Creating shared experiences
Enhanced joy, learning, and retention
‘Are you experienced? Have you ever been experienced?’ Jimi Hendrix asks listeners this question in the chorus of the title track of The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s classic 1967 LP, Are You Experienced.
However, this same question is one that more marketers will soon want to start asking their customers. Why? The power of shared experiences.
What are shared experiences?
A shared experience is exactly what it sounds like: seeing, hearing, or doing the same thing as someone else. Although it’s a simple concept, shared experiences have a deep impact on human socialization because they enhance each person’s individual experience.
In a study by Yale University, it was observed that when two people ate a piece of chocolate, they each described it as more flavorful and enjoyable than either of them did when one person was eating the chocolate and the other person was doing something else. Whether it’s eating food, seeing a TV show, or rooting for a sports team, sharing an experience with others makes an experience more enjoyable for us humans.
Shared experiences aren’t new: people have been telling stories and communicating shared myths for thousands of years. As technology advanced, the medium changed: there was radio, movies, and television, but today we have the easiest platform for shared experiences that society has ever known: the Internet.
Put yourself in the customer’s shoes and think about what they would want. Virgin Atlantic is a relatively small airline when compared to titans like Delta and British Airways, yet Virgin is still the number two airline in the U.K. and one of the most memorable. How have they done it? A strong focus on customer experience, including in-flight bars, massages, or manicures, and a staff that has been trained to be casual and fun. Virgin figured out what people flying on commercial airlines wanted, and delivered it in spades.
Learning and retention
When we experience something together with others, it creates a deeper and more meaningful connection to the information being presented. Experiences can also help to build social connections, trust, and a sense of community, which can further enhance our learning and retention. Whether in a classroom, workplace, or personal setting, incorporating shared experiences are powerful to facilitate learning and create long-lasting memories.
Today’s Action: One small micro action that you can take to create a shared experience today is to invite a friend or colleague to go for a walk together during a break or lunchtime. This provides an opportunity to get some fresh air, exercise, and engage in conversation while enjoying each other's company.
What a great day it is, my friend! One big reason I write is to engage with you. Jot down a thought or perhaps a word or two on how this landed for you; I’d love to hear from you. -bryan
