5 Marketing Lessons from Squid Game
Ever watched a show that left you thinking, Wow, that’s dark… but also genius? That’s exactly how I felt after binge-watching Squid Game. While the gripping storyline kept me on the edge of my seat, I couldn’t help but notice how it offers some incredible lessons for us marketers. Let’s dive into the five marketing takeaways I learned from this global phenomenon.
1. Hook Your Audience from the Start
Think about the first episode of Squid Game. It starts with a game that’s innocent and nostalgic, only to take a shocking turn that leaves you breathless. That initial twist is what hooks viewers and keeps them coming back for more.
Marketing Takeaway:
- Grab attention immediately. Whether it’s an ad, email subject line, or social media post, the first impression is everything.
- Use an unexpected angle or a compelling story to pique curiosity.
- Remember, the goal is to make your audience want to know more.
2. Simplicity Sells
The games in Squid Game are incredibly simple—Red Light, Green Light; Tug of War; Marbles. The simplicity makes them universally relatable, breaking cultural and language barriers.
Marketing Takeaway:
- Keep your messaging simple and clear. Avoid jargon or overly complex ideas.
- Focus on universal emotions and desires—fun, safety, connection, or curiosity.
- Sometimes, less is more. A clean, straightforward campaign can outperform a cluttered one.
3. Build a Community
One of the reasons Squid Game became such a phenomenon is the way it sparked conversations worldwide. Everyone was talking about it—on social media, at the office, even in memes. It created a shared experience that people had to discuss.
Marketing Takeaway:
- Engage your audience beyond the sale. Create shareable content, run polls, or host challenges that invite participation.
- Build a community where your audience feels connected, not just to your brand but to each other.
- When people start talking about your brand, your reach grows exponentially.
4. Know Your Target Audience
Squid Game didn’t shy away from exploring heavy themes like debt, inequality, and survival. These themes resonated deeply with a global audience because they tapped into real-life struggles that many people face.
Marketing Takeaway:
- Understand your audience’s pain points. Research their challenges, desires, and motivations.
- Show empathy and position your product or service as a solution to their problems.
- People connect with brands that “get” them, so take the time to truly understand who you’re talking to.
5. Create Anticipation
Each episode of Squid Game ended with a cliffhanger. The suspense made it impossible to stop watching. Netflix knew exactly how to keep us hooked.
Marketing Takeaway:
- Use anticipation to your advantage. Tease upcoming product launches or exclusive deals.
- Share “behind-the-scenes” glimpses to build excitement.
- Create a sense of urgency—FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) works wonders in marketing.
5. Create Anticipation
Each episode of Squid Game ended with a cliffhanger. The suspense made it impossible to stop watching. Netflix knew exactly how to keep us hooked.
Marketing Takeaway:
- Use anticipation to your advantage. Tease upcoming product launches or exclusive deals.
- Share “behind-the-scenes” glimpses to build excitement.
- Create a sense of urgency—FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) works wonders in marketing.
Squid Game isn’t just a thrilling watch; it’s a masterclass in storytelling and audience engagement. By applying these lessons—hooking your audience, keeping things simple, building a community, knowing your target, and creating anticipation—you can take your marketing game to the next level.
So, what are you waiting for? Start your marketing strategy with a Squid Game twist and watch your audience stay hooked till the very end.
What’s your favorite marketing lesson from Squid Game? Let me know in the comments below! 😊
Doktorand i Informationsteknologi|EUSwedishCARD|Mechanical Engineer|2yrsProjectManagerExperience|Recruiter|Certified110DigitalCourses|AnimalActivist|BusinessD management|Honored ERASMUS Scholarships|SAPTechnologies🧿🇸🇪
4dI agree :))