As a vehicle for showing allegiance, sponsorship, support, or even dismay or disdain, the T-shirt remains a powerful medium of expression.
It’s not uncommon to see startups and established companies giveaway swag to their users and fans, it’s a way to create community and spread the word. But how about holding a contest where your fans design what they think your brand conveys?
I was intrigued by Businessweek’s recent t-shirt design contest, it asked it’s readers to come up with a design that would convey the spirit of notable CEO’s. As you can see from the designs some are very funny and other’s are well not so funny for the CEO.
Would your let your fans do this? What do think they would come up with?
This is a telling example of the times we live in, brands have less control over the message. It requires a great deal of confidence to ask your users to design a t-shirt with what they think your brand conveys but it also gives you an opportunity for a gut check!
This brings shivers down the spine of any brand marketer, but give it a try and see what happens. You might be surprised but also rewarded with a humbling experience.
Key takeaway: Times change and brands change, perception is everything and how your brand acts on a daily basis sends signals to your fans of what they can expect. It’s your job to shape the expectations!
