By Sammy Ahmed
In this time of upheaval, many brands are asking themselves the hard questions: Is now a good time to launch a new product? Can we use messaging that’s lighthearted and playful at a time when people are neither? What’s the best way to stay agile in the face of uncertainty?
At Twitter, we’ve seen how conversations can make a difference. We’ve been humbled and inspired by the brands that have stepped up over the past few months to lead the way for others. We’ve also seen that conversations can drive business results for your brand. According to a recent Twitter study, a 10 percent increase in brand conversation could increase brand sales revenue by up to 3 percent.
For brands that are considering how to take action during this time, we’ve got you.
Here are seven strategies and insights that draw on the best practices from the most effective brand activations on Twitter so far this year. These seven strategies draw from the recent success of leading brands that understood the customers’ mindset and today’s new landscape before taking action.
So, how did these brands succeed?
1. Lead by listening.
The brands that have thrived have understood that people want brands to be communicative, supportive and people-first—82 percent of people want to know how brands are supporting frontline staff, their own employees, vulnerable individuals and local business. Leading brands take the time to understand their customers’ mindset before jumping in to help.
2. Lead with purpose.
Now, more than ever, brands need to show their ideals—82 percent of those surveyed say brands should use their position to affect positive change in society. You can identify your brand’s place in this moment by clarifying your three Ps: purpose (what guides your brand), people (how you are supporting those most impacted by a crisis) and pledge (how you plan on giving back).
3. Lead by example.
Sixty-seven percent of people on Twitter want to know about how brands are supporting those in need, including their own employees. Conversation leaders also tend to follow a common set of rules:
Do:
- Provide useful information to help people navigate uncertainty and remain calm.
- Broadcast any initiatives you’ve launched that address issues customers have raised.
Don’t:
- Make promises you can’t keep.
- View misfortune as a marketing opportunity.
- Shun interactions with frustrated customers.
4. Lead with something new.
Brands that launch (or relaunch) in a downturn experienced 15 to 25 percent greater excessive share of voice growth than the general average growth.
5. Lead by connecting.
Brands lead by connecting and maintaining relevance by turning live events into virtual ones, connecting to virtual celebrations of occasions and leaning into what people care about.
6. Lead with agility.
Brands lead with agility and use creative ideas to solve existing limitations. They evolve their content strategy by transforming old assets into new ones, creating new content with creators and influencers, and rethinking their live events.
7. Lead with positivity.
At a time when people are hungry for lighthearted content—70 percent of people on Twitter think it’s important for brands to help boost positivity and promote positive stories. They do this by sharing moments of humanity and levity with their followers, creating unique experiences and engaging people around their interests.
Credit: Ad Age