A new study from the University of California, Berkeley, has found that consumers are more likely to remember ads that feature people who are part of their social group. The study, published in the journal "Marketing Science," found that this effect is strongest for ads that feature people who are members of the consumer's Facebook friend network.

The researchers believe that this effect occurs because people are more likely to pay attention to ads that are relevant to their own lives. When people see an ad that features someone who is part of their social group, they are more likely to feel a connection to the ad and to be interested in the product or service being advertised.

This finding has important implications for marketers. By targeting ads to specific social groups, marketers can increase the likelihood that their ads will be seen and remembered. Marketers can also use this finding to create more effective ads by featuring people who are part of the target audience's social group.

Key takeaways for marketers:

* Target ads to specific social groups to increase the likelihood that your ads will be seen and remembered.

* Feature people who are part of the target audience's social group in your ads to create a stronger connection with the audience.

* Use social media to identify and target your key audience segments.

Here are some examples of how marketers can use this finding to create more effective ads:

* A retailer could target ads for a new clothing line to women who are members of a fashion-focused Facebook group.

* A travel agency could target ads for a new vacation package to families who are members of a family travel Facebook group.

* A car company could target ads for a new car model to men who are members of a car enthusiast Facebook group.

By following these tips, marketers can increase the effectiveness of their advertising campaigns and reach their target audience more effectively.