Influence of Electronic Word of Mouth (e-WOM) on Brand Credibility and Egyptian Consumers' Purchase Intentions

Abstract

Electronic communication has become an essential part of consumers' everyday lives. Consumers rely on the internet as an alternative source of information pertaining to brands that can be accessed easily. As a result, electronic word of mouth (e-WOM) has become a force to be reckoned with that needs to be understood in order to be properly managed. This research investigates how the credibility of the brand as a source of information might be influenced by consumers' engagement in e-WOM and whether this influence subsequently reflects on their purchase intentions. The research findings indicate that indeed there is a relationship between e-WOM and brand credibility that reflects both directly and indirectly on the consumer's purchase intentions. Based on this, several recommendations are developed to help managers navigate their online presence in a way that specifically suits their consumers' internet usage patterns, in order to effectively manage available e-WOM on their brands.