Using GIFs and Memes in your Marketing

You’ve seen them, you’ve shared them, but let’s learn a little more about what they are and why (or why not) you should use GIFs or memes in your marketing.

GIF

/ɡif,jif/

noun

noun: GIF

a lossless format for image files that supports both animated and static images.

Our eyes and our natural instinct are naturally drawn to motion. While we scroll on social media or read a newsletter from one of our favorite brands, an image that has motion is going to catch our eye more than something that is still. 

Here are some great GIF ideas that you could use:

• Use a GIF to show off your products and create connections. We like how Starbucks is showing off their various holiday cups as well as the variety of holiday celebrations their customers celebrate. 

• Use a gif to convey an eye catching way to display time. Whether it is a drink or a clock running the motion can convey that your offer is for a limited time. 

You can also use GIFs that have already been created from sites like GIPHY.com. If you choose to use a GIF that is already created make sure it is relevant to your brand and messaging and available for public use. 

meme

/mēm/

noun

noun: meme; plural noun: memes

a humorous image, video, piece of text, etc., that is copied (often with slight variations) and spread rapidly by Internet users.

Memes have a lot to do with popular culture and what is relevant in the here and now:

For example:

• The woman yelling at the cat meme has been everywhere. It is relevant in social media culture, but may not be conducive to your brand messaging unless you are comparing something

• The 5 Love Languages has become quite buzzworthy in the past year as more people have been taking the “Love Language” test to figure out where they fit. The examples of each type with a relatable statement for your brand may be a creative way to explain your brand or services. 

Memes are also meant to be sharable so you may receive more attention from new follows, In the end, you’ll want to make sure the meme building a community of your ideal clients.

If your audience has a finger on the pulse of what is popular AND if you can relate your service or product to a GIF or meme, using them is a great way to connect to your audience in an informal way. You really can’t take yourself too seriously when using this type of media. 

Don’t mind us as we look for more baby Yoda memes and GIFs (our current favorites) that are making us happy today.

via GIPHY