Lacey Taylor
Confession: I'm not one to make traditional New Year's resolutions.
Are you goal-oriented and ambitious? Yes.
But many people, both in their personal lives and in the marketing world, quickly emerge from their holiday hibernation.
It happens so fast that by the end of January they are exhausted and frustrated because of unmet or abandoned goals. That's not sustainable. Please welcome the new year slowly. Present the opportunity to the world before you commit to it.
I don't want to be like everyone else, and neither should you. Think of new ways to start the year off right.
Start Bold and Purposeful
Anyone can write a press release or post on social media. While these still seem tried and true for an integrated marketing plan, we encourage you to start thinking “bold and purposeful” with these questions:
Others are also reading…
What is the boldest thing we can do?
What is something that no one has done before or that is unexpected?
Last December, a giant Pop-Tart named “Strawberry” appeared at a college football bowl game. Most people probably don't remember which team played that night, but the world is still talking about the first edible mascot. After the game, it was happily placed in the toaster and ready for the players to eat after the win.
Imagine being in the room when someone pitches the idea of a giant edible Pop-Tart mascot. Perhaps some people think it's stupid or a waste of resources.
Pop-Tarts and footballs have been around for decades, but it was a bold and intentional move to generate buzz.
result? The following week, the Pop-Tart shelves at the grocery store were visibly empty.
Think boldly before diving into tactics. This encourages ambitious thinking. Brainstorm ways you can reach your audience without defaulting to why things aren't working.
Rethink standard communication tactics
Tulsa's technology and restaurant industries are rapidly growing.
Agencies can plan and execute a traditional ribbon cutting while we sleep.
Instead of standard ribbons or Shrek-sized scissors, consider ceremonial acts that align with your brand identity, service, or mission.
This year, go beyond billboards and hire a local artist to create a branded mural on your building or unused space.
A local muralist can design artwork that creates buzz for your business and drives social media engagement and word-of-mouth advertising.
The community values public art. please think about it. Your branding strategy can become a permanent part of your community's identity.
Accept less-loyal customers
“Why would you do that?!” I hear you gasp. Some national parks have embraced their low ratings, attracting new fans and creating buzz online.
Zion National Park created an Instagram video of a ranger walking through the park reading 1-star Google reviews, receiving more than 16,000 likes compared to an average of 3,000 per post.
New York Times bestselling author and illustrator Amber Sher has created a collectible book of artistic posters designed based on the park's bad reputation. Her popular Instagram, @subparparks, is a great example of turning bad reviews into positive buzz.
Engagement is now on the rise, and brands are embracing humor and, in some cases, silencing naysayers.
None of these ideas are new to the marketing world. But all have a common approach. Think big, be bold, and think differently. Think about logistics later.
Many people make New Year's resolutions to cut back on something, such as cutting out sugar.
Don't get me wrong. I can help you with your health and wellness goals and anything that will make you feel happier.
What I'm saying is, approach New Year's goals and marketing goals differently.
Don't limit your team, your clients, or your own talent from creating new ways to generate buzz.
Lacey Taylor is Vice President of Client Services at Resolute PR.