Yes, I see your point and agree that open encouragement is not as obvious as it used to be.
Most of my experience in marketing lies in the digital/SAAS space - network effects are highly saught after and community angles are widely used.
So it very much depends on the type of product being sold. But I agree with you that when it comes to purchases that play on people's need for status, uniqueness and a perceived sense of exclusivity are the primary selling message.
Yes, I see your point and agree that open encouragement is not as obvious as it used to be.
Most of my experience in marketing lies in the digital/SAAS space - network effects are highly saught after and community angles are widely used.
So it very much depends on the type of product being sold. But I agree with you that when it comes to purchases that play on people's need for status, uniqueness and a perceived sense of exclusivity are the primary selling message.