In a digital world filled with AI content, authenticity and personality are the only chance you have to stand out. AI has the power to cheapen the look of brands, sort of like a factory that can push out 100 products a minute instead of handmade, high-quality products at a slower rate.
Not using AI is now seen as a ‘flex’ . Here’s the brands that are making it happen:
Porsche :
The Porsche holiday ad, a hand-drawn traditional ad with a nostalgic and classic feel. They made a statement that no AI was used, to create a more authentic feel. If you check the comments, you’ll see how much praise they are receiving for using real animators.
Polaroid –
Polaroid released an ad campaign with billboards saying, “AI Can’t Generate Sand Between Your Toes.” The point of the campaign was to connect with people in a relational way in a world of phone fatigue. Connecting with consumers on a deeper level, shaming doom scrolling and promoting real life. A wake-up call.
Aerie –
This clothing brand has had amazing engagement since announcing that they won’t be using AI. People automatically view them as ‘real’. Authenticity is a great flex in the digital world. This ad also unintentionally pokes fun at the brands still using AI. They’re setting a standard that AI can be untrustworthy and fake.
The use of heavy AI in marketing can promote laziness, a non-personal approach, and distance you from consumers. Good marketing is strategic, personal, and storytelling-driven, which differentiates you from competitors.
Real people, authentic content & connection still remains the number one way to build trust on social media. AI can in fact be pushing your potential customers away. Cancel culture is harsh, don’t fall into the trap of relying on AI for everything.