1-2-3: Reciprocity, Steve Jobs and Nike

1 marketing framework, 2 lessons and 3 ads

Hi marketing nerds,

Welcome to the #1 edition of 1-2-3 Marketing.

Every Saturday, I share with you:

  • 1 marketing framework

  • 2 lessons from the best marketers

  • 3 ads that will blow away your mind

So make sure you subscribe to the newsletter and share it with your friends.

Let’s jump into the main course…

🧠 1 Marketing Framework:

Reciprocity

Reciprocity is a powerful psychological principle that revolves around the concept of mutual exchange or giving and receiving.

In marketing, this principle suggests that when a brand provides value or a positive experience to its audience, it triggers a natural tendency for the audience to reciprocate (return the favor), often in the form of loyalty, engagement, or even a purchase.

A classic example of reciprocity can be observed in the strategy of free trials or samples.

When companies offer customers a taste of their product or service for free, it creates a sense of obligation and gratitude.

This act of giving builds a psychological debt, prompting the recipient to reciprocate by making a purchase or showing increased interest in the brand.

🧑‍🏫2 Lessons From The Best Marketers:

Lesson #1: Master Storytelling by Steve Jobs

One lesson from one of the best marketers in history, Steve Jobs, is the art of storytelling.

Apple's product launches are not mere presentations; they are captivating stories that resonate with people on an emotional level.

Steve Jobs product launches followed a narrative structure:

Beginning with a problem or a challenge, introducing the product as the solution, and concluding with the positive impact it could have on people's lives.

For example, when introducing the iPod, he didn't focus solely on its technical aspects; he framed it as "1,000 songs in your pocket," creating a compelling narrative around the device's impact on music consumption.

Lesson #2: Authenticity Is Key by Gary Vee

Gary Vee gives a valuable lesson in the realm of personal branding: authenticity is key.

He emphasizes the importance of being genuine and true to oneself in the digital age.

In a world saturated with content, he advises individuals and brands to embrace their unique qualities, share their stories, and engage authentically with their audience.

📱3 Ads That Will Blow Your Mind:

Ad #1: Apple – If it’s not an iPhone it’s not an iPhone

This ad campaign by Apple is a masterclass in brand positioning and simplicity.

Apple released this ad campaign in 2015, explaining the unique features you get with an iPhone.

The simplicity of the statement is key; it doesn't go into technical specifications but rather gives a straightforward message – if you want the best, be it the camera or the performance, it has to be an iPhone.

Ad #2: Wendy's 100% Better Than Our Rivals

This ad is a bold and confident declaration in the competitive fast-food landscape.

It strategically positions Wendy's as not just a contender but a superior choice among its competitors.

By claiming to be 100% better, Wendy's communicates a clear message of quality, freshness, and taste.

Ad #3: Nike – Find Your Greatness

Nike's "Find Your Greatness" campaign is a powerful and inspirational call to action that transcends traditional notions of greatness.

Launched during the 2012 London Olympics, the campaign emphasizes that greatness is not confined to elite athletes on a world stage but is accessible to everyone, everywhere.

By celebrating the everyday pursuit of personal goals, Nike encourages individuals to redefine their own greatness and showcases that anyone can embark on their journey towards excellence.

Thank you for reading…

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Please, forward this newsletter to a friend.

It took me more than 6 hours to write, edit and post this, so that’s a fair trade I can ask from you (the principle of reciprocity) 😉

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See you next Saturday,

Armaan.