Squid Game Season 2 has hit Netflix, we’re already finished and contemplating watching everything from the start! Here’s a tongue-in-cheek look at how the chaos of this sensational Netflix series draws parallels with the world of marketing. And rest assured, there are no spoilers in this article. We’re good people, but avoid #SquidGame2 on Reddit or you will certainly find some!
#1 The Power of the Hook
Remember the first episode of Squid Game? Ordinary people thrown into a high-stakes death match. Bam! Intrigue! Your marketing campaign needs that same level of hook. You’re not throwing customers into a literal death match (we hope), but your headline, tagline, or opening ad scene should be bold, intriguing, and leave people begging for more.
#2 Simplicity Wins
Green light. Red light. That’s it. The concept is eerily simple but terrifyingly effective. Similarly, the best marketing campaigns aren’t convoluted. Think “Just Do It” or “Got Milk?” Easy to remember. Impossible to ignore. Remember this when writing your CTA (Call to Action). Are you saying stop, go, or confusing people with a ton of waffle?
#3 Know Your Audience. Like, Really Know Them
The Squid Game organisers knew their “customers” inside out. Crippling debt? Check. Desperation? Double check. They didn’t sell a game; they sold hope wrapped in neon lights and existential dread. When marketing your product, dig deep into your audience’s psyche. What keeps them awake at night? What’s their “I’ll do anything for this”? Understanding what makes your audience tick is the beginning of a great content marketing strategy. You can chat to Contentworks about your 2025 strategy here.
#4 Leverage FOMO Like a Pro
Remember that golden lit piggy bank that dangles potential prize money over their heads, even as the contestants sleep? They won’t leave the game when they know they might miss out on all that shiny money. The fear of missing out on a life-changing win pulled them in. Marketing thrives on that principle too. Limited time offers, exclusive deals, or a countdown timer can create that same tension. Make customers feel like they’ll regret not acting now. And remember to take away the offer when it expires. Next time they’ll act faster. Cue evil marketing plan laughter. A little well-placed scarcity is marketing gold. Just don’t overdo it, or you’ll look desperate.
#5 The Devil’s in the Details
The Squid Game set design was a fever dream of bright colours and childhood nostalgia that masks sheer horror. Your campaign needs that level of attention to detail. Think visuals, tone, and brand consistency. Everything should scream you while subtly leading your audience to the CTA. We’re not suggesting you terrify your customers into submission. But we are saying that the customer journey should be on-brand and consistent.
#6 Surprise and Delight… or Shock and Awe
No one saw that betrayal in season 1 coming did they. Or the many other gut-wrenching twists and turns of both seasons. Squid Game thrives on jaw-dropping surprises. Your marketing doesn’t need to be as deadly, but a well-placed twist can keep your audience engaged. Whether it’s a surprise discount, an Easter egg in your content, or unexpected campaign pivot, keep your audience guessing and coming back for more. The same goes for adding fresh content on your website and social media channels. Letting things get stale is a sure-fire way to lose engagement.
#7 Don’t Forget the Human Element
At its core, Squid Game is about human struggle, connection, and choices. It’s about connecting with the characters, whether you like them or not. No matter how polished your marketing campaign is, it needs that connection. Authenticity, storytelling, and relatability make your brand more than just a product. They make it human. If your marketing doesn’t make someone feel something, it’s just noise. Utilise UGC (user generated content), employee advocacy and thought leadership to build an authentic connection with your audience. Not sure where to start? Book a free Zoom call with our team.
Are You the Player or the Organiser?
In Squid Game, you’re either the one scrambling to survive or the one orchestrating the game. In marketing, you should aim to be the organiser. In control and always a step ahead. So, grab your green tracksuit (metaphorically speaking), dive into the game, and leave your audience gasping for breath.
* Disclaimer: To our knowledge, no clients have been harmed by our marketing.