Monica Kumar, CMO of Hitachi, Elucidates the Value of Authenticity in Meeting Consumer Expectations
In today’s consumer-driven world, authenticity has become a driving force behind successful brand marketing. Gone are the days when consumers were satisfied with flashy advertisements and empty promises. Now, they demand brands to be genuine, relatable, and transparent. Monica Kumar, the Chief Marketing Officer at Hitachi, an international technology company, understands this shift and explains why authenticity has become crucial in today’s market.
According to Kumar, consumers are tired of being bombarded with marketing messages that feel detached from reality. They want to connect with brands on a deeper level and form meaningful relationships. This desire for authenticity stems from the increasing influence of social media, where consumers have access to extensive information and platforms to voice their opinions.
Kumar says, “Social media has empowered consumers like never before. They now have the power to make or break a brand based on their experiences and interactions. In this digital age, where information spreads rapidly, companies cannot afford to be anything but authentic.”
Authenticity is about more than just using the right buzzwords or trendy marketing tactics. It’s about aligning a brand’s actions and values with what they promise to deliver. Kumar emphasizes the importance of transparency, stating, “Consumers can see through inauthenticity. They want brands to be honest and transparent about their values, processes, and products. It’s not just about talking the talk; brands need to walk the walk.”
Kumar believes that being authentic enables brands to build trust and loyalty among their customers. She explains, “When consumers feel that a brand is genuine, they are more likely to become loyal advocates. They trust the brand to deliver on its promises, and they feel an emotional connection. This loyalty translates into repeat business and positive word-of-mouth recommendations.”
To achieve authenticity, Kumar advises brands to focus on their purpose and values. She says, “Beyond selling products or services, brands need to have a clear purpose and a set of values that they stand for. This purpose-driven approach creates an authentic brand identity that resonates with consumers.”
Another aspect of authenticity lies in embracing imperfections and being willing to learn and improve. Kumar states, “No brand is flawless, and consumers recognize that. Admitting mistakes, taking responsibility, and demonstrating a commitment to positive change can actually enhance a brand’s authenticity. It shows that the brand is human and genuinely cares about its customers’ experience.”
Finally, Kumar emphasizes the role of content marketing in building authenticity. She advises brands to create content that adds value and resonates with their audience. “Content should be informative, entertaining, and align with the values and purpose of the brand. It should speak to consumers on a personal level and create a connection,” says Kumar.
In conclusion, Monica Kumar, CMO of Hitachi, strongly believes that today’s consumer demands brands to be authentic. In a world where consumers have more power and information than ever before, authenticity has become a key differentiator. Brands that can genuinely connect with their audience, build trust, and deliver on their promises are the ones that will thrive in this demanding market.
