Journal Article | Harvard Business Review | November 2010

Capitalizing on the Underdog Effect

by Anat Keinan, Jill Avery and Neeru Paharia

Abstract

This article presents the results of a study that investigated the use of the underdog effect in marketing. The idea of triumphing over disadvantages by impassioned determination is said to be a powerfully positive image, which can lead consumers to choose a brand over its larger rivals. The results of research on this effect are presented, and exceptions to the rule are noted.

Keywords: Brands and Branding; Competition;

Citation:

Keinan, Anat, Jill Avery, and Neeru Paharia. "Capitalizing on the Underdog Effect." Harvard Business Review 88, no. 11 (November 2010): 32.