By Barry Janoff
Feb. 10, 2012: World-class swimmer Michael Phelps spends a lot of time in the water, but not all of it. Which is one reason he has signed with Procter & Gamble's Head & Shoulders to star in a global marketing campaign.
Phelps, who is in training for the 2012 Summer Olympics in London, joins Troy Polamalu of the Pittsburgh Steelers and and Minnesota Twins All-Star catcher Joe Mauer as brand spokesmen.
Phelps will be featured in a multi-media campaign, "Wash in Confidence," that is scheduled to break later this month on TV, print and via a digital and social media platform. Tagline: "It's not just the flakes we wash out, it's the confidence we wash in."
The campaign is timed to support the launch of four Head & Shoulders' shampoos for men: Active Sport, High Endurance, Refresh and Deep Clean.
“I have found throughout my career that one of the most important factors in performance is confidence," Phelps said in a statement. "By using head & shoulders I have the confidence that I need to be at my best for the moments that matter most – in the pool and in life.”
The effort also touts P&G's roll as an Olympic partner. According to the company, "The Head & Shoulders' Olympic Games ‘Wash in Confidence’ campaign is aimed at encouraging individuals all over the world to take part by washing in confidence and washing out doubt. With the ‘Wash in confidence’ campaign, Head & Shoulders captures the inclusive, participatory spirit of the Olympic Games, for Olympians and ordinary people."
"If there is any bit of doubt or negativity, than you are not going to be as successful as possible." — Michael Phelps
A dedicated Facebook page encourages visitors to "shower their national athletes with messages of support." As part of the relationship, Head & Shoulders will also support Phelps’ charitable efforts through the Michael Phelps Foundation.
According to Phelps, "If there is any bit of doubt or negativity, than you are not going to be as successful as possible. To be your best, you have to trust and believe in yourself completely, you have to be confident, and receiving support messages from fans all over the world certainly goes a long way.”
Phelps marketing partners also include Subway, Under Armour and Hilton Hotels.