If nobody had ever had the crazy idea one day of putting ketchup on shepherd’s pie, thousands of children would be living with perpetual disappointment on their plates today. We tell it like it is: steak/corn/potatoes/ketchup—it’s so obvious, a winning idea, a must for any parent who likes to eat hot food in peace and harmony. And now, what if someone suggested trying it with mayonnaise?
As you probably know, content must play a leading role in your marketing strategy. But in a world where we’re submerged every day in a sea of blog articles, chat videos, and top-10 lists of unusual things to do with a toothpick, creating isn’t enough. You have to be creative.
3 Things You Should Know About Creativity
Being creatively bold is a necessity
In the era of smartphones, smart TV, and free Wi-Fi, opportunities for consuming content are everywhere. So it’s not surprising that it’s becoming increasingly difficult to hold the attention of your customers. Your audience is spoiled for choice and won’t hesitate to be picky. Like a fiery husband armed with a flat screen and a remote control, they’re the ones who decide what’s worth watching. In such a context, brands have to find ways to stand out, and being daring is the key.
Constraints fuel creativity
An unlimited budget, a blank schedule, content with no limits as to length, an indeterminate format: Welcome to every marketing specialist’s fantasy! And yet… while we naturally tend to consider them the number one enemy to be defeated, constraints force us to borrow a bolder form of storytelling. Take it from us: the best stories are born from extremes. Embrace constraints like there’s no tomorrow, and pay them for supper! They’re the best thing that can happen to you.
Your audience is longing to participate
Ask reality TV stars, influencers, or your next-door neighbour: These days, there’s no need to be a qualified professional to be part of history! You may have put him in a time-out in the corner for the past 30 years, but remember that there’s a 5-year-old child in each of us capable of creating a magical universe with two snow peas, a fork, and a pile of mashed potatoes. In other words: anyone can be creative, and if you share common interests with a community, you just need to invite them to band together with you to be collectively creative. Ignoring the adult in you and daring to let go of even a quarter of the reins can give rise to little gems of creativity. This is also part of being creatively bold.
Does creative courage intimidate you? Never forget that this is the price to pay to reach your audience. Explore themes that challenge the human condition, find brand-new ways of tackling them, and experiment without moderation. Make your audience feel something. They’ll thank you for it by giving you their attention.
Ready to become the next Karate Kid of creativity? We’re waiting for your call to play your Mr. Miyagi.
For a little practical guide to start thinking outside the box again, ask Marie-Claude!
To learn more about our creative lab, click here!