Billabong has launched a new social media microsite that strives to find out what makes surfers tick.
The Billabong microsite, www.isurfbecause.com, asks surfing fans to explain why they love to surf or want to try it. We have had a quick play and it is actually pretty cool.
I surf because ...
I surf because….
You can choose an image or video clip and make up your own “I Surf Because … ” poster which then gets added to a weekly and monthly competition. We particularly liked the opportunity to grab a still photo from a video clip – you become the photographer and decide on teh shot to use for your poster.
Once you have created your poster you can share your intimate thoughts on why you surf through Facebook and Twitter links.
One prize up for grabs includes a trip to surf Jeffreys Bay in South Africa with Marco Occhilupo.
“The challenge for any brand is creating intimacy with the consumer. It’s so easy to just be a ‘big brand’ and assume people all want to hear the same thing,” said Stirling Howard, digital marketing manager at Billabong International. “Creating an intimate message can be a challenge, but at the same time very rewarding — not just for the brand, but also for the consumer.”
Users can also personalize wallpapers with surfing snapshots, and then submit them to Billabong for review. Consumers can also share the wallpapers with friends on social media platforms.
“I believe in the power of word of mouth and if people feel something is worth talking about or sharing, then that’s a powerful catalyst in delivering any brand message,” added Howard.
Here’s a few of the latest posters…
Build your own “I surf because” poster at www.isurfbecause.com and who knows you might even get picked to go surfing with Occy in South Africa.
