Positioning
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Positioning In their book, Positioning: The Battle For Your Mind, Al Ries & Jack Trout remind us... It is a crowded & noisy world. As consumers we have infinite choice & there is often very little real differentiation in the products we choose. So how in the world DO WE CHOOSE? Positioning is what you do to the mind of the prospect. You position the product in the mind of the prospect. Positioning is NOT about creating something new & different. It’s to manipulate what’s in the mind. To retie the connections that already exist. The easy way to get into the mind is to be 1st. If you can’t be 1st, you must find a way to position against the product that did get there 1st. What position in your customer’s mind does your business occupy? Let me know in the comments below!
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How Might We?
How Might We?
This is the question to ask.
Instead of asking “What Should We Say?”
Try asking “How Might We?”
“How” - says solutions exist and provide confidence to identity and solve for unmet needs.
“Might” - is permission to put ideas out there that might work or might not. Either way, it’s all good.
“We” - says we are collaborating and building on one another’s ideas to find a solution.
Ask:
“How Might We increase memberships?”
“How Might We communicate all the benefits of our gym?”
“How Might We find the best stories to tell?”
How Might We?
Start adding this question to your existing toolkit of questions and see where it takes you. You’ll be surprised where the HMW roads lead.
Do you ask How Might We Questions in your business?
The Golden Age Of Brand
The Golden Age of Brand
We are living in a brand revolution.
The bridge between brand and business has never been stronger.
The entire customer experience is driven by brand.
And we’re inventing and reinventing what being a brand professional is all about.
Just as the Rolling Stones were pushing rock n’ roll in the 70s.
And Dr. Dre and Snoop were pushing rap in the 90s
We are defining what brand and branding means today.
There’s never been a better time to be a branding professional or apply it to your business.
Do you think we’re in the golden age of branding? Let me know in the comments below.
Brands Are Hungry
Brands Are HUNGRY
A Brand is like having a child.
It demands a lot from you.
It needs love and attention.
Every new brand you launch is a new mouth to feed.
And Brands are HUNGRY
This is why we are seeing a shift from houses of brands…
(think P&G or Unilever)
To a brand house.
(think FedEx or Apple)
It’s easier and more cost effective to manage a master brand of a brand house than it is to manage many hungry brands.
Do you think brands are hungry? Let me know in the comments below.
So You Wanna Be A Thought Leader
So you wanna be a thought leader…
It’s the “in” thing to do right now, right?
Well there’s only one way it’s going to happen.
You’re gonna have to WRITE.
Whether you’re sharing thoughts with
TEXT
Or
VIDEO
Or
IMAGES
Or
AUDIO
You’re gonna have to write.
So what are you waiting for? Start writing!
I've Got No Content
I’ve Got No Content…
I’m out.
It took about 365 days.
Everything I’ve written has been designed and published.
I got burned out.
So I took a break.
The content beast has a voracious appetite.
Wait…
By writing about having no content…
I’m creating a piece of valuable content.
Looks like I’m back baby!
It’s okay to take a break from the content machine every now and then. How often do you take breaks? Let me know in the comments.
Why My Rate Is $400Hr Green
Why My Rate is $400/hr
First, I don’t like to charge hourly.
We mostly charge by project - this means my team and our clients all know the budget.
When the situation is right, I’ll do hourly work - usually only phone consults at $400/hr with a 2 hr minimum.
Why? This work isn’t like being a plumber.
(or any other profession that charges hourly)
The other day I had a plumber out to the house. He did his work, charged me an hourly rate + materials.
The second he left do you think he ever thought about that job again?
Did he run from his morning shower to write down an idea he had for my house?
Did he wake up at 3am dreaming about an amazing insight for my family?
I doubt it.
But when you hire me. Even at $400/hr that’s what happens.
My mind is always thinking of you and your business.
When I’m in the car...
in the shower…
& when I sleep.
Hey, if you don’t think it’s worth it you don’t have to hire me. But I bet your competitor will.
Why do you charge your hourly rate? Let me know in the comments below.
How To Not Grow Your Brand Pink
HOW TO NOT GROW YOUR BRAND
If we’re lucky in our careers we get to be a part of a successful brand.
