Can a colour really have an effect on our physical ability? According to a new study, it can.
Research shows that it isn’t just a myth that the colour red is a stimulant; looking at the colour red actually has a physical effect on our muscles, making our heart beat faster and our breathing speed up.
It also enhances our reactions making us stronger and more forceful, according to the study published in the Journal Emotion.
But why does this matter from a business perspective? When choosing colours for webpages, printed reports and presentations, it’s important to be aware that the colours will have an effect on your staff and customers.
For example, red is often used to stimulate people to make quick decisions – making it perfect for fast paced office environments and ‘Buy Now’ or ‘Click Here’ buttons on online banners and websites. Similarly, other colours trigger different emotions and can be used according to the reaction you want to get from your viewer or customer.
We’ve put together a quick overview of colour meanings to help you select the right colours for your business:
Orange is said to stimulate mental activity and is highly accepted among young people. It is often associated with healthy food and stimulating appetite.
As well as attracting attention, yellow evokes more pleasant, cheerful feelings and is often used to promote children’s products and leisure items.
Green is the most soothing colour for the human eye and suggests stability and endurance so is often used to mean safety.
Blue produces a calming effect and symbolises trust, loyalty and wisdom. Blue is often used when promoting high-tech products. (Our own Brother logo is a good example of this)
Purple tends to convey wealth and extravagance. According to surveys, it is a favourite colour among children so is often used when promoting children’s products.
Feeling inspired to integrate colour into your business? Check out the full Brother colour laser print range.
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