Your brand is probably being ignored—here’s why.

Bending the Rules of Digital Marketing: How to Actually Stand Out

Ever feel like you’re yelling into the void every time you post on Instagram? You’re not alone. With feeds overflowing and ads everywhere, grabbing someone’s attention—and keeping it—is harder than ever. So, how do you break free from the noise and make real connections?

Forget the Old Funnel

Remember the marketing funnel? Yeah, Gen Z already broke that. According to Vogue Business, today’s consumers live in a loop of inspiration, exploration, community, and loyalty—no neat top-to-bottom funnel required. Gen Alpha’s next, and they’re even savvier: they sniff out inauthentic ads like bloodhounds. If your campaign feels “sales-y,” they’ll scroll right past.

Here's Some Ideas

So, what works? Experiences. Not just cool graphics or trending audio—actual, human moments. Take Rhode’s photo booth: instead of a bland line, they handed out cinnamon buns to folks waiting. Suddenly, a wait became an event in itself. That’s the kind of twist that sticks in people’s minds.

Keep Social… Social

Digital isn’t dead—it just needs a makeover. Trends alone won’t cut it. You’ve got to offer value, personality, a reason for someone to care. Look at Liquid Death: they slapped beer-style labels on water cans and dropped them in bizarre spots (grandmas guzzling “beer,” anyone?). The stunt was weird, funny, shareable—and it made folks talk.

Think Beyond TikTok

Sure, TikTok and Instagram rule, but have you ever tried Snapchat streaks or Roblox activations? Imagine hiding a branded avatar in Roblox: find it, win merch. Or run a “Dress to Impress” challenge on Instagram—cross-platform fun, zero ad fatigue.

Snapchat Secrets

Gen Z loves streaks—those little fire emojis fuel daily habits. What if your brand could tap into that? A daily snap challenge, exclusive filters, or instant rewards for sharing your content? It’s about weaving your brand into the day-to-day, not interrupting it.

How Can You Bend the Rules?

1. Ask “Who cares?” If the answer’s Is rooted In your opinion scrap it.

2. Add genuine value. Give people something they’d actually enjoy, not another promo.

3. Turn the mundane into magic. Waiting in line? Make it tasty. Scrolling? Make it laugh.

4. Explore the “weird” platforms. If everyone’s on Instagram, go where they least expect you.

5. Be real. Ditch the corporate jargon and talk like a human.

   
   

So what are we saying...

Digital marketing is about curating tangible experiences. Stop pitching products and start creating movements. Because when you focus on experiences that people actually want to be part of, you’ll start earning attention.