarize it. For you real estate professionals: Location! Location! Location!
- Alliteration – Using the same sound at the beginning of several words: Big Bonus Buys at Billy’s Broomshop!
When it comes to creating an effective ad, you can greatly help your cause by implementing some commonly used mnemonic devices. Even if the consumer doesn’t intellectually recognize them as such, it can only help your message achieve a greater recall factor. Why do you think companies spend additional money to obtain telephone numbers that spell out something relevant? (1-800-BUY-MORE)
From my research it seems the consensus opinion is that most people can easily remember 5-7 items of info at one time. In your advertising, try to keep it under 5 points. Yes, you want to tell the consumer all about your wonderful product/service features & benefits, but don’t overwhelm them. Sometimes less is more. If you’d like some help with creating a mnemonic device for your advertising, give me a call. Get in the Know with CoMo Joe! (Hey, there’s another one – Rhyming!)
Tags: advertising, mnemonic devicesCategories: Advertising, Business Development.
