Chief Marketer
we've got a lot to talk about
April 12, 2020

There’s a lot of uncertainty in the marketplace right now, but one thing remains consistent from week to week: Marketing communications are in the spotlight—or, in some cases, the hot seat. (Remember when year-over-year was a thing? Ah, memories.)

In order to avoid a marketing fail in this COVID-19 environment, marketers need to be thinking about brand reputation in the long-term, adjusting creative to fit a new reality and adding real value for consumers. A prime example of this: Dove’s new “Courage Is Beautiful” ad campaign. You’ve likely seen the de-masked faces of medical professionals on news sites and in videos pleading for Americans to #StayHome. Dove’s campaign is an example of a brand adapting its creative to the current moment while remaining true to its tradition of challenging traditional beauty norms.

Given its massive online audiences, the esports industry can continue live tournaments viewed from within the confines of consumers’ homes. Read about how Jones Soda pivoted to a digital esports sponsorship in the absence of live events.

We also look at six insights surrounding D2C marketing this week—from customer experience to measurement to segmentation—culled from interviews with John Sheldon, CMO of SmileDirectClub, and Manasi Gangan, Nested Bean Founder and President.

Data from a new McKinsey report indicates that U.S. consumer sentiment remains largely optimistic, but purchase behavior is shifting and spending will be reduced. Discretionary purchases are out, while new categories are seeing first-time participation.

Lastly, we outline six digital marketing trends that are impacting businesses in 2020, from an enhanced focus on customer experience to AI-augmented content to company-wide data integration.

Stay healthy, folks. We'll talk next week.

Kaylee Hultgren
Group Content Manager
Chief Marketer


 
Avoiding Marketing Communications Fails in COVID-19 Era

Brands must focus on adding value to consumers and ensure creative is adapted to reflect the crisis.
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SmileDirectClub, Nested Bean Offer Six Insights on Direct-to-Consumer Marketing

Six insights about D2C marketing culled from interviews with marketers at SmileDirectClub and Nested Bean.
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Jones Soda Pivots to Esports Marketing During COVID-19 Fallout

Esports and gaming tournaments are continuing online. Here's how one brand pivoted to esports marketing.
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Tips for Marketing Teams Working From Home

Essential tips for marketers working from home—from managing teams to video conferencing.
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Social Media Listening and Platform Updates for Marketers

How marketers can use COVID-19 mentions on social media for social listening.
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