With Super Bowl Sunday approaching, many of us are making last-minute runs to the grocery store for a little more salsa, or are shoring up our plans to hit the local bar, all under the guise of seeing who proves victorious: Eli or Tom.
The real reason we plan parties and clear our schedules on this particular Sunday each year? Many will agree that the commercials are just as big of a draw, if not bigger than the NFC/AFC showdown.
Companies from all walks – sodas to cars to websites to pharmaceuticals – pay out of the nose (often upwards of $100,000 per second) to have their commercial shown during the Super Bowl. And for good reason as the Super Bowl is one of the most watched television events of the year.
Who wouldn’t want to see Matthew Broderick reprise his role as Ferris Bueller, or see a 4 year old Darth Vader turn a car on using the “force?” The advertisements shown during the Super Bowl are arguably the best and most entertaining of the year, but should we have our guard up as consumers when we watch them?
Your BBB says yes! Super Bowl commercials are akin to watching mini-movies. They are dynamic and original, but unlike movies, have one distinct objective: to persuade you to buy a product. Here are some tips that shouldn’t squelch your enthusiasm, but help you get through Super Bowl Sunday without buying a new Lexus or a lifetime supply of Pepsi.
Remember You’re A Target. The commercials are funny and entertaining, yes, but remember that it was designed to make you feel a part of the group. Don’t get bowled over by a relatable advertisement.
Don’t Buy Into The Buy-In. Enjoy it, but always question the commercial. A good ad can make a consumer feel lesser for not owning a product, but asking yourself important questions before you feel that way can save you time and money. Ask, “Does the music or sound in the commercial make it more appealing?” and “Is this something that will really make me happier?”
Disregard Shiny Objects. Celebrity endorsements can make a product seem special or better than other like-products. When you feel attracted to a particular product for no particular reason, ask yourself the above questions!
Enjoy But Do Your Research. If you saw an amazing commercial and now feel like you cannot live without a product, that’s understandable. Make sure you do your research though. Always check out the business or service on BBB.org first. We can help you make smart purchasing decisions.
Most of all, enjoy a day of football, food and very funny commercials. Everyone at the BBB will be doing the same!
