Blog Post 3
THE IMPORTANCE OF UNDERSTANDING CONSUMERS AND COMMUNITIES
This past year has changed the way I see communities, I think that this year has redefined how people interact with others and brands, it’s made me wondering if we are shifting towards a completely digital world and marketplace?
It is true that people participate with social media in different ways. Some to be entertained, others to be informed and for some to socially connect. I feel like now more than ever people are on social media during these COVID times. Facebook has seen consumers usage increase immensely across their platforms, including Instagram and Messenger, as people look to connect and find entertainment in isolation.
If companies are not yet harnessing their social media presence the time is NOW! It has been amazing to see many brands adapt and come up with innovative ways to keep their consumers connected, for example online DJ sets (Defected Virtual Festival), virtual conferences (IAAPA), and exciting collaborations that can help consumers stay in touch with the brand. It’s all about understanding the consumers and digitally marketing to them effectively. My gym, ‘Body Fit’ for example is hosting daily live streams coaching us through the workouts as well as having a ‘celebrity Saturday’ where they bring go live with an Australian celebrity and coach them through the workout. This content is just for members who are paying for access to their app. This also allows the gym community to stay connected during this crazy time. Obviously, each business is different but now more than ever it is about making sure that communities feel supported and engaged.
This pandemic has really impacted the way I see communities and the potential to stay connected online. I think that is essential for businesses to tap into this and create relevant campaigns to help drive business while still being relevant to the times.
What are some of the ways you’ve seen businesses try to create a sense of community while staying true to their product/brand?
12 Comments on Blog Post 3
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jesse
August 2, 2020 at 11:40 pm (4 years ago)Great read! I know with a few sporting associations that I am apart of, they have been actively trying to engage followers through interview livestreams. Many have been interviewing famous athletes to provide interesting content for followers. It also helps demonstrate that other high performance athletes are being impacted by the virus, and it allows them to demonstrate what they have being doing to make the most out of our inconvenient situation. I look forward to your next post!
-Jesse
Naomi McKeogh
August 3, 2020 at 4:10 am (4 years ago)Thanks Jesse for your comment. It’s been great to see what ways businesses are continuing to generate content for their followers.
Lili
August 3, 2020 at 8:10 am (4 years ago)Great thoughts naomi! I’ve seen so many clothing brands start to show the ‘behind the scenes’ concepts with FaceTime photo shoots!
Naomi McKeogh
August 3, 2020 at 11:17 am (4 years ago)Love this concept! Thanks for your comment Lili x
Chloe Schiavone
August 3, 2020 at 12:07 pm (4 years ago)Love your piece Naomi!! I’ve seen recently that Spotlight have sent out a guide to all subscribers of how to make their own face masks using the fabrics and elastic they sell in store! I found this really engaging and helpful knowing that they are caring about the community while still staying true to their brand and products!
Naomi McKeogh
August 4, 2020 at 12:19 am (4 years ago)Thanks for your comment Chloe, thats such a good initiative and also can result in a rise in sales for them. -Naomi
Indi Robertson
August 4, 2020 at 3:49 am (4 years ago)Hi Naomi,
Another great post!
I have definitely noticed a shift in businesses harnessing a sense of comradery in times like these. High end restaurants such as Attica have created home cooking boxes with preparation instructions whereby you can still enjoy the elements of fine dining but enjoy it in the comfort of your own home.
Thanks Naomi look forward to more!
Regards Indi Robertson
Naomi McKeogh
August 4, 2020 at 5:07 am (4 years ago)So true. Defiantly the time to get creative with ways to still engage consumers.
Didn’t know Attica was doing that- that’s amazing!
Thanks Indi!
Xanthe
August 6, 2020 at 4:51 am (4 years ago)Super interesting read Naomi! I’ve honestly been so impressed with how so many brands are handling themselves during this crisis – I never would have thought that they would all be able to adapt themselves as well as they have and make the best out of an awful situation. I work in hospitality and my work is always trying to think of new things that they can do to help out and inspire the community to keep on keeping on at the moment – which has been amazing to watch. Looking forward to your next post – would love for you to check out my blog too and leave any feedback! https://xbarrsmith5.wixsite.com/website/post/panic-buying-and-how-it-went-viral
Naomi McKeogh
August 6, 2020 at 5:21 am (4 years ago)Thanks for your comment! Yeah I agree defiantly the time to be thinking outside of the box and keep brands out there.
-Naomi
savannah
August 10, 2020 at 10:33 am (4 years ago)Hi Naomi, amazing blog post! I personally think a lot of influencers and you-tubers have created a sense of community.I mean influencers are a brand as well right? I feel very connected with people i follow on Instagram and really trust and follow the brands they are promoting.
Naomi McKeogh
August 11, 2020 at 4:29 am (4 years ago)Yeah I agree with that. I’ve been watching a hand full of you-tubers since I was a teenager so I genuinely believe what they promote. I feel like it’s up to individuals to create their own perspective of trust with sources that they can rely on.