Scarcity in sales copy is when you create a sense of urgency by implying a lack. The word scarcity means that there isn’t enough supply to meet demand – there are minimal resources available. When you create that limit, people feel more inspired to act now.
In the past, we have been taught to think about scarcity as something negative. But it doesn’t have to be like this. Scarcity can also be used for good. You can use scarcity to make your product stand out. The idea is that if you give people what they want, but only a limited amount of it, then they will be excited and motivated to buy. Here’s how it works.
What are the Three Types of Scarcity?
Scarcity marketing can be broken down into three different types.
1) Time-based scarcity – This type of scarcity is based on time, and it implies that you need to act fast because the opportunity will pass. Examples include “only three days left,” “limited time offer,” and “one day only.”
2) Quantity-based scarcity – This kind of scarcity is based on quantity, and it implies that there is not enough of an item to go around. Examples include “only five left,” “limited edition,” and “only one per customer.”
3) Value-based scarcity – This is the most common form of scarcity, and it implies that the value of the item is very high and that people should pay a premium price to get their hands on it. Examples include “exclusive offer,” “special offer,” and “limited edition.”
Why do people respond so strongly to scarcity?
People respond to scarcity because it makes them feel special. They don’t want to be left out, they feel like they’re getting something exclusive, or they’re getting a great deal. And when you make someone feel special, they tend to feel better about themselves. That’s why you see people spending money on things they don’t really need just because they know they’re going to get something great.
Why Do Marketers Love the Scarcity Principle to Boost Sales?
Marketers love using scarcity marketing because it helps to increase conversions. They can use scarcity to make people feel like they are missing out on something extraordinary, getting something rare, or that they’re saving money. That’s where all the power comes from.
How To Use Scarcity in Your Marketing
Scarcity is used in many different contexts. It’s often used in advertising, but it can also be used in other ways.
The main idea behind scarcity in sales copy is that people tend to sign up for or buy things that are scarce. This means that you should try to create situations where people feel like they might miss out on something.
You can use scarcity in two ways. First, you can use it to get people to buy from you. If you sell products online, you could say something like, “only ten left!” Or “only one per customer!”. Second, you can use scarcity to increase conversions. So instead of saying “buy now!” you might try something like “sign up now!”
How to Use Scarcity in Your Sales Copy
Here are some examples of scarcity:
1) Limited Edition – A lot of people love buying limited editions. They feel like they’ve got something unique and valuable, and they feel like they’re part of something bigger than themselves.
2) Exclusive Offer – People love being treated differently; they love feeling special. And exclusivity gives them that feeling. So if you’re selling something expensive, you can make it even more exclusive by offering it at a discounted rate.
3) One Day Only – If you’re selling something that has limited availability, such as tickets to a concert, you can use scarcity by making it seem like you won’t have any more seats after today.
4) Special Price – If you’re selling a product at a low cost, you can make it sound like it’s never been offered at that price before.
5) Limited Supply – If you’re selling a physical product, you can use scarcity when you’re trying to encourage customers to purchase right away. For instance, if you’re selling a book, you can say something like “while supplies last.”
6) Time-Based Scarcity – If you’re selling physical goods, you can use scarcity when you’re talking about delivery times. For example, “Order now and receive it within two days.” You could also run seasonal offers.
7) Value-Based Scarcity – Finally, you can use scarcity if you’re trying to convince people to spend more. For example, “Get your hands on our bestseller for $99.”
Tips for Using Scarcity in Sales Copy
1) Make sure you’re not overusing it. The key here is balance. Too much scarcity will turn off your audience. Don’t use it every time you send an email. Instead, use it strategically. For example, if you’re promoting a new product, use scarcity to make your offer stand out. Then, once your offer is done, stop using scarcity.
2) Keep it simple. Your goal isn’t to confuse your readers. Instead, you want to give them enough information and a call to action so that they know exactly what they need to do.
3) Be careful with discounts. Discounts are great. But if you discount too much, you’ll lose credibility. When you’re running a promotion, keep the discount small. Otherwise, you risk turning off your audience and devaluing your worth.
Include a Clear Call to Action
Whether you’re using scarcity marketing on your website, emails, products, or landing pages, you can’t forget a bold, clear, obvious call to action. Be direct in telling the reader what you want them to do next. Don’t leave it up to them to figure out. Make sure there’s an easy way for them to take action.
Conclusion
There are a plethora of ways you can use scarcity in sales copy if you don’t overdo the technique. Create a sense of urgency, but don’t saturate your marketing with it. Over-doing the scarcity principle could cause your product or service to lose value, or readers can learn not to trust your “always urgent” messages. So be strategic. Use scarcity wisely. And remember: the most important thing you can do is get your message across clearly.
