The Psychology of Black Friday: how not to fall into the marketing trap

Black Friday is not just a day with big discounts, but a real marketing phenomenon that forces customers to act quickly and without hesitation. However, attractive offers hide clever psychological techniques that can lead to impulsive purchases and budget overruns. For more information, see the Izvestia article.

How marketing influences our choices

When product prices go down, customers feel like they're making a great deal. However, discounts are often just part of the strategy. In some cases, product prices may be inflated even before the discount is announced, and the actual discounts are not so significant.

Many promotions are announced marked "Limited!" or "Only today!". In reality, these offers may not be as unique as they seem, and you can often find similar products with similar discounts later.

Another popular trick is packages of goods that are sold at a "bargain" price. They often include items that you don't need, or products that could be purchased at a lower price separately.

Marketers actively use bright banners, discounts in large numbers and enticing inscriptions. Often, these visual elements create a feeling in the buyer that he must act quickly and buy right now.

How to avoid the pitfalls of marketing

Before you go on Black Friday, ask yourself the question: what exactly do you need? Make a list of the items you need and stick to it.

Don't take the advertising promises of lower prices at their word. Use the tools to check what the price of the product was before Black Friday. Many websites and browser extensions show how the price of the product has changed and help you understand if the discount is real.

Make it a rule not to make purchases right away. Take a break to think. If the discount is really good, the product will be available in a few hours, and maybe even later. In Russia in 2025, sales began at the end of October and will continue until the second half of November.

What to buy on Black Friday

One of the most profitable items to buy on Black Friday is electronics, especially large household appliances, as well as televisions, smartphones, laptops, and kitchen gadgets.

Many brands and stores sell clothes and shoes on Black Friday. If you need to update your wardrobe, this is a great opportunity to find quality items at lower prices.

What exactly is not worth buying on Black Friday

Discounts on seasonal items such as summer clothing or cottage equipment may be attractive, but if you don't plan to use them anytime soon, they may not be the best buy.

Products with obvious damage or those that are sold as "last year's models" are often not worth buying. If the product has been used or has defects, the discount may not compensate for repair costs or dissatisfaction with quality.

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