The Bad Boy's Guide To Marketing : Breaking The Rules

1. Embrace Controversy

Controversy sells. Whether it's a provocative ad campaign or a bold social media statement, stirring up controversy can generate buzz and get people talking about your brand. Just be sure to stay on the right side of the line and avoid offending your target audience.

Example: Nike's "Dream Crazy" campaign featuring Colin Kaepernick sparked controversy and debate, but ultimately resulted in a significant increase in brand awareness and sales.

2. Leverage User-Generated Content

User-generated content (UGC) is a powerful marketing tool. By encouraging customers to create and share content featuring your brand, you can tap into their creativity and showcase your products or services in a unique and authentic way.

Example: GoPro's UGC campaign, which encouraged customers to share their own videos and photos shotting the brand's cameras, resulted in a massive library of engaging content and helped establish the brand as a leader in the action camera market.

3. Host an Unconventional Event

Events are a great way to connect with customers and create memorable experiences. But instead of hosting a traditional conference or trade show, try something unconventional like a pop-up party or a guerrilla marketing stunt.

Example: Red Bull's "Stratos Jump" event, which featured Felix Baumgartner jumping from a helium balloon in the stratosphere, was a daring and unconventional marketing stunt that generated massive buzz and reinforced the brand's image as a purveyor of extreme sports and adventure.

4. Use Humor and Irony

Humor and irony can be powerful marketing tools. By using humor to poke fun at your brand or industry, you can create a memorable and shareable campaign that resonates with your target audience.

Example: Old Spice's "The Man Your Man Could Smell Like" campaign, which featured a humorous and over-the-top ad starring Isaiah Mustafa, became a viral sensation and helped reposition the brand as a leader in the men's grooming market.

5. Partner with Influencers Who Don't Fit the Mold

Influencer marketing is a popular tactic, but instead of partnering with traditional influencers, try working with individuals who don't fit the mold. This could include partnering with micro-influencers, niche experts, or even controversial figures.

Example: Fashion brand Diesel partnered with Nicki Minaj, a controversial and outspoken rapper, to promote their clothing line. The campaign was a huge success and helped Diesel tap into a new and younger audience.

6. Create a Meme-Worthy Campaign

Memes are a staple of internet culture. By creating a campaign that is meme-worthy, you can tap into the power of social media and create a viral sensation.

Example: Wendy's "Nuggs for Carter" campaign, which featured a humorous and relatable meme, became a viral sensation and helped increase brand awareness and sales.

7. Take a Stand on a Social Issue

Taking a stand on a social issue can be a powerful marketing tactic. By showcasing your brand's values and commitment to social responsibility, you can create a positive and lasting impression on your target audience.

Example: Patagonia's "Worn Wear" campaign, which encouraged customers to repair and reuse their clothing rather than discarding it, showcased the brand's commitment to environmental responsibility and helped reinforce its image as a leader in sustainable fashion.

Conclusion

Marketing is an art, not a science. By breaking the rules and embracing unconventional tactics and strategies, you can create a marketing campaign that truly stands out and leaves a lasting impression on your target audience. Remember to stay bold, take risks, and always keep your audience in mind. With these tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a marketing campaign that is truly bad boy-approved.

What's your favorite unconventional marketing tactic? Share your thoughts in the comments below!