December 1, 2023

Tickle Your Audience's Funny Bone: Dos and Don'ts of Humor

In the hustle and bustle of the marketing game, there's a secret weapon that turns regular words into gold—something anyone can tap into. Imagine not just telling your story but having your audience in stitches, creating a bond that goes beyond buying and selling.

Today, we're breaking it down, and exploring how to inject humor into your writing. Picture this: your message is not just heard but making people laugh, building a connection so strong they can't help but become fans. So, let's dive into the world where humor meets business success.

Welcome to the journey where laughter isn't just good for the soul; it's a ticket to a richer connection with your audience. Get ready to crack the code and see your brand cash in. In this blog post, we'll explore the dos and don'ts of using humor in copywriting to ensure that your brand message hits the right note and leaves a lasting impression.

Dos

Know Your Audience

Before incorporating humor into your copy, it's crucial to understand your target audience's preferences, values, and sense of humor. Tailor your jokes and wit to resonate with them, creating a connection that goes beyond the product or service.

Example: If you're targeting a tech-savvy audience, incorporate humor related to the latest gadgets or online trends. For instance, "Our new product is so fast, even your Wi-Fi will be impressed!

Be Relevant

Humor should complement your message, not distract from it. Make sure that your jokes are relevant to your brand, product, or the overall theme of your campaign. This ensures that the humor serves a purpose and enhances your brand image, while also captivating potential customers.

Example: If you're advertising a fitness product, use humor that ties into the health and wellness theme. "Our protein bars are so good; even your treadmill is doing extra laps to get to them! #SnackGoals

Keep it Light

Opt for light-hearted humor that is inclusive and unlikely to offend. Avoid controversial topics or anything that might alienate a portion of your audience. Positive humor creates a welcoming atmosphere and encourages a favorable perception of your brand.

Example: Choose positive and uplifting humor that brings a smile without causing offense. "Why did the coffee file a police report? It got mugged every morning! Start your day with a grin and a cup of our energizing brew.

Inject Personality

Humor is an excellent way to showcase your brand's personality. Whether it's through clever wordplay, witty remarks, or a playful tone, infuse your copy with elements that reflect your brand's unique character.

Example: Let your brand's personality shine through with playful language. "Our customer service team is like a cup of hot cocoa on a winter day—warm, comforting, and ready to solve all your problems with a sprinkle of sweetness!

Use Visuals

Visual elements can enhance the impact of your humor. Incorporate funny images, GIFs, or videos that align with your message. Visual humor can be more memorable and shareable, amplifying the reach of your campaign.

Example: Accompany your copy with a funny and relatable GIF. For a fitness brand, a GIF of an enthusiastic puppy doing jumping jacks could convey the energy and playfulness of your product.

Don'ts

Avoid Offensiveness

Steer clear of humor that may be offensive, divisive, or inappropriate. What might be amusing to one person could be offensive to another. Aim for inclusivity and ensure that your humor doesn't inadvertently alienate any part of your audience.

Don't Force It

Humor should feel natural and effortless, not forced. If a joke or pun doesn't seamlessly fit into your copy, it's better to leave it out. Forced humor can come across as insincere and may dilute your brand message.

Beware of Cultural Sensitivities

Be mindful of cultural differences and sensitivities. What is humorous in one culture may not translate well to another. Before using cultural references, ensure that they are universally understood and won't be misinterpreted.

Steer Clear of Tired Tropes

Avoid overused jokes or clichés that have lost their freshness. Your audience is likely to appreciate original and creative humor that sets your brand apart from the competition.

Don't Sacrifice Clarity

While humor is valuable, clarity should remain the top priority. Don't sacrifice the clarity of your message for the sake of a joke. Ensure that your audience can easily grasp the main points and calls to action in your copy.

Laughing all the Way to the Bank

Humor can be a potent weapon in your copywriting arsenal when used judiciously. By understanding your audience, staying relevant, and maintaining a light-hearted yet respectful tone, you can create copy that not only entertains but also effectively communicates your brand's message. Contact TMG Global today to connect with copywriters who’ll make sure that laughter leads your audience to a deeper connection with your brand.

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