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Law of distraction

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The Law of Distraction is a cognitive bias that refers to our tendency to be easily swayed from one task or situation to another, especially when we are presented with new or novel stimuli. This bias can manifest in many ways, such as being easily distracted by notifications on our phones or becoming sidetracked by interesting content when browsing the internet. The Law of Distraction can have a significant impact on our decision-making abilities, as it can cause us to overlook important details or fail to follow through on our goals. By understanding this bias, we can learn to be more mindful of the distractions around us and take steps to minimize their impact on our productivity and decision-making.

Table of contents:
  1. What is the Law of Distraction?
  2. How to Use the Law of Distraction to Improve Conversion Rates
    1. 1. Create a Sense of Urgency
    2. 2. Use Visual Distractions
    3. 3. Use Personalization
    4. 4. Offer Incentives or Rewards
    5. 5. Use Social Proof
  3. Conclusion

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The Law of Distraction: How to Use Cognitive Biases to Improve Conversion Rates

Have you ever been persuaded to take an action while your attention was diverted? Or perhaps you have distracted someone in order to influence their decision? If so, then you've experienced the Law of Distraction.

In Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO), we use cognitive biases to influence user behavior and increase conversion rates. The Law of Distraction is one such bias that can be leveraged to great effect.

Here's how it works:

What is the Law of Distraction?

The Law of Distraction is a cognitive bias that describes how our attention can be diverted from one thing to another without us realizing it. Our brains have limited capacity for attention, and when that capacity is exceeded, we become more susceptible to distraction.

The Law of Distraction states that people are more likely to be influenced by persuasive messages when their attention is focused elsewhere. This makes sense when you consider that our brains have limited processing power. If we're already thinking about something else, it's harder for us to resist persuasive messaging.

How to Use the Law of Distraction to Improve Conversion Rates

Now that we understand what the Law of Distraction is, how can we use it to improve conversion rates? Here are some tips:

1. Create a Sense of Urgency

One effective way to distract users is to create a sense of urgency. If users feel like they need to take action quickly in order to avoid missing out on something, they're more likely to be distracted from their original task.

For example, you might create urgency by adding a countdown clock to a limited-time offer or highlighting the number of items left in stock. This can distract users from their current task, making them more susceptible to persuasion.

2. Use Visual Distractions

Visual distractions can also be effective at diverting user attention. Consider using eye-catching graphic design or animations to draw users' attention away from their current task.

For example, you might use a pop-up window with an attention-grabbing graphic to promote a new product or offer. This can distract users from their current task, making them more likely to engage with your messaging.

3. Use Personalization

Personalization is another way to distract users from their primary task. When users receive personalized messaging, they're more likely to pay attention and engage with your content.

For example, you might use personalized recommendations based on users' past behavior or location. This can distract users from their current task, making them more receptive to persuasion.

4. Offer Incentives or Rewards

Incentives and rewards can also be effective at distracting users. If users feel like they'll get something in return for taking action, they're more likely to be distracted from their original task.

For example, you might offer a discount or free gift for completing a survey or signing up for your newsletter. This can distract users from their current task, making them more likely to engage with your messaging.

5. Use Social Proof

Social proof is a powerful distraction tactic because it taps into our innate desire to conform to social norms. When we see others taking action, we're more likely to follow suit.

For example, you might use social proof by highlighting the number of people who have already purchased your product or the number of likes or shares your content has received. This can distract users from their current task, making them more likely to engage with your messaging.

Conclusion

The Law of Distraction is a powerful cognitive bias that can be leveraged to improve conversion rates. By diverting users' attention from their primary task, we can influence their decision-making process and increase the likelihood of conversion.

If you want to use the Law of Distraction in your CRO efforts, consider creating a sense of urgency, using visual distractions, offering incentives or rewards, personalizing your messaging, or using social proof. And remember, keep it simple and avoid using jargon or complicated language.

Now that you understand the Law of Distraction, go forth and start influencing user behavior like a pro!

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