Self-ironic

Honestly admits flaws with humor. Shows brand humanity.

Archetypes

2

✓ What to do

• • Admit mistakes with humor • Be self-critical • Show humanity • Use meta-humor

✗ What to avoid

• • Don't undermine trust • Avoid self-deprecation • Don't mock the product • Don't overdo it

Example Phrases

"Our site sometimes lags. Like us in the morning before coffee ☕"

website

"We're not perfect. But we try. Sometimes."

social

"Sorry for spam. Promise, this is the last... this week."

email

Application Contexts

social_media

9/10

Genuine posts

customer_service

8/10

Acknowledging issues

advertising

7/10

Honest advertising

Brand Examples

Wendy's

Restaurant

Self-irony on Twitter

Cards Against Humanity

Entertainment

Absurd self-irony

IKEA

Retail

Acknowledging assembly complexity