Media Agnosticism
From matchbook covers to skywriting, it all works. Which is why you have to approach it all with Media Agnosticism. If somebody in your affinity group tells you they had success with direct mail, ask to see the piece. It matters.
Use a Screenwriter’s Trick to Make Memorable Ads
Character Diamonds were created by David Freeman, advisor to dozens of hit TV shows & movies. Deploying them in your advertising creates a bond with customers.
Change the Name, Change the Results
If you’re selling a commodity and that commodity is called the same thing at every business, give yours a better name. I can get a “large coffee” anyplace. I can get a Grande only at Starbucks.
Win Now. Win Later.
The balance between relational brand-building vs. getting the immediate sale has confused businesses and thrown marketers into battle positions. My spies on the inside tell me both sides are holding out on you.
A Love-letter to Radio Sales from 3 Ex-Production Directors
This fiery video challenges your media company to have an internal advocate for your advertisers. Somebody who will act in the best interest of the client and campaign.
What is Your Price Tag Advertising?
It’s a mistake to presume that “all people want is the lowest price.” That painful myth has led many-a-business to nosedive into bankruptcy. The price tag is advertising quality.
Long Ads, Short Ads, and Creating Viral Videos | Wizard’s Roundtable
Is it better to have a bunch of little 15 second ads or a full 60 second ad? Is a quick postcard better than a long letter? And how can we leverage entertainment?
They Hate My Ad! (Now what?)
Now, I don’t subscribe to the notion that “hey, they remembered you…and that’s all that matters.” It’s very easy to be outrageous and “get remembered.” The job of your ad is to “get remembered” and sell some stuff.
How Brandable Chunks Guarantee Brand Consistency | Wizard’s Roundtable
Without a consistent theme, you probably don't even have a campaign. And then at that point, what are you doing? You're not branding. You're not bonding.
McMann & Tate: Worst Ad Agency Ever
Howard McMann once said of his partner, “He’s slippery, he lies beautifully, and he has a great head of hair.” Legend has it, Tate once told a subordinate “If the client loves it, I love it! If the client hates it, I hate it!”
How Often Should Your Ad Play | Wizard’s Roundtable
How long should each ad stay on? How many ads do you run at a time? And as we look into the second half of 2020, is there less clutter out there?
Mistakes aren’t wrong. Wrong isn’t a mistake.
Makers of ads push their chairs back and say “yeahhh…now that’s smooooooth.” …while your customer sliiiides right off.
Making Better Recruitment Ads | Wizard’s Roundtable
How you recruit can say a lot about your company to both prospective employees and prospective customers alike. Some tips: As with any advertising, involve the applicant. It's not about money. Use current employees.
Formulas and Recipes
Formulas do exist in marketing: Quantitative research, KPIs, customer acquisition costs, pricing strategies, etc. But there are also malleable recipes: Customer experience, value perception, elegant logo design, and positive public relations.
Wizard’s Roundtable: How to Improve Your Marketing For Free(ish)
What are businesses doing as customers come back? And three things to measure right now to make sure employees are treating your customers right.