Staying True: Why Not Every Trend Is Your Brand’s BFF

Introduction

In the ever-spinning carousel of social media trends, it’s tempting to hop on every bandwagon.

Viral audios, dance challenges, hashtag holidays—they’re all glittering sirens, promising fame

and fortune.

But here’s the truth: not every trend aligns with your brand’s compass. In fact, blindly chasing trends can lead you off-course faster than a squirrel on caffeine.

So, let’s break it down. Why should you resist the urge to trend-hop? And how can you stay

grounded while everyone else is doing the Macarena?

The Trend Trap

Picture this: your brand sells artisanal pickles. Suddenly, there’s a TikTok trend—people juggling pickles while reciting Shakespeare. It’s viral! But wait. Does it fit your brand? Are pickle-juggling soliloquies part of your identity? Probably not.

The Brand Identity Reality Check

Know Thyself:

Your brand isn’t a chameleon. It has values, personality, and a mission. Before

chasing trends, ask: “Does this trend vibe with our pickle-loving, eco-conscious, quirky soul?”

Audience Whispers:

Your target audience isn’t a monolith. They’re individuals with quirks,

cravings, and opinions. Will they resonate with pickle-juggling? Or will they raise an eyebrow

and reach for the dill chips?

The Trend Filter:

Imagine trends as Instagram filters. Some enhance your features; others make

you look like a blurry potato. Apply the right filter—discard the rest.

The Trend-Brand Compatibility Test

The Authenticity Check:

Does the trend feel like you’re wearing someone else’s shoes? If it pinches, kick it off.

The Values Alignment:

Trends with shared values are your BFFs. If the trend screams

“sustainability” and your brand whispers “plastic-free,” go for it.

The Audience Litmus Test:

Ask your audience. Polls, surveys, carrier pigeons—whatever works.

If they shout “Yay!”—you’re golden. If they squint and say, “Huh?”—reconsider.

Real Talk: When to Trend, When to Tread

Trend-worthy Moments:

When It Amplifies Your Message:

If the trend echoes your brand’s core, amplify away.

Pickle-juggling during Earth Hour? Yes, please!

When It Sparks Joy:

Trends that make you grin like a pickle-loving maniac? Share the joy.

Trend Caution Zones:

When It Feels Forced:

If pickle-juggling feels like a circus act at a funeral, abort mission.

When It Clashes:

If the trend clashes with your brand’s essence, wave it goodbye.

Conclusion

Remember, trends are like pickles—some are sweet, some are spicy, and some are just plain

weird. Choose wisely. Stick to your brand’s recipe. And if the trend doesn’t fit, pickle-juggle your

way to authenticity.

Stay true, my fellow brand warriors!