Should you add memes to your marketing strategy?
Memes are the Internet’s favourite inside joke. Should your brand be part of it? (Yes and no)
The rise of memes in marketing
Memes have become an integral part of the Internet culture, and they’ve probably been one of my favourite things during the Olympics.
Many marketers, myself included, enjoyed it and created a loooot of content (just check out #OlympicsMemes) — I found myself watching all the random sports ready to spot the next opportunity for a good meme.
I was playing around with finding the perfect caption.
I even posted a few memes on brand accounts that are comfortable with sharing such content on their profiles.
The benefits of meme marketing
There are clear reasons why you should embrace memes:
Increased engagement: When done well, memes can significantly boost engagement. They're often shareable and can spark conversations among your audience.
Relatability: Memes often tap into shared experiences or emotions, making your brand feel more relatable to your target audience.
Showing personality: Using memes allows you to display a more casual, humourous side of your brand, which can help build a stronger connection with your audience.
Timeliness: Memes are often tied to current events or trends, allowing your brand to appear up-to-date and in touch with your audience's interests.
Things to consider
Overreliance: You don’t want to overdo it by sharing memes all the time. It should not be the only way you get engagement.
Brand inconsistency: Remember that you're still representing a brand, not posting from a personal account. Ensure that the memes you use align with your brand voice and values.
Misinterpretation: Memes can sometimes be misunderstood or potentially offend certain groups. It's important to be considerate when selecting memes to share.
Copyright issues: You should still keep in mind the copyright issues a meme can lead to. Even more if you thought of using them for commercial reasons.
The verdict: yes, but with moderation
Incorporating memes into your marketing strategy can be an effective way to engage with your audience and show a more approachable side of your brand. However, like any marketing tactic, it should be used as part of a bigger plan.
When considering memes for your marketing:
Ensure they align with your brand voice and values
Use them only at appropriate times
Be aware of potential cultural sensitivities
Monitor their performance and adjust your strategy as needed