Is Your Brand Trying Too Hard? When Slang Becomes Cringe

You’ve seen the posts. A brand discovers “slay,” “no cap,” or “it’s giving” and suddenly those phrases are in every caption.

Occasionally, it works. Other times, it feels like someone handed the marketing team a list of Gen X slang and said, “Make us relatable!” 😬

Speaking your audience’s language can help you connect. But what happens when they can tell you’re forcing it?

When ‘relatable’ becomes too rehearsed

THE BIG DOSE

Using your audience’s favorite phrases doesn’t mean you actually understand them. And when slang feels forced, your brand can come across as trying too hard.

Humor and trends have a place in your marketing, but they should fit your brand voice and serve your message.

Before your next “it’s giving” leaves the drafts, ask:

• Would we actually say this? If it feels awkward out loud, rethink it.
• Are we saying anything useful? Give people a reason to care beyond the trendy phrase.
• Does this fit our audience? Listen to your actual customers instead of leaning on generational stereotypes.

You don’t have to sound like your customers’ group chat to connect. Show them you understand what matters to them.