Just in time for Halloween, we’re taking a look at the iconic character of Freddy Krueger and how you can learn some solid marketing principles from his behavior.
Almost anyone can recognize Freddy Krueger, even if they aren’t familiar with the dozen or so movies in which he has a starring role. With a burned body, a clawed glove, and a horrendous striped sweater, Freddy Krueger remains one of the creepiest and best-loved icons in the gamut of horror movie legends.
What does that have to do with marketing? Well, murder aside, Freddy Krueger’s personality and actions reveal some solid tips you can use in your marketing campaign:
1. Know Your Territory. Freddy is unstoppable when you’re dreaming—and he knows it. Instead of trying to spread yourself thin across platforms you don’t understand, stick to the territory you know and become a master in it.
2. Keep a Look. Any horror fan can spot a red and green striped sweater a mile away. If Freddy had worn it only once, it wouldn’t have an ounce of recognizability over the long-term. Keep your logo and branding consistent if you don’t want to be forgotten.
3. Be Creative. Some of the most memorable scenes in horror movie history have come from the sheer inventiveness of Freddy’s pursuits. Applied to your own industry, that creativity can really showcase your potential and demonstrate your authority as a thought leader.
4. Get in Your Customers’ Heads. Freddy plays on his victims’ fears in order to heighten their terror, but you can use similar techniques to play on your customers’ desires. Study your target audience, figure out what they want, and find a way to give it to them.
5. Lighten Up. Freddy cracked a lot of jokes as he chased people through their nightmares, and he wasn’t a bit less intimidating because of it. Don’t be afraid to include humor in your brand voice. Make jokes. Have fun. People will respond.
If you liked this entry in our “marketing tips to learn from _____” series, be sure to check out our entries on Iron Man, Obi-Wan Kenobi, the Terminator, and Lex Luthor, too!
