At CLM, we’re all about finding inspiration in the world around us – even in unexpected places. Admittedly, my cats were the last place I would have thought I’d find a connection to the marketing world. However, a recent thought experiment brought me to the firm conclusion that cats offer some surprisingly poignant lessons for anyone looking to hone their marketing approach.
If you’ve ever owned a cat, you know: they’re masters of getting what they want — all while making it seem like it was your idea in the first place. Here are just a few teachings they offer us about building smarter campaigns:
1. Subtlety Wins
Cats are not like dogs. They don’t bark for attention — they sit, they wait, and they let curiosity do the work. In marketing, subtlety can be just as powerful, instead of shouting messages, craft campaigns that draw people in. Build intrigue. Let your audience feel like they discovered you on their own. Natural curiosity is far more powerful than forced messaging. Never has this been truer than in the shift to social marketing, where messaging is more organic in nature.
2. Timing Is Everything
Cats have a knack for perfect timing — like jumping into your lap just as you’re about to visit the restroom or grab a snack. Great marketing works the same way. Well-timed campaigns (whether seasonal pushes or reactive moments to cultural trends) land better and feel more relevant. Pay attention to timing, and your message will hit the mark.
3. Know Your Audience (and Let Them Come to You)
Cats are great at reading people. They know exactly who will give them attention and who to ignore. Smart marketing does the same — it understands its target audience deeply. With precise targeting and smart media placement, you’ll reach the people who actually want to engage with your brand, rather than wasting resources barking up the wrong tree.
4. Playfulness Has Power
Cats can go from regal to ridiculous in seconds. They keep things interesting, and so should your campaigns. Playful, creative touches in your messaging capture attention and spark positive emotions. Even in serious industries, a little light-hearted creativity can go a long way toward making your brand memorable.
5. Give Them Space
Cats know when to give you space — and when to claim the spotlight. Marketing should do the same. Avoid overwhelming your audience with constant noise. Allow breathing room in your campaigns. Give your audience space to think, respond, and connect naturally. Sometimes, less really is more.
Good marketing strategy balances persistence with patience, intrigue with clarity, and reach with relevance. At CLM, we believe that when you respect your audience’s space and intelligence, much like you need to do with a clever cat, they’ll come to you.
Looking for a marketing partner who knows when to pounce and when to pause? Let’s talk.
