Companies often complain that customers and prospects just don’t seem to understand what they offer, or what differentiates them from the competition. They blame those customers and prospects for a lack of knowledge or intelligence — but they should blame that person in the mirror. As someone who earns a living helping companies communicate, I … Read more
Not long ago, I ran across an article by a CEO of what appeared to be an impressive, progressive company. I expected to find a glimpse of useful wisdom, but was stopped in my tracks by the sheer amount of profanity and vulgarity he had woven into his words. The CEO may have had brilliant … Read more
They lurk in the quiet corners of most offices, maintaining a low profile, performing their normal jobs quietly and efficiently. It’s a carefully practiced deception designed to divert attention from their true identities. They are the Grammar Nazis. When asked to review a document, a proposal, a brochure, or a report, they feign reluctance before … Read more
Ask me for a metaphor for the biggest single misconception about advertising and marketing, and I’ll point you toward the average American’s obsession with weight loss and the strategies employed in the pursuit of that goal. Every few months, a new diet appears. Suddenly, all sorts of people are binging on grapefruits, drinking 24 glasses … Read more
Long after the last Burma-Shave sign came down, outdoor billboards continue to provide an excellent opportunity to connect with people on the go. Remembering seven simple realties of outdoor advertising can make your outdoor boards far more effective, so your investment in them provides a higher return. 1. Choose the right place. Location is one … Read more
We’ve all heard it thousands of times: what we need is some out-of-the-box thinking. We could solve this problem if only we could step out of the box. Golly, J.P., that’s a really out-of-the-box idea! It seems that we can accomplish anything if we’re brave enough to step out of that bad, bad box, and … Read more
You’re probably familiar with the phrase “elephant in the room.” In the unlikely event you’re not, it refers to a difficult topic about which everyone is painfully aware, but that is so uncomfortable that nobody is willing to mention it publicly. It’s like the flask Aunt Sadie carries in her purse — everyone has seen … Read more
As GenXers begin to follow the Baby Boomers on their journey from milk to Metamucil, companies are making all sorts of changes to accommodate the needs of changing bodies. From lumbar supports in car seats to cushioned handles on kitchen utensils, manufacturers and service providers recognize the potential profit in catering to the comfort of … Read more
Humans love to laugh. Whether it’s a favorite sitcom, the latest wacky movie, the joke making the rounds of the office, or the meme we’re reposting on our social, we all appreciate things that make us smile and giggle. So it’s no surprise that when we’re developing advertising and other communications materials for our businesses, … Read more
Technology has been a great workplace equalizer, allowing everyone to perform tasks that once required specialized skills, and flattening organizational charts as companies reduce headcount. But added responsibility doesn’t automatically equate knowledge or expertise. I mention that because a side effect of that change is a growing misconception that anyone capable of forming an opinion … Read more