(Part 1 of 4)
At Foxtown Marketing, we like to have fun. Maybe TOO MUCH fun sometimes.
For example, we have run campaigns for our clients that included a life-like gorilla suit, hundreds of boxes of Girl Scout cookies (Thin Mints, which are the best flavor) and a billboard in New York’s Time Square with messaging that would not get the approval of my mother. Sorry, Mom!
Attention spans are shrinking and competition is fierce. It’s crucial to find innovative ways to capture the attention of your target audience.
Most of the time, you have only a few seconds to grab someone’s attention.
If you’re lucky, you can keep them around for 280 characters.
If you’re REALLY lucky, they’ll read your whole post.
And if you are EXCEPTIONAL, they will read your stuff, then take some action you’d like them to take.
Humor has the remarkable ability to engage, connect and leave a lasting impression on consumers.
HOWEVER, using humor can backfire if you’re not careful.
There’s nothing wrong with taking some risks, but you should take those risks with your eyes wide open. There should be no surprises about who might end up offended if you are pushing the envelope.
By leveraging the power of laughter, you can create memorable campaigns that stand out in a crowded marketplace.
Why humor?
Humor possesses a unique quality to break down barriers and connect people on an emotional level. When used strategically in marketing, it can generate positive associations with your brand, foster relatability and enhance likability.
On the flip side, marketing without emotion is a first-class ticket to nowhere.
Here are a few ways that humor will work in your marketing if you do it right.
Capture Attention
In a world bombarded with advertisements, humor serves as a powerful tool to grab the attention of your audience. A well-executed humorous ad can interrupt the monotony of everyday life and create a memorable moment that resonates with viewers.
Enhance Memorability
We tend to remember things that make us laugh. By infusing humor into your marketing campaigns, you increase the likelihood that your message will stick in the minds of consumers. This can lead to higher brand recall and improved brand recognition.
Foster Emotional Connections
Humor triggers positive emotions, and when people associate those emotions with your brand, it creates a strong bond. By using humor, you can humanize your brand, build rapport and create a sense of camaraderie with your audience.
Differentiate Your Brand
Humor can set you apart from competitors by giving your brand a distinctive voice and personality. In a crowded marketplace, a clever and humorous campaign can make your brand more memorable and help you stand out from the crowd.
Stay tuned for Part 2 where we will dive into the nuts and bolts of using humor in your marketing the right way.
