I recently watched a new Netflix documentary series about disciplinary schools and the damage they can do to vulnerable children and their parents. It was so sad to see the lifelong fissures in families caused by trauma associated with these institutions. (If you haven’t yet watched “The Program”, I highly recommend it.)
I guess because Mother’s Day is coming up and because I was watching the doc with one of my own children, it got me thinking about the complexity that occurs in families, especially between parents and their children. In my own case, I am the product of an abusive father who died when I was very young, so Father’s Day is fraught with unpleasant emotions.
My mother passed away a few years ago, and while I love spending Mother’s Day with my own girls, I am inevitably reminded of my loss — and of the sometimes-difficult mother-daughter relationship we had when she was alive.
As Mother's Day and Father's Day approach, it's time for your business to tap into your empathy and approach marketing initiatives with sensitivity and thoughtfulness. While these occasions are ripe opportunities for content and marketing campaigns, the sad truth is that not all experiences with motherhood and fatherhood are alike. Consider how your business can show understanding in your marketing strategies for these special days.
Understand diverse experiences
Mother's Day or Father's Day can evoke a variety of emotions for individuals. For some, these are days of celebration, filled with joy and gratitude. For others, it can be a reminder of loss, strained relationships, or unfulfilled desires. Recognizing this diversity of experiences is the first step in crafting inclusive marketing initiatives.
Acknowledge different family structures
Gone are the days of the traditional nuclear family being the norm. Today, families come in all shapes and sizes, including single-parent households, same-sex parents, blended families, chosen families and more. When developing marketing content, it's essential to represent and celebrate this diversity. By doing so, businesses demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and resonate with a broader audience.
Focus on emotions, not transactions
While promotions are undoubtedly appealing, the heart of Mother's Day and Father's Day lies in emotions. These occasions are opportunities to express love, appreciation, and gratitude. Businesses can create engaging marketing campaigns by tapping into these sentiments. Whether through heartfelt stories, nostalgic imagery, or touching testimonials, the goal is to evoke emotions that forge connections with customers.
Offer meaningful experiences
Instead of solely promoting yourself, consider offering experiences that foster meaningful connections. This could involve a thoughtful pop-by or hosting a virtual event, such as a cooking class, DIY workshop, or storytelling session, where families can participate together. Bring in your own parents and children to share in the fun. By providing opportunities for shared experiences, your business becomes more than just a transactional entity; it becomes a facilitator of cherished memories.
Support causes that matter
Mother's Day and Father's Day are occasions to give back to the community and support causes that are close to the heart. Consider partnering with organizations that focus on issues such as maternal health, parental leave policies, or children's welfare. By aligning marketing efforts with meaningful causes, you can demonstrate your commitment to social responsibility while engaging customers in purpose-driven initiatives.
Personalize communication
In today's digital age, personalization is key to effective marketing. Use customer data to tailor communication based on individual preferences and past interactions. Address customers by name, recommend services based on their engagement history, and send personalized messages that resonate on a deeper level.
If your website or email platform has the capability, consider allowing people to opt out of marketing for these holidays. I have already had some companies reach out to with this option and was delighted with the opportunity it provided.
By making customers feel seen and valued, your business can strengthen brand loyalty and foster long-term relationships.
As we gear up for Mother's Day and Father's Day, let's remember that empathy and sensitivity should guide our marketing efforts. Let's make this year's celebrations not just about transactions, but about genuine connections and heartfelt moments that last a lifetime.
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