What brands can learn from Trump’s hyperbole

In the relentless pursuit of people’s attention, brands often find themselves tempted to stretch the truth. Maybe to inflate their claims ever so slightly. Or maybe to just outright promise the moon. But in this age of heightened skepticism and instant fact-checking, any exaggeration is a dangerous game. It erodes trust, damages reputations, and ultimately leaves brands with disillusioned customers.

We need look no further than the political arena for a stark example of this phenomenon. Donald Trump’s rhetoric serves as a cautionary tale. While the context is different, the underlying principle remains the same: trust crumbles when promises consistently outstrip reality.

The lure of hyperbole

It’s easy to see why brands and individuals alike are drawn to exaggeration. It’s a shortcut to attention. It’s a way to cut through the noise and make a bold statement. In the short term, it might generate buzz and excitement. But there is the inevitable backlash. And the long-term consequences are far more damaging. When brands fail to deliver on their inflated promises, customers feel betrayed.

The Trump parallel

A constant stream of hyperbole has marked Trump’s presidencies. From promises to build a wall and make Mexico pay for it to claims of the…