
doi: 10.1057/bm.2012.45
This study tests hypotheses integrating relational aspects of social networks, self-expressive brands and consumers’ brand advocacy. We explore the relationship between homophily and social ties, and the extent to which strong ties are associated with Facebook users’ incorporation of self-expressive brands in their personal profiles by ‘Liking’ them. We also examine the relationship between self-expressive brands ‘Liked’ on Facebook, and consumers’ brand advocacy in online and offline settings. A survey of 265 Facebook users reveals stronger social ties influence consumers to ‘Like’ brands that express their inner and social selves. Self-expressive brands reflecting one's inner or social self encourage consumers to offer positive WOM on social networks. Further, self-expressive brands ‘Liked’ on Facebook positively influence consumers’ brand acceptance, and their willingness to forgive ‘Liked’ brands for wrongdoing. Managerial implications along with implications for theory development are explored.
| selected citations These citations are derived from selected sources. This is an alternative to the "Influence" indicator, which also reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | 99 | |
| popularity This indicator reflects the "current" impact/attention (the "hype") of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network. | Top 1% | |
| influence This indicator reflects the overall/total impact of an article in the research community at large, based on the underlying citation network (diachronically). | Top 10% | |
| impulse This indicator reflects the initial momentum of an article directly after its publication, based on the underlying citation network. | Top 10% |
