It's interesting. I sometimes sigh when I see a discount box because I know I'm going to spend the next 10 minutes searching for a code.
For me, not having the box would have meant I "knew" I was getting the best deal. Having the box and failing to find a code means I "failed" at getting the best deal, even if there wasn't a better deal to be had.
Finding a code sometimes makes me think, "am I allowed to use it?" but of course, I'd try anyway and yes, can be pleased if I get the magical 10-15% off.
I wonder if your response would be different if the language around the coupon code was different. Instead of just a "Coupon code:" label, something that deterred you from entering one.
That's got me thinking. I suspect it might. The psychology behind it form me is not to be getting a worse deal than everyone else. If everyone else can enter a discount code, then I should be able to as well.
But if the code is targeted at a specific set of customers that I know I don't fall into, then I would probably overlook.
Things like:
- Student discount
- Over 60s discount
- Job seekers discount
But finding the right label that doesn't offend, and right way to validate the authenticity of the customer's eligibility, is no trivial task.
For me, not having the box would have meant I "knew" I was getting the best deal. Having the box and failing to find a code means I "failed" at getting the best deal, even if there wasn't a better deal to be had.
Finding a code sometimes makes me think, "am I allowed to use it?" but of course, I'd try anyway and yes, can be pleased if I get the magical 10-15% off.