How 'Social Intelligence' Can Lead to a Better Marketing Strategy

What is social intelligence?

A significant part of effectively engaging and interacting is social intelligence, a term first used by Edward Thorndike in 1920. Improving your social intelligence is a useful way to develop a better marketing strategy.  


According to Thorndike, the definition of social intelligence is as follows: “a person’s ability to understand and manage other people, and to engage in adaptive social interactions.” In simpler terms, it’s being able to connect with others, build relationships and navigate through social interactions. 


Humans are naturally social creatures, and being able to master social intelligence is what allows us to easily interact, and build more meaningful relationships with one another. 


What kind of decisions can social intelligence influence?

What makes up social intelligence, key components like being able to understand and relate to others, also apply directly to marketing. 


Social intelligence gives you a better understanding of your customers. Find a way to get in touch with your customer base. You’ll be able to understand individual personalities and interests. It can also make you aware of any points that could disrupt the relationship between you and your customer. With this, you can adjust your branding, advertising and content to meet your customer’s needs. 


It can also play an important role in performing competitive analysis. When you understand the  behavior, decisions, logic and strategies of your competitors, it allows you to identify their strengths and weaknesses, better predict what they’ll do in the future and locate untapped market opportunities. 


This puts you in a position where you can develop a unique marketing strategy, and increase business growth. 

Final remarks

In marketing, being book smart is important. However, having street smarts can be even more critical. Social intelligence can be applied to many different facets of life, including marketing. 


Improving your social intelligence, and using relevant data solutions can clarify and improve your marketing strategy, and enhance customer service. 


At The Burnette Agency, it is our aim to tell your story through a variety of mediums, clarifying your voice and bringing overall brand awareness! Visit our website and fill out our contact form here or call us at 404.850.2081 for more information.