Comparisons and Analogies
A comparison is a statement that points out and illustrates the similarities between two points. An analogy is a special and useful form of comparison that explains one thing in terms of another. Analogies are useful for explaining something complex by allowing the buyer to better visualize it in terms of something familiar that is easier to understand. Comparisons add interest and clarity while improving the retention of information. The substantiation of claims that is provided through comparisons and analogies is also effective in providing proof to the claims of benefit and value.
A salesperson wishing to add emphasis and meaning to his or her verbal description of the Honda S2000’s performance capabilities might use a direct comparison to the performance capabilities of a competitive model the prospective buyer might also be considering.
You have the performance specifications on both cars, and as you can see
… the 6 second 0 to 60 performance of the S2000 outperforms the Audi TT by a good 10 percent. Isn’t that the kind of performance you are looking for?
A salesperson for Newell-Rubbermaid might illustrate the benefits of setting up an end-of-aisle display of special occasion containers by using the following comparison to the store manager’s sales goals for the product category:
… sales data from stores similar to yours indicate that adding an end-of-aisle display for these seasonal containers will increase their sales by 35 to 40 percent during the fourth quarter holiday season. This would certainly help you achieve – and possibly exceed – the store’s goal of a 20 percent increase for this general product category.
A BMW salesperson presenting to an Air Force pilot the option of an in-car global positioning system map and tracking system might use the following analogy:
… having the onboard map and tracking system is like having a friendly flight controller with you on every trip. You will always know exactly where you are and what route you should travel to reach your destination. You will never get lost or be delayed because you took the wrong turn.