Upwork Branding Missing the Mark – What first caught my attention was the melody of the music bed. The theme reminds me of an old 1950s Western theme. Moreover, a Western piece has nothing to do with the video. Furthermore, it has less to do with the actors or the script. This is all somewhat disjointed, not to mention the main character is falling apart at the joints. (Sorry, I could not resist).

Old Zombie Upwork Guy

Commercials often aim to capture viewers’ attention and create memorable experiences. Sometimes, advertisers use unconventional or unexpected elements to stand out. It’s possible that the commercial was intentionally designed to be quirky or intriguing, combining seemingly unrelated elements to make a lasting impression.

Effectiveness and Impact

The effectiveness and impact of a commercial can vary from person to person. Some people may find the combination of a zombie-like character and old Western music entertaining or thought-provoking. In contrast, others may find it confusing or unrelated to the brand being advertised.

Ultimately, the success of a commercial depends on how well it resonates with its intended audience and effectively communicates the brand’s message or values.

Common Criticisms

• Disturbing Imagery: Many viewers find the commercial off-putting, particularly during mealtimes. One Reddit user described being disgusted by “body parts falling off a pervy looking gross old white man” while eating breakfast, highlighting the ad’s potential to repel rather than attract viewers.

• Questionable Branding Choice: Some critics question the wisdom of using a decaying zombie as a brand spokesperson. On LinkedIn, a user sarcastically asked, “Who the hell came up with a commercial featuring a rotting, dead guy as their spokesperson?” This reflects concerns about the ad’s tone and its alignment with Upwork’s professional image.

• Strategic Confusion: Beyond the ad itself, some critics link it to broader concerns about Upwork’s strategy. They argue that the company lacks a transparent, consistent approach, and the choice of a zombie mascot is seen as emblematic of this lack of focus.

Intent and Reception

• The campaign was designed to humorously mock outdated corporate traditions and promote Upwork as a platform for modern, agile work. The zombie CEO declares, “The old way of working is dead-er than me,” encouraging viewers to adopt new ways of working.

• While some appreciate the humor and boldness, others find the execution off-putting or even alienating, especially for those who dislike grotesque or macabre themes in advertising.

Summary Table: Criticisms of the Zombie Upwork Commercial

Conclusion

The “Old Zombie Upwork Guy” commercial is divisive. While it effectively lampoons outdated business practices, its grotesque imagery and unconventional spokesperson have drawn criticism for being off-putting and potentially misaligned with Upwork’s brand.