JUST DO IT

Why I Chose Nike

I decided to look at Nike because it’s one of those brands that everyone knows, but people still have strong opinions about. Whether it’s sneakers, workout gear, or high-fashion collabs, Nike is everywhere. I’ve always liked how the brand ties sports and culture together and how its marketing isn’t just about selling products but about attitude and motivation. I wanted to see what people are actually saying about Nike online and how the company uses social media to handle feedback, promote new drops, and keep people engaged. 

Background on Nike

Nike started back in 1964 and has grown into a global powerhouse in sportswear and lifestyle apparel. Their value proposition is built around innovation, inspiration, and performance. The slogan “Just Do It” sums up their message perfectly because they sell confidence, not just clothes. On their website, nike.com, you’ll see that they’re always pushing a mix of high-performance gear and streetwear that connects with athletes and trendsetters at the same time.

Nike’s marketing strategy has always centered on storytelling. They use powerful visuals, emotional ads, and top athletes to represent the brand. Whether it’s Serena Williams, LeBron James, or local creators, Nike’s message has always been about drive and determination. But with social media being as huge as it is, they now have to listen more closely to what fans are saying.

What People Are Saying on Instagram

On Instagram, Nike’s main page has over 300 million followers. The content is sleek, motivational, and well-produced with slow-motion training videos, close-ups of new sneakers, and stories that highlight community athletes. Their posts usually get hundreds of thousands of likes, but the comments tell a deeper story. Under posts about new sneaker drops, you’ll find a lot of love but also some frustration. One user commented, “Love these but impossible to get a pair. SNKRS app always plays me.” Another wrote, “Can you guys make more stock for real fans instead of resellers?” This shows how hype can be both a strength and a weakness. The excitement drives demand, but it also leaves many loyal fans feeling left out.On a recent post showing the new Pegasus running shoe, comments were mixed. Some praised the design, while others pointed out the rising prices. One comment said, “Nike’s quality is great, but $160 for trainers is wild.” It’s a reminder that even top brands have to think about value perception. Social media gives fans a direct space to voice those opinions instantly.

Nike’s “Air Afrique” collaboration got a lot of attention too. The post celebrating African design received tons of praise, with users commenting things like, “This is what global representation looks like!” and “Proud to see Africa on the map.” It shows how Nike can create real cultural moments when they collaborate authentically and highlight diverse creators.

How Nike Uses Social Media

Nike’s social media strategy is one of the strongest in the industry. They post consistently across multiple accounts like Nike Running, Nike Women, and Nike Football, each targeting different audiences. Their Instagram feed mixes product promotion with inspiration. You rarely see hard sales pitches; instead, the content feels like motivation or lifestyle storytelling. They use reels, athlete takeovers, and fan reposts to keep engagement high. 

That said, Nike doesn’t always respond directly to customer comments. Most posts are one-way communication, which works for brand image but sometimes makes them feel distant. With millions of followers, it’s understandable, but a little more personal interaction could go a long way.

If I Were the Brand Manager

If I managed Nike’s social media, I’d focus on turning Instagram into more of a two-way space. When fans complain about limited stock or prices, I’d have a small social media team reply to common questions or create short posts that explain how releases work. Transparency builds trust, and people appreciate when big brands actually listen.

I’d also feature more everyday athletes. Not just pros, but real people like college players, runners, parents, or weekend golfers telling their own stories through Nike products. It makes the brand feel more human and relatable.

Beyond Instagram, I’d host local pop-up events and livestreams before big releases. That would give fans a sense of inclusion and excitement while promoting community. Nike already dominates global marketing, but connecting more personally would make them feel closer to the fans that built their reputation.

What I Learned

This assignment made me realize that social listening is one of the most powerful parts of modern marketing. You can have millions of followers, but what really matters is how your brand interacts with them. Nike’s Instagram shows that a strong story and visuals can inspire millions, but listening and responding can make those connections even stronger.

I learned that even the biggest brands have to keep evolving and that success on social media isn’t just about posting, it’s about building a relationship with your audience. Nike’s story proves that when you combine culture, authenticity, and communication, you don’t just sell products. You build a movement.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nike