Monthly Archives: March 2010

The Power of Local

They tell me that the worst part of the economic downturn is behind us. Maybe it is, but I just haven’t seen anything that seems to indicate that’s the case. Everybody’s been hit hard, even the lawyers aren’t immune. A … Continue reading

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I Wonder What Bob Stone Would Say?

Once upon a time, I worked for a direct agency doing direct mail programs for large telecommunications companies.  I spent my days with my nose buried in giant mail matrices, looking at pro forma reports, debating about the impact of … Continue reading

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Is It Time To Rethink Your Trade Show Strategy?

Having attended more than my fair share of trade shows over the past six months, I have one question. To quote a former NFL coaching legend, “What the hell is going on out there?” No matter the industry or size … Continue reading

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Filed under advertising, Customer Experience, Trade Show

It’s the Idea, Stupid.

For the first 70 years of the twentieth century, agencies were paid based on how much media they bought for clients. This imploded after the growth of television drove the cost of media (and consequently the amount they paid agencies) … Continue reading

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iPhone Junkies Unite!

Image via CrunchBase As a relatively new member of the seemingly elite “I own an iPhone” club, I am still discovering the joys (and challenges) of owning such a life-changing device. And no, I do not think “life-changing” is an … Continue reading

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J.C. Penney Has a Flair for Fashion. Who Knew?

I was particularly intrigued by one company that made a big splash at the Oscars – J.C. Penney.  The pre-show advertising buzz about their spots made me curious.   I don’t shop at the department store, but I do have a … Continue reading

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In the age of social media, everyone needs a policy

So does your company need a policy? The short answer is duh, yeah. The long answer is, of course, much more complicated. You see, your policy should be defined by the kind of company you are and the goals you … Continue reading

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Social Media and the Trust Deficit

My first car was a land yacht from the early 1970s. It leaked oil everywhere, and only ran on seven cylinders — when it ran at all. By the time I was 19, the car and I were mortal enemies. … Continue reading

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Filed under customer research, Social Media

No more secrets

Back in the early nineties, Robert Redford made a movie called “Sneakers”. It was about government cryptography, espionage, and a device so powerful that there would be “no more secrets.” While on vacation last week, I had a moment to … Continue reading

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Community service and the small business

I believe in serving the community where you live and work. Not everyone can do this, because the pressures of everyday living provide little or no time. However, as a business owner, I think you have an obligation to do … Continue reading

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Filed under Ad Agencies, Community