5 Irregular Ways to Market Your Business (With Real-Life Examples!)

When it comes to marketing, thinking outside the box can set your business apart from the competition. Here are five unconventional strategies you can use to make a lasting impact, complete with real-life examples to inspire you:

1. Guerilla Marketing: Make a Bold Statement

Example: IKEA’s Street-Level Showrooms
IKEA took guerilla marketing to the streets by setting up living room displays in urban spaces, complete with their furniture and decor. Passersby could sit, relax, and experience IKEA’s products in a real-life setting. This unexpected tactic not only caught the attention of busy city dwellers but also encouraged social sharing, generating buzz far beyond the physical installations.

2. Create a Viral Social Media Challenge

Example: ALS Ice Bucket Challenge
The ALS Association’s Ice Bucket Challenge is a prime example of a social media challenge that went viral. Participants were encouraged to dump a bucket of ice water on their heads, share the video online, and nominate others to do the same, all while donating to ALS research. The campaign raised over $115 million and significantly increased awareness for the cause. You can adapt this approach by creating a fun, shareable challenge related to your product or service.

3. Leverage Micro-Influencers for Authentic Connections

Example: Daniel Wellington’s Influencer Strategy
The watch brand Daniel Wellington built its success by collaborating with micro-influencers on Instagram. Instead of focusing on celebrities, they partnered with influencers who had smaller, yet highly engaged, followings. These influencers posted photos wearing the watches, offering discount codes to their followers. This strategy drove significant sales and helped establish the brand in the crowded fashion market.

4. Host Pop-Up Events for Direct Engagement

Example: Glossier’s Pop-Up Shops
Beauty brand Glossier has gained a cult following through its carefully curated pop-up shops. These temporary stores offer a unique, immersive shopping experience where fans can try products, take photos in aesthetically pleasing environments, and meet fellow beauty enthusiasts. By creating a sense of exclusivity and excitement, Glossier turned each pop-up into a must-visit event, driving both online and offline sales.

5. Implement an Interactive AR Experience

Example: Sephora’s Virtual Artist App
Sephora revolutionized the way customers shop for makeup with their Virtual Artist app, which uses augmented reality (AR) to let users try on makeup virtually. Customers can see how different products look on their faces before making a purchase, enhancing the shopping experience and reducing the likelihood of returns. This innovative approach not only improved customer satisfaction but also set Sephora apart as a tech-savvy leader in the beauty industry.

🔥 Ready to elevate your marketing game? These irregular methods are designed to surprise and delight your audience, making your brand more memorable.