Viral Marketing Instruments and Consumer Attitudes Towards Brand

Abstract

Viral marketing influences the perception of a brand as well as the strengthening of its position. It is also a useful tool in evoking particular emotions towards a product before launching a promotional campaign. The aim of our research was to analyse and assess the influence of viral marketing on consumer attitudes towards Pepsi and Coca-Cola brands. Data was collected with the use of the interview method based on a questionnaire. Respondents answered questions about their attitudes to using social networking services as a medium of communication and a tool that forms market behaviours. The questionnaire was distributed either as an attachment to private email messages or a post on Facebook, Twitter and Goldenline and it included a link to Pepsi and Coca-Cola commercials. The respondents were asked to name the emotions evoked by these commer-cials and decide, if they would share these commercials with their friends. Information and com-mercials posted on social networking portals may shape the perception of a brand or company. The reception and influence of the viral marketing depends on the attitudes of consumers and their experiences with the product. Users and loyal buyers of the product are a much more sensitive group and participate in spreading viruses. The willingness to share the post is higher if the com-mercials convey positive emotions. Social networking services help brands build relations with their customers, they are a source of information about sales or the brand itself. Viral marketing is mostly used for promoting products and services and because of that it can influence the way a company is perceived by consumers. Interesting and entertaining content becomes popular and well-known via the system of sharing posts with friends.