116: Marketing Strategies from Big Brands You Know and Love
If you have an online business, then guess what, you are officially a marketer! And it’s time to start looking at your business and the world around you through that lens. In this episode, Heather breaks down what some of the biggest brands are doing right when it comes to their marketing strategies, and how you can bring those same ideas into your own business. From building anticipation to creating a memorable experience and showing off your unique personality, you’ll learn the marketing principles that can transform the way you connect with your audience. Plus, you’ll walk away with action steps to help you start applying these ideas today!
Key Takeaways:
- (02:20) How to start seeing marketing all around you
- (03:10) Dunkin’ Donuts and the power of consistency
- (08:00) Taylor Swift and building anticipation for your offers
- (14:10) Olive and June; educating your audience for better results
- (17:15) Disney; selling experiences, not just products
- (19:45) Apple; marketing transformation, not features
- (21:55) Trader Joe’s personality-driven approach to engagement
- (25:05) How to apply these lessons in your own business
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From Dunkin to Disney: Simple Marketing Moves to Transform Your Teacher Biz
If you’re building an online business in the education space, chances are you didn’t originally see yourself as a “marketer.” Yet, marketing is now a central part of your entrepreneurial journey—whether you realize it or not.
The good news? The world is bursting with real-life marketing examples you can borrow and adapt, no matter how big (or small) your business.
Let’s dig into how iconic brands like Dunkin’, Apple, Taylor Swift, Disney, Olive & June, and Trader Joe’s can inspire your teacher biz.
The Power of Consistency: Lessons from Dunkin’
Think of Dunkin’ Donuts—can you picture those bold orange and pink stripes from a mile away? Consistency and familiarity are at the heart of Dunkin’s enduring success. Heather recalls how easily she could spot a Dunkin’ location in an unfamiliar town, simply by its iconic branding. Dunkin’s strategy hasn’t been to constantly reinvent their identity but to double down on making their look, feel, and experience so recognizable that customers feel at home every visit.
Takeaway:
Practice consistency in your branding. You don’t need 15 fonts, a rainbow of colors, or flashy graphics. Stick to a handful of elements—your tone, your values, your color palette—and lean into them. Over time, your teacher biz can become just as memorable and recognizable as any local coffee shop.
Creating Anticipation: Taylor Swift’s Marketing Genius
Whether you’re a Swiftie or not, you can’t deny Taylor Swift’s ability to generate excitement before an album launch. She builds buzz through teasers, “Easter eggs,” countdowns, and multiple versions of her products—all before fans have even heard a new song. This strategy fills her audience with energy and urgency, leading to sold-out presales and a devoted following.
Takeaway:
Build excitement before your product drops. Don’t quietly launch your next resource and hope someone notices! Share sneak peeks, “coming soon” emails, and behind-the-scenes stories. Invite your audience into your process, even if your following is small. Just like Heather’s “day-before” email, create anticipation so buyers are eager when launch day arrives.
Educate to Empower: Olive & June’s Approach
Olive & June isn’t just selling nail polish—they’re teaching customers how to succeed at home manicures. Their how-to guides, tutorials, and patented tools remove barriers and help customers believe, “Yes, I really can do this!” For teacher biz owners, education is your superpower—use it to boost customer confidence.
Takeaway:
Don’t just sell—teach. Show your buyers how to get the absolute best result from your product, whether you offer printable activities, a membership, or an online course. Walk them through the transformation and make them feel capable and empowered.
Sell Experiences, Not Just Products: The Disney Way
Why do families cherish Disney World trips? Disney sells more than rides—they deliver magic, memories, and immersive experiences. Every interaction, from cast members’ hospitality to the scent of Main Street, is meticulously designed for joy.
Takeaway:
Make every customer experience special. What feelings do you want your audience to walk away with? Ensure your emails are welcoming and fun, your checkouts run smoothly, and every touchpoint feels personal. Focus on the transformation and joy your biz delivers, not just the “stuff” they get.
Transformation Over Features: Apple’s Brilliant Simplicity
Ever notice how Apple doesn’t sell products by listing specs? Instead, they shine a spotlight on what users can do with their devices. Their message is clear: their tech transforms your life.
Takeaway:
Focus on outcomes, not lists. Instead of leading with “25 printable worksheets,” highlight the real-world benefit: “Help your preschooler master shapes in just ten minutes a day.” The transformation is what your audience will remember—and buy.
Stand Out Through Personality: Why Trader Joe’s Has Raving Fans
Trader Joe’s makes grocery shopping fun with quirky signs, friendly staff, and a distinct personality. Their in-store experience is memorable, unique, and authentically them.
Takeaway:
Infuse your business with your unique voice and stories. Write emails as if talking to a friend. Share your quirks, your humor, your journey. Your personality is your competitive edge.
Bring Brand Lessons Into Your Teacher Biz
Peek at the brands you already love. What keeps you coming back? Borrow those principles and apply them with your own twist.
Start with just one strategy—maybe consistency or anticipation—and intentionally integrate it over the next month.
Your teacher biz doesn’t have to be massive to make a real impact, but it will grow as you market like a pro.
Ready to take the next step? Grab Heather’s free Teacher Biz Starter Guide.