But as that brand continues to grow it faces its own unique challenges.
So many aging brands are focussed on selling to their core customer.
And while they are maintaining revenues, they aren’t growing.
The simple truth?
At a certain point, you can’t grow the business by selling to your core.
Brand building never ends. In today’s fast paced world we are constantly fighting for relevance.
We are constantly fighting for growth and new customers.
But if all we do is sell to our core… we can’t grow. How do you find ways to grow your business in addition to your core? Let me know in the comments below.
What Not To Do Black
What NOT to DO
This is the hardest part of brand building.
Not choosing what TO do…
But choosing what NOT to do.
At its core, this is what a great brand does.
It says NO to great opportunities…
That aren’t the RIGHT opportunities.
I get it. It’s not easy to say NO.
But you know you’re building a great brand when you’re clear on what NOT to do.
Do you think choosing what not to do is hard? Let me know in the comments below.
Recommended
How Might We?
How Might We?
This is the question to ask.
Instead of asking “What Should We Say?”
Try asking “How Might We?”
“How” - says solutions exist and provide confidence to identity and solve for unmet needs.
“Might” - is permission to put ideas out there that might work or might not. Either way, it’s all good.
“We” - says we are collaborating and building on one another’s ideas to find a solution.
Ask:
“How Might We increase memberships?”
“How Might We communicate all the benefits of our gym?”
“How Might We find the best stories to tell?”
How Might We?
Start adding this question to your existing toolkit of questions and see where it takes you. You’ll be surprised where the HMW roads lead.
Do you ask How Might We Questions in your business?
The Golden Age Of Brand
The Golden Age of Brand
We are living in a brand revolution.
The bridge between brand and business has never been stronger.
The entire customer experience is driven by brand.
And we’re inventing and reinventing what being a brand professional is all about.
Just as the Rolling Stones were pushing rock n’ roll in the 70s.
And Dr. Dre and Snoop were pushing rap in the 90s
We are defining what brand and branding means today.
There’s never been a better time to be a branding professional or apply it to your business.
Do you think we’re in the golden age of branding? Let me know in the comments below.
Brands Are Hungry
Brands Are HUNGRY
A Brand is like having a child.
It demands a lot from you.
It needs love and attention.
Every new brand you launch is a new mouth to feed.
And Brands are HUNGRY
This is why we are seeing a shift from houses of brands…
(think P&G or Unilever)
To a brand house.
(think FedEx or Apple)
It’s easier and more cost effective to manage a master brand of a brand house than it is to manage many hungry brands.
Do you think brands are hungry? Let me know in the comments below.
So You Wanna Be A Thought Leader
So you wanna be a thought leader…
It’s the “in” thing to do right now, right?
Well there’s only one way it’s going to happen.
You’re gonna have to WRITE.
Whether you’re sharing thoughts with
TEXT
Or
VIDEO
Or
IMAGES
Or
AUDIO
You’re gonna have to write.
So what are you waiting for? Start writing!
I've Got No Content
I’ve Got No Content…
I’m out.
It took about 365 days.
Everything I’ve written has been designed and published.
I got burned out.
So I took a break.
The content beast has a voracious appetite.
Wait…
By writing about having no content…
I’m creating a piece of valuable content.
Looks like I’m back baby!
It’s okay to take a break from the content machine every now and then. How often do you take breaks? Let me know in the comments.
Why My Rate Is $400Hr Green
Why My Rate is $400/hr
First, I don’t like to charge hourly.
We mostly charge by project - this means my team and our clients all know the budget.
When the situation is right, I’ll do hourly work - usually only phone consults at $400/hr with a 2 hr minimum.
Why? This work isn’t like being a plumber.
(or any other profession that charges hourly)
The other day I had a plumber out to the house. He did his work, charged me an hourly rate + materials.
The second he left do you think he ever thought about that job again?
Did he run from his morning shower to write down an idea he had for my house?
Did he wake up at 3am dreaming about an amazing insight for my family?
I doubt it.
But when you hire me. Even at $400/hr that’s what happens.
My mind is always thinking of you and your business.
When I’m in the car...
in the shower…
& when I sleep.
