The Marketing Rule You Might Be Ignoring

Did you know that people need to see your brand at least seven times before they even think about buying? It’s called the “Rule of 7,” and it explains a lot about how we make decisions.

7 sounds like a lot, right? But when we look at our own buying habits, it makes perfect sense.

Think about it—when was the last time you bought something on impulse without seeing it multiple times? Most of us need reminders, whether it’s seeing an ad, reading a recommendation, or spotting a social media post, before we’re fully convinced.

The “Rule of 7” isn’t a hard number but more of a guidepost. Our brains are naturally skeptical of anything new. Psychologists call it cognitive familiarity. Familiarity builds trust, and trust drives action.​
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When we see something repeatedly, it starts to feel safe, almost as if we know it personally. That’s why big brands invest so much in regular, consistent ads.
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This is where the marketing saying "Repetition builds Recognition" comes in.
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Here’s a quick fact: the average person is exposed to between 4,000–10,000 ads a day. Yes, a day.
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Our brains are pros at filtering out what doesn’t grab attention—meaning if someone saw your ad or post just once or twice, there’s a high chance they won’t even remember it.

How to Put the Rule of 7 to Work for You-

1. Stay Consistent Across Platforms: Align your message and visuals consistently across all platforms for a lasting impression.
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2. Leverage Multiple Touchpoints: Mix formats—Instagram posts, emails, videos, and blogs—to build familiarity.
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3. Don’t Be Afraid of Repetition: Repetition is key; if a post worked well, repurpose it or repost with a fresh twist.
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​An important fact: audiences rarely make decisions based on the best option. Instead, they often go with the most familiar one. We’re wired to trust what we’ve seen repeatedly because it feels safe and comfortable.
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So in your next marketing campaign, instead of chasing flashy, one-time viral moments, focus on consistent, frequent touchpoints. It’s this steady presence that makes your brand unforgettable.​
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Let me know if you’ve seen the Rule of 7 work in action, or if you’ve got any surprising tricks up your sleeve! Just hit reply—I’d love to hear your insights.
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Talk soon,
PrimePulse.
IG - @primepulse.inc