An article titled “What Real Mad Men and Women can Learn from the TV show was posted on Forbes.com, and it’s a good reminder that brands who are authentic are the ones that survive. With all the conflicting messages, cluttered internet ads and our need to have instant gratification, we can’t help but change our minds every minute and have the attention span of a gnat. And as communications professionals, we are going against the grain, trying to keep messages and visuals consistent. But it pays off in a big way.
Brands that are consistent, thrive. There’s a certain comfort in that Kraft macaroni and cheese box, because I know exactly how to fix it and what it’s going to taste like.
Although our green 1998 Toyota Camry has more than 100,000 miles on it, we know we still have a few more good years because Camry’s are good, safe and reliable cars.
When I shop at Ann Taylor, I know how the clothes will fit, and that the high quality and classic look will garner a prime spot in my closet for years to come.
And it’s not just about products. I know what to expect when I shop at Target, Dillons or Wal-Mart, and the experience varies greatly between each one. But each experience is an extension of the companies branding efforts.
And Mad Men, now in it’s third season, has lived up to their promise. I know what to expect every Sunday night: a quality show with suprising plot twists, accurate 1960s era fashion and props, and an hour long peek into the high profile advertising industry from 40 years ago.