Brand archetypes are the secret sauce to creating stronger brands, and are an essential tool for any marketing toolbox! To learn more, read the introduction here.
An inherently disruptive force, the Outlaw aims to shake things up, whether for personal gain or for the good of others. Toward the negative end of the archetype, the Outlaw is provoked to anger when encountering personal offense. It doesn’t mind being feared by others, as fear is seen as power. Extremist groups are almost always an example of the Outlaw.
On the positive end, the Outlaw makes others uncomfortable with the status quo in hopes of evoking change. For instance, many civil rights activists engaged in peaceful demonstrations, yet are still examples of the Outlaw archetype in action.
The Outlaw is a countercultural force capable of releasing society’s taboos (sex, drugs, and rock ‘n’ roll anyone?) and does so by tapping into the shadowy part of human nature. Any brand that seeks to liberate itself (or others) from repression and break free of the prevailing dominant culture is an Outlaw.
For examples of the Outlaw archetype, look to Robin Hood, Malcolm X, Harley-Davidson, MTV, Howard Stern, and Miley Cyrus.
Outlaw brands can either reinforce questionable moral values or can topple an oppressive regime. These brands rely on marketing that emphasizes risk taking and a departure from the ho-hum status quo. This may be achieved through imagery that is either dark and destructive or bold and revolutionary. There is often a certain element of shock value, whether extreme or simply a clever or unexpected joke.
Brands representing relatively “healthy” or “normal” products or services will often call upon the Outlaw in a lighthearted way, using marketing cues to suggest their brand is appropriate when people want to feel just a little bit bad or set apart from the norm.
The organizational culture of Outlaw brands is often quite revolutionary in and of itself, as employees tend to identify as Outlaws and the passion they possess is seen throughout their work.
Each archetype can be expressed at varying levels. The lower levels are more primitive, while higher levels are more mature or developed.
Level 1: Identifying as an outsider and therefore pulling away from conventional society.
Level 2: Engaging in shocking or disruptive behaviors.
Level 3: Becoming a revolutionary.
There are different aspects of the Outlaw brand archetype that can emerge, based on the strength of various attributes. The book Archetypes in Branding includes the Outlaw (Rebel) as one of five related sub-archetypes.
The Rebel is a rule-breaker and a risk-taker. Fed up with convention, the Rebel pushes the envelope to bring about social change, a fresh perspective, or a reawakening. However, with the potential to be fueled by anger and negativity, the Rebel must be careful not to overstep one too many boundaries in its quest for reform.
The Activist fights for a cause, wanting to radically transform some economic, political, or social structure. This sub-archetype believes in the power of the people to affect change, and rallies others behind its cause.
The Gambler thrives on risk. There are no limits to what the Gambler is willing to bet, which can lead to addiction and compulsion. Yet, this sub-archetype is socially adept and has good instincts.
The free-thinking Maverick rejects any sort of label or constraint. With an independent streak a mile wide, the Maverick displays intellect, aggression, and fearlessness while going against the grain.
The Reformer’s quest to affect change is typically a little more understated and calculated than, say, the free-wheeling Maverick. Seen in the roles of watchdog or whistleblower, the Reformer seeks to find ways to improve the existing system rather than destroy it completely.
Harley-Davidson is the quintessential mainstream Outlaw brand. For hog lovers, Harley-Davidson represents freedom from the rigid constraints of society. As one loyal rider put it, “A lot is expected from you, to be certain things for a lot of people all day long. And if you don’t watch out, you might not know who you really are. You don’t have to worry about any of that when you’re on a Harley. You are with yourself and your companion.”
While some might argue there are more revolutionary forms of commerce these days (like bitcoin or near-field communication via Apple Pay or Samsung Pay), PayPal nonetheless positions itself as the “new money in town” in a very strong Outlaw fashion.
CWA is a labor union that fights for social and economic justice. Amid raised fists, pounding drums, and rally cries, CWA evokes the Activist sub-archetype of the Outlaw in the video below.
The Outlaw consumer may feel like a castoff from the dominant culture. (For example, members of minority groups who feel marginalized.) Alienation is a trigger, which can lead to anger. Outlaw consumers get their kicks from engaging in risky behavior and may take part in self-destructive acts so they can feel “bad.” Young people who are looking to “find themselves” often push past the Explorer tendency and continue right along to Outlaw status when they feel especially alienated.
Outlaw consumers are drawn to the racy, shocking, or politically incorrect. They have a deep-seated desire for freedom. Yet, surprisingly enough, fringe Outlaw consumers may also include well-adjusted, law-abiding members of society who simply feel a need to let off steam every now and then.
Brands that want to reach Outlaw consumers will need to gauge their level of extremism and act accordingly. In the case of fringe Outlaws, the best way to reach them is through mass communication. (Be forewarned, though — they do have a lower threshold for shock value.)
Brands with a higher revolutionary focus tend to avoid the mainstream due to the potential to offend and will need to reach consumers through targeted special interest groups and virtual hubs.
Outlaw brands must often walk a fine line, as they can sometimes be perceived as offensive. Take a look at the products or services you offer. Do they disrupt the status quo of your industry or society? What about your customer base? Is it made up of people who feel at odds with society at large? If so, yours just may be an Outlaw brand.
Still not sure which archetype defines your brand? Take the brand archetype quiz to find out your results and then check out an overview of the 12 brand archetypes to learn more.
We’ve heard the familiar saying “opposites attract” but we’ve also heard “like attracts like.” When it comes to brand archetypes, which is true regarding our target audience?
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