In Class 4, we discussed the blogging platforms that companies can use. Denny’s uses Tumblr and it has a fandom on the micr0-blogging site. With much of Tumblr crazed about Superwholock, how has a 61-year-old American diner inspired a legion of fans online?
First, Denny’s speaks Tumblr’s quirky language. It has memes (e.g., “dennys, u okay?”), and posts ranging from bacon gifs to haikus. Its Tumblr mimics the conversations that happen in Denny’s booths (the kind where we have nothing to do but don’t want to go home). Going on their blog feels like walking into one of their restaurants.
One of Denny’s eloquently written haikus.
Unlike other corporate Tumblrs, Denny’s doesn’t focus on coupons and specials. The diner chooses to talk to customers as an actual person by using Tumblr’s interactive functions, including its “ask” feature. Its replies to questions don’t have perfect grammar, but they’re funny and representative of how Tumblr speaks.
Denny’s tongue-in-cheek answers.
Finally, Denny’s creates conversations with their customers. Other companies invite people to share their images and experiences with the brand, thereby increasing engagement. But Denny’s takes it a step beyond passively reblogging photos and text posts by adding comments. This turns their blogging into genuine connecting.
Denny’s witty comments.
What ultimately separates Denny’s from other corporate blogs is its authenticity. The brand blogs just like the typical Tumblr user. Be honest – you had a hard time believing this is really Denny’s Tumblr.
We really wouldn’t know the difference!