On July 1st, 2021, the NCAA announced that athletes could profit from their name, image, and likeness. This groundbreaking development opens a massive door to companies looking to team up with college athletes and make an impact on your target audience. Here are 8 benefits of advertising with a college athlete to promote your business:
Enhanced Brand Exposure:
Top college athletes often have a significant following, especially in popular sports such as football, basketball, and baseball (Although, many athletes are making brand deals through NIL, not just those in high-revenue-sports). By collaborating with these athletes, you can tap into their fan base and boost your brand exposure among an engaged audience.
Targeted Audience Reach:
Different college sports have unique fan demographics. By partnering with athletes from specific sports, you can more effectively target your desired audience. For example, if you’re looking to connect with young, fitness-conscious individuals, teaming up with a college track and field star would give you great visibility within that target demographic.
Increased Credibility and Trust:
College athletes are often viewed as role models, admired by their peers and fans. When these athletes endorse your brand or product, it significantly enhances your credibility and builds trust among their followers. Consumers are more likely to trust a product or service recommended by a respected athlete.
Authenticity and Relatability:
College athletes are relatable figures, especially to the college-age demographic. Their dedication, hard work, and struggles resonate with many students and young adults. When these athletes endorse your brand, it creates an authentic and relatable connection, strengthening the bond between your brand and the target audience.
Social Media Influence:
Popular college athletes often have a strong presence on social media, making them influential digital personalities. Partnering with these athletes allows you to leverage their social media platforms to promote your products, host giveaways, or share branded content. This collaboration helps businesses reach a wider audience and increases their online presence.
Local Community Engagement:
College athletes are integral to their local communities. Businesses can engage with these communities through athlete endorsements, sponsorships, or participation in local events. It’s a meaningful way to connect with the community and build brand loyalty.
Long-Term Partnerships:
Marketing with college athletes can extend beyond their college years. If an athlete goes on to have a successful professional career, their endorsement can continue to benefit a business. By establishing early connections with promising athletes, companies can build long-term partnerships that evolve as athletes’ careers progress.
Emotional Connections:
Sports have a unique ability to evoke emotions and create passionate fans. By aligning your brand with college athletes, you tap into the emotional connections fans have with their favorite teams and players. This emotional bond translates into higher engagement, brand loyalty, and ultimately, an increased likelihood of conversion.
Partnering with college athletes allows your company to leverage their popularity and increase brand awareness among your target audience. Not only does this provide financial opportunities for student-athletes, but it also offers your business a unique pathway to strengthen connections with customers and expand your reach to enthusiastic followers.