Archive for January, 2009

I recently read an article about Web site content with an interesting analogy. It suggested your Web site is a stage. Based on that scenario, ask yourself these questions: Are the “actors” on your stage bringing your story to life? How are you engaging your audience?

A play doesn’t succeed because of big names or the musical score. And an inspired script offered up in an uninspiring way won’t fill the seats. It takes energy and imagination to turn mere words into art.

Look at your Web site content – and the way it is presented – with a critic’s eye.  What kind of review will you get?

9 days, 10 hours and counting…  I will be rooting for the Steelers, of course, because I grew up with Mean Joe Green and the Steel Curtain, along with the memorable Superbowl commercial he made. But I’m starting to wonder if the Superbowl commercials – which are sometimes the highlight of otherwise dull games – will live up to the past. With all the doom and gloom projections, will the scaled back financing for commercials generate junk or a catalyst for creativity? What are your favorite Superbowl commercials … and are they great because of blockbuster spending or blockbuster ideas?

The inauguration is just days away, but recent advertising campaigns may be giving you a sense of deja vu. Are we still in the midst of a presidential campaign. Take Ben & Jerry’s newest flavor of ice cream – Yes, Pecan! Described as “amber waves of buttery ice cream with roasted non-partisan pecans, it’s a a not-so-subtle play on one of the oft-repeated campaign slogans used by the Obama campaign. IKEA is also playing up a campaign theme with its “change begins at home” ads, and Pepsi’s new logo is reminiscent of the Obama campaign logo. Coincidence? I don’t think so. One successful campaign has provided the inspiration for others… it makes you wonder what’s next, doesn’t it?

I see what you did there...

LinkedIn. Facebook. Twitter. Social Media is everywhere… and it is taking word of mouth marketing to a new realm. Don’t believe me… check out the Word of Mouth Marketing Association. (Yes, Virgnia, there really is a WOMMA.)  If that doesn’t convince you that word of mouth marketing is the wave of the future, I don’t know what will.

No doubt about it – 2009 will be the year of economizing when it comes to marketing budgets. That’s why developing successful Web advertising campaigns will be critical. On-line advertising can be very cost effective with the added bonus that you can test different messages and receive tracking data to help you better define your company, your brands, or your products. And studies have shown that banner ads aid in brand recall – so even if you don’t get a click from every viewer, you’re building brand awareness.