Why You Should Hire a Company Mascot

You don’t have to feed him or administer him a background check or drug test. He shows up to work on time and doesn’t need to get paid. And he’s very good at what he does.

Why wouldn’t you hire a mascot?

Brand mascots leverage your company’s personality. And if you can train them about your company and its objectives, mascots can sell your products. Let’s look at the top reasons for having a mascot in your marketing strategy.

You want to make sense

People just don’t get that excited about insurance policies. Mostly, they’re confused by them and avoid shopping for insurance unless it’s necessary. Companies within these “boring” industries adapted to this reality by adopting cute characters to front their businesses. And they’ve had remarkable success.

Take for example, the Aflac Duck. http://www.dailyfinance.com/photos/top-25-mascots-of-all-time/ Entertaining and memorable; he explains claims, simplifies policies and makes jokes. Consumers love him because he makes complicated things seem simple. It’s no wonder he’s become a household name.

Remarkably, mascots are capable of overturning consumer prejudices. Not only do people think about Aflac when the time to shop for insurance rolls around - they’re getting quotes and comparing rates even when they don’t have to shop for insurance.

You want to be accessible

Not only can mascots succeed digitally and show up in all corners of the globe- mascots can earn your business access in real time. Allow your mascot to make public appearances at events and conferences and you’ll make emotional connections with your target audiences. They’re better than most of us at tapping into humor and affection with ease. Plus, who doesn’t want to pose for photographs with a mascot?

Mascots are accessible

Mascots are older than advertising itself. They are no longer limited to the sidelines, among the fans and cheerleaders, watching the main event. Brand mascots have the potential to take the stage and bring the spotlight to your company.

That being said, you don’t have to find a Tony the Tiger. Choose a character that stands for something you believe in. RAMS financial experts http://www.rams.com.au/ raised their ram with "old-fashioned Aussie values of hard work and a strong sense of making his parents (Dolly & Reginald) proud." The company even has a clever story about this Raymond and how he embodies their mission to serve the community.

Another example is the Pillsbury Doughboy from 1965.
He’s less realistic, but interestingly, his his simple white shape and catchy giggle made him a star.

Any company, large or small can adopt a mascot. To be fair, not everyone is going to love your mascot. If he is not well received, you’re going to have to retire him. Before you introduce him, make sure that he’s consistent with your image and is meant to serve your company’s specific purposes.