Meme marketing: How brands are using humour to go viral

Memes have become a powerful tool in digital marketing, allowing brands to connect with audiences in a fun, relatable way.

Memes have become a powerful tool in digital marketing, allowing brands to connect with audiences in a fun, relatable way.

By tapping into internet culture, brands can boost engagement, increase visibility, and even go viral. While humour can be an effective strategy, it also requires careful execution to align with brand values and avoid backlash.

Short, clever, and easy to share, memes are a hit on social platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok. Brands that know how to use memes in their marketing strategies understand their audience’s sense of humour and stay ahead of the curve.

For example, fast-food chains like Wendy’s and Aussie favourites like Vegemite are great at using memes to start conversations, boost engagement, and show off their brand personality.

But meme marketing isn’t just about being funny—it’s about being relevant. A meme that hits at the right moment can generate huge interest, but if it’s outdated or feels forced, it can backfire.

Brands need to make sure their humour aligns with their values and connects with their audience. Getting the tone of a trending meme wrong or cracking an insensitive joke can quickly lead to unwanted attention.

Read also: Why short-form videos are transforming brand strategies

Moreover, authenticity is key. Consumers can easily spot a brand trying too hard to be “cool,” which can make content feel inauthentic. Instead of forcing memes into a strategy, brands should engage naturally, understand online conversations, and create content that fits their voice.

One of the great things about meme marketing is how cost-effective it is. Unlike traditional ads, memes don’t need a huge budget to make a big impact. A witty caption or timely joke on a trending image can spark massive engagement without spending a cent on ads.

This makes it a perfect strategy for brands wanting to boost their reach without breaking the bank. When done right, meme marketing not only raises awareness but also creates a sense of community, getting people to engage, share, and even put their own twist on branded content.

Memes offer brands a fun, yet effective, way to connect with an audience. By staying current, understanding cultural trends, and using humour thoughtfully, brands can turn memes into valuable marketing tools—without losing credibility.

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