In an ever-expanding landscape of social media, the need for the diverse urban community to have its voice represented in branding opportunities of major companies is more urgent than ever before.
Egami Consulting Group and MS&L Group proved to be at the forefront of exploring this trend as they hosted the second installment of their Urban Influencer 360 Panel Series: Social Media at New York City’s Red Bull Space. Rolling out spoke with hip-hop legend and popular Twitter personality Rev. Run and Teneshia Jackson Warner, the chief creative officer of Egami Consulting Group, about the importance of representing the urban voice in branding for community empowerment, celebrities who don’t use Twitter for social change and why Rev. Run is careful about which brands he promotes. –souleo
What was the inspiration behind launching this panel series?
Teneshia Jackson Warner: We work with corporate brands and counsel them on connecting with diverse audiences. So, we need to be on the pulse of what’s important and have conversations with thought leaders. It’s a way for our firm to stay on the cusp of what’s happening next.
What do you hope that participants get out of this experience?
Teneshia Jackson Warner: I hope people place focus on marketing campaigns to target multicultural audiences. According to the census, by 2050, minorities may be the new majority. So, it’s not enough to think you will reach our communities with general marketing campaigns since there are certain nuances you need to speak to. It’s also important that community organizations walk away with insights on getting funding to roll out brand partnerships to support you in giving back to your community.
Do you wish that more influential people used their status to that effect?
Rev. Run: I don’t “wish” it. I just do it. That’s like saying, “Do I wish rap did more music like A Tribe Called Quest than Lil’ Wayne.” No, I don’t wish it was one way or another. I give out inspirational words, and it’s extremely popular, but I don’t come down on others for not making it a positive place.
There are celebrities who promote many brands on their social media platforms. Yet, you are extremely selective and, typically, partner with companies that give back to the community.
Rev. Run: That’s why I’m the most re-tweeted person. I am never promoting brands. It’s all words of wisdom, and I’m not promoting all day long. So, that’s why you become popular. When I did a promotion, it was for the Mercedes Benz’ Tweet Race for charity, and it was amazing. When you are true to your values in which brands you partner with, people respond to that.
For more information, please visit www.egamiconsulting.com.
