subject: How To Use Humor For Marketing [print this page] As most of us enjoy laughing, its easy to see why using humor is a fantastic marketing tool. Humor can put people at ease and make hard or dull information easier to digest. It also touches people on an emotional level, which makes them more likely to remember a campaign.
Jokes
If youre conducting a workshop, a good way to begin can be through a funny icebreaker. Not only is the humor relaxing, but it gets a group interacting. Similarly, starting a presentation with a humorous story can put people at ease, especially if the jokes aimed at yourself.
Situation comedy can be a good way of selling a particular product. A story can be created that involves the product and targets the audience you want to sell it to.
Cartoons
If you dont feel comfortable with stand-up, cartoons are another option. In fact, theyve been proven as one of the most effective marketing tools. This is mainly because they can get a message across quickly and easily. Theyre also a fantastic way of attracting a readers attention.
Using humorous images can increase the chances of individuals remembering your campaign. Theyre a fantastic way to liven up almost any vehicle:
newsletters,
training manuals,
fax cover sheets,
websites,
advertising,
E-mails.
For the latter, a funny cartoon increases the chances of it being forwarded on. This, inadvertently, is advertising for you.
Pitfalls
When using humor for marketing, its important to be aware of the not-so-funny blunders.
Political correctness: although possible with stand-up, if youre wanting to market to the largest demographic, then try not to alienate or insult anyone.
Dark humor: for marketing, keep your humor bright. Its important to appeal to the majority, and some may find harsh humor uncomfortable.
Misinterpretation: this is especially important when considering written communication because its less likely that youll be able to gauge their reaction.
Target audience: bear in mind who youre pitching to.
Excess: its important that your product doesnt get lost within the gags. Keep what youre selling at the forefront.
Copyright and licensing: make sure you check the licensing rules before you copy an image. Businesses can purchase licensing fees easily online.
Resources
The best resource is, undoubtedly, the Internet; a multitude of websites offer gags and cartoons. If you cant find the cartoon you want, there are cartoonists available who will tailor make one for you. Some even offer a 24-hour service. Magazines and newspapers are another option. You may even choose to contact a cartoonist through a paper if you discover a style you like.
In Conclusion
Humor is a fantastic way to get a message across and make it memorable. Its also a great persuasion tool by which to gain the trust of your audience. However, its important to bear in mind your customers and what would be most appropriate for them as well as the product.
