Anna Holmes defines 'hype aversion' as a reflex against being told what to like, suggesting that popularity can create pressure rather than signal quality. This feeling can lead to a deliberate choice to resist mainstream culture.
Advertisers seeking unfiltered feedback on their products or services, or looking for genuine brand advocates, can tap into Redditors' willingness to share authentic opinions while remaining open to differing perspectives. Yet this is where redditors often go against the trend.
Context as the subject The issue with selfies is that they demote the importance of context. You can be standing in front of the Great Wall of China but an arms-length framing makes you an artificial focal point. By contrast, if you turn the camera around, you're presenting your viewer with your perspective on the world around you. Taking care to turn a quick snap into an artful, composed observation shows your audience something important, without having to tell them so directly.
Running a social account is a delicate balance between risk and trust. "I think it's almost like a double-edged sword ... don't overthink it, but also learn the muscle of putting out risky content and knowing the limitations of how risky you can go," said Jori Evans, director of social at Manscaped. Evans gained experience from working with boutique brands before moving onto Microsoft, Groupon and with agencies for brands like Slim Jim. She will speak on a panel at Ragan's Social Media Conference next month to discuss what it really takes to manage a brand's social account behind the scenes.
