A meme is a funny image, video, phrase or format that spreads online and gets copied and remixed along the way. Most memes follow a recognizable template, so people can swap in their own joke while keeping the structure everyone knows.
Brands use memes to look human, join conversations and earn shares. A meme that fits your audience's inside jokes can reach far more people than a polished ad, because followers pass it along to friends.
Timing and fit matter. Memes fade fast, so jump in while a format is still fresh, and only when it suits your brand voice. Avoid memes tied to sensitive topics.
Questions about Meme
Should brands use memes?
Memes can work well for brands with a casual, playful voice and an audience that enjoys internet culture. They feel relatable and are easy to share. More formal brands should use them sparingly so they don't feel forced or off-brand.
How do you make a meme for marketing?
Pick a popular, current format your audience recognizes. Add a joke that connects to a real experience your customers share, not a sales pitch. Keep the text short, match your brand voice and post quickly before the trend fades.
Are memes copyrighted?
The images in many memes can be copyrighted, often by photographers or studios. Casual personal sharing is common, but commercial use carries more risk. Brands are safer creating original images in a meme format or using properly licensed content.
