I bet a lot of you have called the Nestle Crunch Hotline (800-295-0051) more likely for a laugh than because of a milk-chocolate-with-krispy rice-related question. What a great way to engage customers, and refresh their brand image as an engaging, lively company. It's also completely viral. I have received emails, tweets and FB postings with this phone number–and not just from chocolate lovers.
Other companies have used similar strategies to win loyalty and respect by adding a little humor to their brand. Google, Zappo's and Southwest come to mind. Nearly every company, whether consumer, SMB or enterprise focused, has room for a little creativity in their brand voice–it's an inexpensive way to get a little attention and have a little fun, something even marketers need now and then!
TRY IT:
Oh and for those of you who have never called, dial 800-295-0051. When asked to continue in English or Spanish, just wait about 10 seconds. Then, keep listening and choose option 4. Then listen to the options and press 7. Save this number for those times when you need a smile and nothing is working! Have fun!
