We’ve all sat in our share of frustrating meetings, but I can still remember the meeting that very nearly did me in. It took place in 1987 in a Chicago boardroom. A group of automotive industry CEOs (you’d recognize most of the company names) was meeting with a pair of representatives from a social services … Read more
Few phrases frustrate me as much as “dumbing down.” Usually, I hear it as a command (“This is technical, so dumb it down for our customers.”) or a protest (“I don’t think I should have to dumb this down!”) Both uses are offensive. Both are also clear signs the speaker doesn’t understand human communication. Years … Read more
Businesses invest quite a bit of time and money into sending messages to their customers. Unfortunately, most don’t realize that many of their actions result in other messages that may be inadvertent, but are also pretty dangerous. Financial institutions are particularly adept at delivering the wrong messages. After going through the semiannual ritual of gathering … Read more
What’s the ideal length of copy for websites and other marketing materials? I’ve noticed a lot of people seem to view themselves as experts on the subject — although what most don’t realize is their answers are based on personal preference or learned prejudice. The simple answer is that the correct amount of copy is … Read more
Freelance writers and other creative suppliers are accustomed to taking calls about the services we deliver. While the calls I receive focus on learning more about what I do, they also give me great insight into the sophistication of the callers and whether I really want to do business with them. Prospects often lack experience … Read more
One of the most common mistakes companies make when developing websites, blog posts, and other communications materials may surprise you. They completely lose sight of the audience. Confused? It’s absolutely true. I’ve seen it happen again and again. Companies invest huge amounts of money to develop websites, advertising, social media campaigns, and other materials, and … Read more
I wonder if you can answer a very simple question about your business. Do you do a good job? By that, I mean do you accomplish what you set out to do for your customers and clients? Do you provide more value than your competitors offer? Are your customers better off because they work with … Read more
Graphic design for seniors considers changes in people’s vision.
If I mention the word “psycho,”, there’s a very good chance that a certain black and white image will spring to mind: water trickling into a shower drain, slowly being supplanted by a darker fluid, all punctuated by ear-piercing shrieks. There’s also a very good chance that you just shuddered a little. Assuming that image … Read more
What makes you and your company the best at what you do? How well do your prospects and current customers understand your expertise and capabilities? Do they grasp just how good you are and what separates you from the rest? Most organizations try to convince customers and prospects rolling out tired language about their “world-class … Read more