A lot is going on right now, whether it’s the social injustices that have been in the fabric of our country for centuries, and now people are becoming more aware and wanting to make a significant change. Or that fact that we have been in quarantine for months because of COVID19 and we are starting to get restless. A lot of brands are confused and wondering how they should move forward, what should they say, should they remain silent, should they say something?
And the big question each brand has is, how should we connect with our audience during times like these? There is one answer and one solution to all of these questions, and that is to SPEAK UP and most importantly, BE HONEST!
Your Audience Needs You
There is nothing more emotionally connecting than a brand that consumers can trust during troubling times. This is why it is important to speak up when you are unsure because your audience is looking up to you to make sure their voices are heard and seen (as your audience reflects you, right)?
Brands with influential voices and clear values help consumers by lifting them out of fear during crazy times. When you use your voice, your audience feels like they are not going through hard times alone. They feel as if they have a support system, and when you embrace troubling times collectively, you feel a sense of hope, love, and community. Talk with your audience, have a strong stance on what you stand for, and, most importantly, be honest.
Honesty Goes a Long Way
It’s all about honesty, incorporating transparency into the core fabric of your brand is the start of creating clear communication with your audience. Being an great brand means that you are honest with the words that you say, and they match/reflect your brand’s actions.
Right now, is the perfect time for your audience to see what your brand is made off. If you do not have all the answers regarding what is happening in the world, be honest, and let your audience know that they can feel included in your brand’s journey, figuring out your voice. If you have a strong stance and opinion about a topic, speak up, and be honest. Your core audience will reflect your brand’s voice and values. If the words you’re putting out don’t reflect your company’s actions or culture, you are simply not an honest and trustworthy brand- and believe me, your audience is watching.
Now is the RIGHT Time to Connect with Your Audience
As a brand, it is crucial that you stay connected with your audience. Let them know that you are listening, you got there back, and we are all in this together. Find cool and innovative ways to connect and get your brand’s message across. But DO NOT stay silent, your audience needs you more than you ever know. Consumers never forget the brand that made sure their voices were present and had cool ways of doing so.
Is it the wrong time to speak up? NO! It is the perfect time to have a voice that can be Loud, Honest, and Amplified. Your audience will never forget how your brand embraced the changes that were happening and how you were on the right side of history.
Just imagine, once outside opens up, once this country embraces equality, imagine all the new people that will want to experience your brand because you used your brand’s voice for change. That is the goal, isn’t it?
