Event marketing aficionados know that in-your-face authenticity is hot

There is something alluring about in-your-face authenticity. It’s sensational yet attractive, like Arthur Fonzarelli, better known as The Fonz.  People liked Fonzie.  He got what he wanted seamlessly, without sacrificing his values. That is, until he literally jumped the shark.

Jumping the shark is not

Jumping the shark, an idiom for when something well established begins a decline, originated when the writers of Happy Days had Fonzie literally jump a shark while on skis, wearing his trademark leather jacket and all.

Ride your Harley into the party

Losing your base can be pretty easy when you’re a big name with a known reputation like The Fonz or (insert your favorite brand name here).  A solid brand has already established where it fits, and has spent significantly to be there.  Any experiential marketing program, influencer event or otherwise, should be authentic to the soul of the brand, and honest to the expectations attendees have.  If you’re the Fonz, ride your Harley into the party. If you’re Grey Goose, showcase your signature cocktails in a super premium lounge. Event marketing is about more than just an attention grab.

Going over the top is not always better.  Simply slapping a well known name on something overly-sensational is unlikely to be good for a brand, even if it would get eyeballs.  You’ve probably already had an example or two come to mind, so I’ll politely refrain from naming any myself.

Cultivate an honest relationship

Experiential marketing — whether at a large event on in private — cultivates an honest, well-defined relationship. Isn’t that why we loved The Fonz?  He was edgy but he was true to the core.  Then…he jumped the shark.  So, aaay!  Learn from the Fonz.  Be cool. Authenticity is where it’s at.  Don’t be something you’re not, even if it promises to be a unique event marketing experience…or your brand may become the next symbol for jumping the shark.

Gillette’s “Uncut” campaign is a brilliantly produced series of short music films featuring four of today’s top music artists/acts. Rather than jamming these artists into typical celebrity spokesperson roles, Gillette opted to give consumers something they couldn’t get anywhere else – a ringside seat on tour with – and in the dressing room of – will.i.am (Black Eyed Peas), All American Rejects, Mark Hoppus (Blink 182), and Tim McGraw.

Give something of value.

will.i.am, Black Eyed Peas

Danny Clinch, whose extensive experience with rock photography and live concert films is apparent, delivers a brief yet intimate look into life on tour in authentic rock-umentary fashion. With delivery ranging from thoughtful to inspired to cocky, the artists invite viewers to experience their private pre-show rituals.

Make it great and people will talk.

Tim McGraw

Not surprisingly, every short film includes shaving in the preparations, but it’s done with a touch so deft it feels completely natural. Consumers who want to dive deeper (and who have the patience for things to load) can learn how to “shave like a rock star” with assorted Gillette (and P&G) brands on the website.

Deliver brand message with authenticity.

All American Rejects

While I’m not Gillette’s target market, as a consumer/marketer/music-lover I’m impressed on multiple levels by this campaign – and I’m talking about it. If more brands considered how to add value to their consumers’ lives, advertising as we know it would be dramatically different.

It’s no surprise that experiential marketing has become a staple in the marketing mix of thoughtful brands – it intrinsically delivers value to consumers. When experiential marketing is designed, planned, and executed properly consumers talk – in person and via social media – about the brand experience, ultimately resulting in substantial ROI.

Generate WOM to deliver ROI.

So congratulations, Gillette!  You’ve certainly captured my attention.  While you probably didn’t design “Uncut” with experiential marketing tenets in mind, it’s clear that we share a fundamental approach to winning the hearts and minds (and buying power) of consumers.  Any time you want to talk, I’ll be backstage getting ready for the curtain to rise.

Mark Hoppus, Blink 182