Tech’s Bringing Sexy Back: Taking Advantage of Technology’s New Image

Hollywood exudes sex appeal, glamour, and stardom. Now, that glamour is spilling over into other industries — including the tech world. Hollywood stars are funding and branding startups. Celebrities are joining companies as CMOs or creative directors. And now, they’re developing their own brands on the side, too: think Jessica Alba’s eco-friendly baby business, The Honest Company.

This trend goes the other way as well. With late-night TV appearances and commercial cameos, tech stars are going mainstream. And shows like “Shark Tank” are giving entrepreneurship a new reputation.

Tech entrepreneurs — and the industry itself — need to take advantage of this newfound interest for pitches, funding, marketing, and more. Technology isn’t nerdy; it’s sexy. And it’s time for the tech industry to start acting like it.

Hitching to a Star

It’s a trend: Next-generation startups are collaborating with tech-savvy artists and celebrities for even more reach and influence. Why? These public figures have made careers of staying relevant, artistically and culturally — and they’ve often got great ideas for connecting with audiences that are tricky to engage.

Likewise, for celebrities and artists, embracing technologies that help them connect with their audience can only bring more money, engagement, and a cool factor of being cutting edge. When a tech company can partner with an artist with vision, an even more interesting, engaging product can result.

Here’s a great example: Last June, teenage pop sensation Justin Bieber landed on the front cover of Forbes as one of the most unlikely venture capitalists. But contrary to his bubblegum image, Bieber is actually a formidable investor: He has stakes in at least a dozen startups. This isn’t as unusual as people may think.

Often, specific kinds of startups draw the attention of celebrities. Social media is an obvious choice to invest in, culturally and financially. Lady Gaga and her manager, Troy Carter, even created Backplane, a Silicon Valley-based startup that helps celebrities and brands connect with fans and foster community.

Often, companies will recruit stars for creative consultation, innovation, and brainstorming. Alicia Keys was named Global Creative Director of Blackberry in January. And Lady Gaga was recently appointed as the Creative Director at Polaroid. These creative partnerships give tech companies broader exposure and relevance in pop culture. The artists benefit with forward-thinking endorsements — and the financial benefit of a successful investment.

Going Mainstream

Celebrities aren’t the only ones making headlines thanks to tech innovation. The entrepreneurs, thinkers, and creators behind the keyboard are becoming celebrities in their own right, too.

Mark Zuckerberg created Facebook and seized a generation’s attention. He’s been immortalized in pop culture and film. Steve Jobs has become a similar cultural force: His legacy at Apple and Pixar has created legions of loyal followers.

Why the interest in technology rock stars? Creative minds are fascinating, no matter what field they work in. And, as technology becomes more accessible and integrated with our daily lives, it becomes even more interesting to see who’s making the products that we live with every day — and what their life stories are.

New Image, New Future

When tech companies are looking to find funding, launch a product, or create marketing materials, taking this new cultural phenomenon into account can only help the companies and their brands. Here are a few ways to take advantage of this newfound interest:

Think about how your company fits into pop culture’s current moment. Can you make your company, product, or service even more relevant? How?

Remember, there are more ways to make money with media than ever before. Tools and services can now give customers the content they want on any device, anywhere in the world. And that’s changed content distribution and monetization — forever. Think about how new distribution avenues could work for your company.

Pave the way with a powerful partnership. Not every brand can afford the star power of a pop artist or a tech rock star — but a smart collaboration could double the power of your innovation. Don’t be afraid to partner with someone outside the tech industry. Think about how an outside perspective can make your company even more marketable. Make sure it’s a win-win.

Tech isn’t just for nerds anymore. And this isn’t just good for the industry — it’s good for everyone, from consumers to creative minds. It’s time to seize the moment, take advantage of this trend, and create something truly sexy as two very powerful industries converge.

View the Original posting on Steamfeed.com here.