In the fast-paced world of corporate competition, where trends can go viral faster than a cat video, agility has become the ultimate battleground. And what better way to showcase agility than to be the first to hop on the latest social media trend, even if it’s not your own idea? Welcome to the world of corporate copycats, where imitation is not just a matter of innovation and agility; it’s also a strategic PR and communication move. By quickly adopting popular trends and leveraging social media, corporates can generate significant buzz and increase brand visibility.
Corporates desperately chase fleeting internet trends, mimicking viral crazes like the “Do a Silly Dance” challenge, where even CEOs awkwardly participated. This pursuit of viral fame extends to unrealistic stunts, such as the recent Diwali ads showcasing product delivery in space, prioritizing fleeting online attention over practical considerations.
But it’s not just about jumping on existing trends. Corporates are also becoming increasingly adept at preempting them. Well, let’s just say certain mega-corporates had been quietly testing it in their secret underground bunkers for months. And then, the copycats pounce. Each offering a slightly altered version, desperately hoping you won’t notice it’s…familiar.
So, why do corporates engage in such blatant copycatting? Well, for one, it’s a low-risk, high-reward strategy. If a trend is already popular, there’s a good chance it will continue to be so, and jumping on board can help a brand increase its visibility and engagement. Additionally, it can be a way to demonstrate innovation and agility, even if the innovation is borrowed.
However, there’s a downside to this approach. While copycatting can help a brand stay relevant in the short term, it can also erode its credibility and originality. Consumers are becoming increasingly savvy, and they can spot a fake from a mile away. In the long run, a corporate that is constantly chasing trends and copying others may struggle to establish a strong brand identity and build lasting customer loyalty.
So, what’s the solution? While these short-term strategies can be effective, relying solely on copycatting can lead to a lack of originality and a weakened brand identity. To build long-term success, corporates should focus on developing their own unique value proposition and investing in sustainable PR and communication strategies. For corporates looking to stay ahead of the curve without resorting to copycatting, the key is to focus on innovation and authenticity. This means investing in research and development, developing original ideas, and building a strong brand story. While it may take more time and effort, the rewards can be far greater in the long run.
