Marketing lessons from Trump’s 2024 campaign

In a highly polarized political environment, Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential campaign displayed marketing techniques that Egyptian brands can adapt to stand out in a competitive market. His campaign’s approach wasn’t just about winning votes; it was a well-crafted lesson in digital engagement, bold branding, and connecting with new demographics. Let’s break down a few key tactics from Trump’s marketing playbook that could inspire Egyptian marketers.

Trump leveraged X (formerly Twitter) under Elon Musk’s ownership to connect directly with his audience, bypassing traditional media. By posting unfiltered and often controversial content, he kept his core base energized and engaged. For brands in Egypt, this underscores the power of authenticity on social platforms—when you speak directly and genuinely, audiences tend to listen. Though controversial topics aren’t necessary, taking a bold stand or using a more human, conversational tone can foster a stronger connection with followers.

One of the most unexpected moves in Trump’s campaign was his use of Twitch, a platform popular with younger audiences. Although Twitch is generally associated with gaming, Trump used it to livestream rallies and speeches, reaching viewers who don’t follow conventional news. Egyptian marketers can learn from this by exploring emerging digital spaces that go beyond typical social platforms. For example, using streaming platforms or newer social media apps to host live product launches, Q&As, or interactive sessions can create a memorable brand presence with tech-savvy and younger audiences.

Trump’s partnerships with social media influencers, such as Logan Paul, allowed him to reach young voters who may not usually engage with political content. These collaborations brought fresh energy to his campaign by tapping into peer influence and popular online communities. For Egyptian marketers, working with local influencers or content creators who align with brand values can extend reach to new audiences. Even collaborations with micro-influencers—those with smaller but highly engaged followers—can effectively boost brand visibility and trust.

Another unique tactic was Trump’s three-hour appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience, giving him ample time to discuss his views in an unstructured format. For Egyptian brands, engaging in long-form content, whether through podcasts, YouTube interviews, or detailed blog posts, can be a powerful way to showcase authenticity and build a deeper connection with audiences. Long-form content allows for storytelling, where brands can highlight their journey, values, and vision in a way that’s often more engaging than standard ads.

One of Trump’s standout strategies was his targeted messaging to specific communities, such as Michigan’s Muslim community. His campaign focused on issues relevant to this group, which helped him resonate with audiences who might not traditionally support him. Egyptian brands can take a page from this approach by customizing campaigns for different segments of their customer base, addressing the unique interests and concerns of each group. Personalized marketing can make audiences feel seen and valued, boosting loyalty and customer engagement.

Trump’s campaign was a master class in non-traditional marketing, showing that connecting with audiences requires boldness, a deep understanding of digital trends, and a willingness to try new tactics. Egyptian brands can apply these principles by being open to innovation, using data to understand their audiences better, and creating content that resonates across platforms. In today’s fast-paced world, the ability to stay flexible and think outside the box can be what truly sets a brand apart.