Ian Gattie’s Post

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I help organizations thrive | Fractional CMO | 4X Head of Marketing | University Professor | Dad

Nike was floundering until this one decision. In the late 1980s, Nike faced a crisis. Sales were dropping. Competitors were gaining ground. They needed a change: What happened next changed the brand forever. Nike was trying to speak to elite athletes while ignoring the larger market of everyday fitness enthusiasts. The problem? Nike's messaging didn’t resonate with the broader audience. Nike recognized a crucial brand truth: everyone has a body and is a potential athlete. This insight sparked the creation of the "Just Do It" campaign. This simple phrase tapped into deep human emotions surrounding sports and fitness. It connected joy and empowerment to physical activity. The results were staggering. Nike's sales soared by 1,000% over the next ten years. The campaign became a blueprint for brands to communicate their purpose and resonate deeply with their audience. You don’t need a massive budget or a celebrity endorsement to have a meaningful impact. Identify your brand's truth. Find the intersection of social need, purpose, and consumer demand. Create messaging that speaks to real experiences and emotions. That’s how you build a strong brand. Reflect on your brand's message. Is it authentic? Is it accessible? Your brand has the power to inspire. Don’t waste it.

That "Just Do It" campaign is legendary. It's amazing how authentic messaging can transform a brand. How do you think brands today can find their core truth?

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