“Hook, Story, Offer” is a marketing method that works like this: First, you grab people’s attention (Hook), then tell them an exciting story (Story), and finally, you convince them to do something, like buy a product (Offer).
It’s a smart strategy to mix storytelling with clear prompts to get people to act, helping turn interested folks into buyers.1
Visual Representation:
Purpose
The primary purpose of the “Hook, Story, Offer” framework is to turn viewers into paying customers by capturing their attention, building trust, and ultimately leading them to take a desired action.
This approach boosts your marketing by making your message stick in people’s minds, building a genuine connection, and clearly showing the value of what you’re offering.2
How “Hook, Story, Offer” Works
The “Hook, Story Offer” method breaks down the process into three key steps:
- Hook: This is the initial grab for attention. It’s like a captivating headline or a surprising statistic that makes the audience stop scrolling and want to learn more. The hook should be relevant to the target audience’s needs or desires and pique their curiosity.
- Story: Once you have their attention, it’s time to tell a story. This story can be about your product or service, but more importantly, it should be about the customer and their journey. Show them how your offering can solve their problems or improve their lives. You can use personal anecdotes, case studies, or humor to make the story relatable and engaging.
- Offer: Finally, present your solution as a clear and enticing offer. This could be a free trial, a discount, a valuable bonus, or simply a clear call to action that tells the audience what you want them to do next.3
Usage
Some common places where the “Hook, Story, Offer” method might be used:
- Video Sales Letters: Starts with a catchy hook, shares a compelling story, and ends with an attractive offer.
- Webinars: Uses the structure to engage viewers, provide value, and present an offer.
- Social Media: Grabs attention with a hook, tells a short story, and makes an offer in posts and ads.
- Email Marketing: Attracts with an exciting subject line (hook), engages with story content, and concludes with an offer.
- Landing Pages: Draws visitors in with a hook, explains benefits through a story, and presents an offer.
- Sales Presentations: Begins with an engaging hook, illustrates points with a story, and closes with an offer.
- Content Marketing: Engages readers or listeners with a hook, maintains interest with a story, and directs to an offer.
- Product Launches: Introduces a new product with a hook, details its development or impact through a story, and unveils an offer.
- Direct Mail: Catches attention with a headline (hook), provides details in the narrative (story), and includes a promotion (offer).
- E-commerce Descriptions: Captures interest with a hook, uses product stories to build connection, and highlights an offer.
Example
- Hook: “Discover the Secret to Doubling Your Sales in 30 Days!”
- Story: “Meet John, a small business owner struggling with stagnant sales. By using our unique strategy, John saw a dramatic increase in customer engagement and revenue.”
- Offer: “Join our program today and get exclusive access to the tools and techniques that transformed John’s business. Act now and start your journey to success!”
Related Terms
References:
1. Brunson, R. (2020). Dotcom Secrets: The Underground Playbook for Growing Your Company Online with Sales Funnels. United States: Hay House. https://www.amazon.com/Dotcom-Secrets-Underground-Playbook-Growing/dp/B08B9ZHVVG/
2. Blankenship, M. (2023, December 12). Hook, story, offer: The 3-step method for selling online. ClickFunnels. https://www.clickfunnels.com/blog/hook-story-offer/
3. Brunson, R. (2023). Traffic Secrets: The Underground Playbook for Filling Your Websites and Funnels with Your Dream Customers. United States: Hay House. https://www.amazon.com/Traffic-Secrets-Underground-Playbook-Customers/dp/1401973736/