Brand Bravery without the Cringe
We all know professionalism is important for any business. But let's face it – clinging to a stiff, corporate image can stifle the creativity and personality that connects you with your audience. Brands should dare to bravely go beyond the fear of appearing "cringy" when it is exactly those oddities that makes us human. Authenticity, after all, is crucial for brand success, particularly in the vibrant and competitive market in Cape Town.
Why "Cringe" Can Actually Be Lowkey Fire
Be on trend. Don’t worry. People won’t really think you’ve lost your marbles. Surprise is after all a great eye catcher. A brand's personality and values can still come through in an edgy campaign. A forced, polished image often reads as insincere, creating distance between a brand and its audience. Embracing a pop culture reference from now and again shows your sense of humour.
No Cap: How to Slay the Branding Game
Spice it up. Brands that take risks and push boundaries stand a better chance of capturing attention and etching themselves into consumers' minds. This means injecting humour, trying out trending visuals, or using a more open and honest communication style.
Vibe Check: How to Speak Straight Facts
Keep them locked in. People are less swayed by sales jargon and yearn for brands that resonate with their language and the world they live in. You don’t need to reinvent the wheel. Embrace a more playful, irreverent, and experimental approach in some campaigns, just to show that there is indeed a real person behind the wizard’s curtain and soon you’ll be popular (a la Wicked).
Building a Team That's High-Key Lit
Write it into the brand guide. A set of guidelines empowers the marketing team to know what no-go areas they should avoid.They’ll be able to create more inspired and engaging content. It also expidites the sign off process, which could otherwise have made you miss the boat entirely. When employees feel empowered to be themselves and take risks, it can spark innovation and cultivate a more vibrant and dynamic brand overall.
Dropping beats Without Looking Sus
Embracing imperfection with authenticity can be a brand's superpower. Revive the appeal of your brand to feel current, real and relatable. So, ditch the corporate robot. Embrace your little quirks, those unexpected moments that make you, well, you. Have some fun. Now go out there and make some magic!
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