We have psychologist Carl Jung to thank for the 12 brand archetypes: he developed a theory that we’re all hardwired to recognise and react to distinctive personality traits.
Why should you use them to shape your brand story? Choosing the right archetype can help you build a relationship with your audience, giving them familiar characteristics they can connect with. It strengthens your brand positioning and gives people the shorthand they need to understand what your brand stands for.
You might already recognise the 12 archetypes from familiar examples like Apple, Disney and pretty much every scotch whisky brand you’ll ever taste. You might recognise them in your brand strategy. Or maybe even your own outlook on life.
Here’s the lowdown on these compelling characters.
#1 THE INNOCENT
Glass half full attitude, unshakeable optimism and a wide-eyed wonder at the world characterise The Innocent. If your brand needs a slice of happiness, trust and wholesome warmth, this is the archetype for you.
Who nailed it? Innocent Drinks (not a coincidence we’re sure), Toys R Us, Coco-Cola
#2 THE EVERYMAN
The Realist (also known as The Realist or The Friend) is down to earth, straight talking and unpretentious. Want to appear dependable, one of the gang, likeable and humble? Check out The Realist.
Who nailed it? PG Tips, Marks & Spencer, IKEA
#3 THE HERO
Want your brand to be the one that saves the day? The Hero can help. Courage, determination and skill characterise this archetype. Their reason for being is to make the world a better place.
Who nailed it? Nike, Cillit Bang, BMW
#4 THE OUTLAW
Calling all disruptors, revolutionaries and rebel hearts. The Outlaw is designed to buck tradition. An always thrilling energy, The Outlaw takes on the beige brigade and crushes it under its heel.
Who nailed it? Supreme, Smirnoff Vodka, Harley Davidson, Brewdog
#5 THE EXPLORER
The Explorer is the adventurer who seeks out new experiences and ideas. This archetype values freedom, individuality and finding meaning in discovery.
Who nailed it? The North Face, Starbucks, GoPro
#6 THE CREATOR
The Creator’s purpose is to use imagination to bring a vision to life. This archetype thrives on turning an original idea into reality, celebrating the creative process and leaving their mark with something of lasting value.
Who nailed it? Lego, Apple, Adobe
# 7 THE RULER
The Ruler is the boss and wants you to know it. Supreme confidence, power and prosperity give brands who use this archetype an unshakeable air of authority. Only winners need apply.
Who nailed it? Mercedes, Rolex, Dom Perignon
#8 THE MAGICIAN
The Magician is the gateway to making dreams come true. Magic, transformation and the ability to inspire the consumer are all attributes of this powerful and visionary personality.
Who nailed it? Audi, Polaroid, MAC Cosmetics
#9 THE LOVER
Seeking bliss and desirability for your brand? The Lover is the seductress of the archetypes, pining for intimacy and human connection. Deploy this for maximum romance.
Who nailed it? Chanel, Magnum, Baileys
#10 THE CAREGIVER
Inject a little Mother Teresa into your brand with The Caregiver. This is a character that takes generosity, selflessness and altruism to a whole new level. It’s a beautiful thing.
Who nailed it? Johnson’s, Pampers, Flora
#11 THE JESTER
Your inner child called and asked if The Jester can come over for a play date. This archetype stands for optimism, fun and living life in the moment. Don’t be fooled though; they’re smart too.
Who nailed it? M&Ms, Domino’s, Dollar Shave Club
#12 THE SAGE
What say you, oh wise one? The Sage is a seeker of knowledge and truth, proponent of wisdom and shedder of light in an often confusing world. Guess we could all use a touch of Yoda in our lives.
Who nailed it? BBC, TED, The Economist
At Southpaw, we use brand archetypes and other brand building techniques to drive an emotional connection with our clients' brands. Our bespoke Science of Emotion methodology ensures we create the most effective campaigns possible.
To find out more about our methodology, and what we can do to grow your brand, please contact laura.wood@southpawagency.com
