# Unveiling the 12 Brand Archetypes: Discover Yours Today
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Understanding Brand Archetypes
"Personality is an unbroken series of successful gestures." — F. Scott Fitzgerald
Who hasn’t secretly wanted to take an online quiz that reveals their true identity? A few questionable questions later, and voilà, you have a neat label for yourself. For example, I recently discovered I have the persona of a mountain goat (pun intended).
But here’s the kicker: just like individuals, strong brands also possess distinct personalities, known as "archetypes." Regardless of whether you're a startup or an established corporation, understanding your brand archetype is crucial.
So, how can you find out which archetype represents your brand? First, let’s clarify what brand archetypes are.
Defining Brand Archetypes
A quick online search yields two interpretations of "archetype":
- A quintessential example of a specific person or thing.
- In Jungian psychology, a fundamental mental image inherited from early human ancestors, believed to reside in our collective unconscious.
Both definitions hold merit, but the second is particularly relevant to branding. Carl Jung theorized that certain personas resonate universally, each encompassing a unique array of traits. We’ll be outlining twelve of these archetypes shortly.
Brand archetypes are not exclusive or isolated; they are simply the application of these foundational concepts from psychology and the arts to the branding arena.
The Significance of Brand Archetypes
The enduring presence of these archetypes across cultures and epochs underscores their profound impact. Each archetype carries a rich tapestry of associations that, when leveraged skillfully, can position a brand meaningfully in the marketplace.
In essence, archetypes serve as frameworks that marketers can use to shape a brand's identity, motivations, and consistency, fostering connections with consumers and ultimately boosting profitability.
CAUTION
Once you grasp the concept of brand archetypes, you may find it impossible to look at brands without categorizing them. If you’re not ready for that, it might be best to step away now.
The 12 Brand Archetypes
Now, let’s delve into the twelve primary archetypes that characterize brands globally, along with well-known examples that embody them.
The Caregiver
This archetype is all about altruism. Imagine a world where individuals nurture one another, fostering community through service and care. Caregiver brands aim to enhance lives through safety, self-love, and empowerment.
Examples: Habitat for Humanity, Procter & Gamble, Volvo.
The Citizen (or Everyman)
The Citizen archetype stands for equity and integrity, advocating for collective efforts towards common goals. Brands that embody this archetype emphasize positivity, respect, and inclusion.
Examples: Home Depot, eBay, Discover.
The Creator
The Creator thrives on passion, innovation, and expression to improve the world. Known for their originality and flair, Creator brands attract those who appreciate creativity and inspiration.
Examples: Crayola, Adobe, Lego.
The Explorer
Always in search of new experiences, the Explorer archetype embodies ambition and independence. Customers resonating with this archetype often seek brands that share their zest for life.
Examples: Jeep, Red Bull, National Geographic.
The Hero
The Hero archetype symbolizes resilience and transformation. Brands that identify with this archetype connect with customers on a journey of self-improvement and overcoming challenges.
Examples: The Red Cross, Nike, FedEx.
The Innocent
Innocent brands are characterized by purity and an unwavering belief in goodness. They exude transparency and sincerity, appealing to those who value reliability.
Examples: Dove, Whole Foods, Coca-Cola.
The Jester
The Jester archetype brings joy and humor, often challenging societal norms through entertainment. Jester brands resonate with customers who appreciate fun and lightheartedness.
Examples: Geico, M&Ms, Dollar Shave Club.
The Lover
Embodiments of passion and devotion, Lover brands focus on creating emotional connections with their customers, often emphasizing luxury and romance.
Examples: Victoria's Secret, Haagen Dazs, Gucci.
The Magician
The Magician archetype invokes wonder and transformation, often surprising customers with innovative experiences. They help others see the world through a new lens.
Examples: Disney, Apple, Mary Kay.
The Rebel
The Rebel archetype thrives on challenging the status quo. Brands that identify with this persona connect with customers eager for change and disruption.
Examples: Harley Davidson, MTV, Virgin Mobile.
The Sage
Sage brands are seen as wise authorities in their fields, combining tradition with innovation. They attract customers who value knowledge and thoughtful discourse.
Examples: Discovery Channel, Google, TED.
The Sovereign (or Ruler)
Representing authority and prestige, the Sovereign archetype is associated with stability and high quality. Brands embodying this archetype appeal to customers who equate high price with exceptional quality.
Examples: Rolex, Louis Vuitton, Rolls Royce.
In summary, identifying your brand's archetype doesn't mean you must mirror your customers' traits exactly; instead, aim for a complementary relationship. Whether your target audience seeks stability, prestige, or a hint of magic, focusing on your brand archetype can help you shape your marketing strategies effectively.
For more insights, check out these resources:
The first video, "12 Brand Archetypes [With Examples] - YouTube," provides a detailed look at each archetype, showcasing real-world examples.
The second video, "Brand Archetypes [The Brand Personality Framework] - YouTube," delves into how these archetypes function as a framework for developing brand identity.
So, there you have it — the twelve unforgettable brand archetypes. Did you find this article helpful? If so, please share your thoughts and connect with me on Twitter → @NB_Branding 👋