Last Sunday, HBO aired the season premiere of the hit series Game of Thrones to serious fanfare. While fans were watching, brands joined the social conversation. According to Twitter analytic platform, Topsy, Game of Thrones amassed over 200,000 mentions on Twitter (40,000 of which used the hashtag #GoT) on premiere day. Uproxx noted some winners, and losers, in the game of Game of Thrones marketing, and it’s worth a look.
Of course, Game of Thrones isn’t the only raved about TV series that brands are talking about. Here are some of our favorites from the recent past.
Clorox on Games of Thrones
A mind needs books just like a toilet needs Clorox. pic.twitter.com/SOkw3t0QIb
— Clorox (@Clorox) April 13, 2015
While some brands were a little heavy-handed on the “throne” jokes, this one seemed just right.
Kia on Doctor Who
Okay it's no Tardis but it is surprisingly roomy inside http://t.co/qZLuHtWCGs pic.twitter.com/tazWkIih2w
— Kia UK (@KiaUK) August 22, 2014
Perfect for the nerd in all of us.
Where is everyone…? Thanks, #HouseOfCards. pic.twitter.com/avpz1wSYat
— Arby's (@Arbys) February 27, 2015
A dash of self-deprecating humor can be good on occasion.
Domino’s on Mad Men
In honor of #MadMen Premiere, we’re ditching the net. If you want pizza, you have to call us. #FeelingAnalog pic.twitter.com/2i6PSEJoJ9
— Domino's Pizza (@dominos) April 14, 2014
Domino’s followed this up with a tweet saying “JK you can still order online,” just in case you were confused.
Miller Lite on Better Call Saul
Gonna stash these in the fridge for later. #BetterCallSaul #ItsMillerTime pic.twitter.com/SbcqnQyllf
— Miller Lite (@MillerLite) February 8, 2015
Miller Lite’s twist on the safe scene made for a subtle joke that didn’t spoil the show for anyone not watching.
So what makes for good real-time marketing on Twitter? If you want to avoid getting panned, don’t take the easy route. Lazy concepts will easily draw the ire of fans, but original and inventive concepts are sure to be celebrated.