Controversy and Social Media

Controversy and social media

            ‘Pepsi’s recent ad starring Kendall Jenner caused quite an uproar on social media. The ad takes place at a protest, in which Kendall leaves a photo shoot to join people from different cultural backgrounds. The advertisement, which has now been pulled, sparked outcry.

         This advertisement has given another example of how important social media is in the success or failure of a campaign. Within hours of the ad being released, social media was lit up with opinions from consumers. There are people who see no issue with the ad, but those opinions are overshadowed by those opposed to the ad. While the ad is not inherently offensive, the way it is a perceived affects the audience’s response. The ad contained a likeness to a photograph from a Black Lives Matter protest, and many people felt that this action generalized the efforts of those involved in these protests.

         Social media can make or break a company’s reputation, and these past few weeks have given many examples of how important it is to have a positive presence on social media. Social media lets the opinion of the consumer be heard immediately by a company. This instantaneous feedback helps companies learn how to properly target their audience.