Guerilla Marketing

Shock therapy for your brand’s awareness problem.

Guerilla marketing is an unconventional and often low-cost marketing strategy designed to grab attention and make a bold statement - usually in unexpected places. Think flash mobs (so 2016 tho), graffiti (the legal kind), pop-up stunts, or mysterious / catchy billboards that make you stop and go, “Wait… what was that?” 😮

The goal? To create something so surprising or unique that people can’t help but share it - online and offline. It’s not about polished perfection, it’s about making an impression that sticks (like gum under your shoe… but more memorable).

What is guerrilla marketing with examples?

Guerrilla marketing refers to creative tactics that break through the noise without breaking the bank. It's often used by startups or brands wanting to stand out in a saturated market. For example:

Coca-Cola's "Happiness Machines" placed in random spots that handed out free drinks and gifts.
The Blair Witch Project’s fake missing posters - before viral marketing was even a thing.
IKEA furnishing public buses or subway stations to show how their products work in everyday life.

It’s marketing that’s part performance, part prank, all impact.

Is guerilla marketing illegal?

No, not by default - but it can be if it involves trespassing, vandalism, or disturbing public order (looking at you, illegal graffiti campaigns). To keep it legal and cool:

Get permits where necessary
Don’t block traffic or disrupt safety
Avoid damage to public or private property

In short: surprise, don’t cause a scene. Unless that’s the point… but still, be careful.

What are the 5 basic rules of guerilla marketing?

Be original – don’t copy other stunts. Be memorable.
Use emotion – make people laugh, cry, or gasp.
Go where people are – streets, parks, events - meet them IRL.
Keep it simple – one clear message, no confusion.
Get it on camera – if it’s not shareable, did it even happen?

Why do brands love guerilla marketing so much?

Because it works. Guerilla marketing taps into:

Emotional triggers (surprise, curiosity, joy)
Word-of-mouth power
High ROI, especially for smaller budgets

It helps brands look brave, fun, and clever - all without spending like a Fortune 500 company.

What is the 5-5-5 marketing strategy?

This framework is more general, but it can apply here too:

5 marketing messages
5 target audiences
5 ways to distribute the message

It keeps campaigns balanced and multi-directional - something guerilla campaigns often need to spread organically.

Does Coca-Cola use guerilla marketing?

Coca-Cola has mastered the art of surprise marketing:

Their "Happiness Machine" campaign gave out sodas, flowers, and even pizza from vending machines.
They’ve also sponsored unexpected moments at events, like branded interactive experiences and pop-up hugs in return for free drinks.

It’s all about joy + brand = shareable moment. And yep, they have the video views to prove it.