Hey, if you don’t think it’s worth it you don’t have to hire me. But I bet your competitor will.
Why do you charge your hourly rate? Let me know in the comments below.
How To Not Grow Your Brand Pink
HOW TO NOT GROW YOUR BRAND
If we’re lucky in our careers we get to be a part of a successful brand.
But as that brand continues to grow it faces its own unique challenges.
So many aging brands are focussed on selling to their core customer.
And while they are maintaining revenues, they aren’t growing.
The simple truth?
At a certain point, you can’t grow the business by selling to your core.
Brand building never ends. In today’s fast paced world we are constantly fighting for relevance.
We are constantly fighting for growth and new customers.
But if all we do is sell to our core… we can’t grow. How do you find ways to grow your business in addition to your core? Let me know in the comments below.
What Not To Do Black
What NOT to DO
This is the hardest part of brand building.
Not choosing what TO do…
But choosing what NOT to do.
At its core, this is what a great brand does.
It says NO to great opportunities…
That aren’t the RIGHT opportunities.
I get it. It’s not easy to say NO.
But you know you’re building a great brand when you’re clear on what NOT to do.
Do you think choosing what not to do is hard? Let me know in the comments below.
Brand Is Like Golf White Underlines
Brand is like Golf.
The game of golf is a very simple premise.
Get the ball in the hole in as few strokes as possible.
It’s not more complicated than that.
But a lot of people become obsessed with the game.
And as such, there’s a tendency to go deep.
And spend a lifetime…
And for some people a fortune…
Trying to perfect that which is imperfectable…
Kinda like all this branding stuff…
Sometimes we just need to remember that this brand game is about getting the ball in the hole in as few strokes as possible.
Do you find yourself making the brand game more complicated than it needs to be? Let me know in the comments below.
Pride Google Sheets Easter Egg Green
PRIDE Google Sheets Easter Egg
Google is always doing cool things to support their community.
Since June is Pride month…
Google has inserted an awesome Easter Egg in Sheets.
1. Open Sheets
2. Write the word “PRIDE” in the columns.
Watch what happens!
I might start all of my Sheets like this going forward!
What do you think of Google’s Sheets Pride Easter Egg? Let me know in the comments below.
Burn Out Pink
Burn Out.
It’s real.
It happens to all of us.
It’s happening to me.
At first I thought I was unhappy and unfulfilled.
Then I realized I've just been working too hard.
Stretched too thin.
I need a break.
I’m planning on leaning into the summer, taking Friday’s off, and most importantly…
Not being so hard on myself.
How do you know you’re feeling the effects of burnout and what do you do to recharge? Let me know in the comments below.
What Do You Want to Be Known For Black
What Do You Want to Be Known For?
It’s a pretty easy question.
But so many people struggle with this one.
Admittedly I do from time to time as well.
But ask yourself,
“What Do I Want To Be Known For”
As a Brand…
As a Company…
As a Product…
As a Person…
Then put all your energy into making sure the rest of the world knows it too. What do you want to be known for? Let me know in the comments below.
Relax Ask Some Questions Pink
Relax.
Ask Some Questions.
When things get stressful.
When things are weird.
When things aren’t going the way you thought they would.
RELAX
Ask some questions
Ask WHY
Get curious
Questions open up doors to worlds and galaxies that were invisible seconds prior.
What are some of your favorite questions to ask when the going gets tough?
Let me know in the comments below.
Testing Doesn’t Work Black
Testing Doesn’t Work
Testing big ideas by its very nature is flawed.
To be clear I’m talking about focus groups, test groups, processes that score work before launch, etc when I say “testing”.
Testing looks for what’s wrong with an idea.
Not what’s right.
If you look at the most perfect anything long enough you’ll find flaws, imperfections, and reasons not to believe.
Testing suggests that people react logically and intellectually to branding.
As if they pass a brand and say “Gee… that product is psychologically and emotionally representing my unmet needs…”
Testing is flawed because no one really knows what will resonate until the idea and brand is out in the world. The real world.
Testing also assumes that we really know what makes branding work and it can always be quantified, measured, and analyzed.
I don’t think we can.
Do you think testing works? Let me know in the comments below.
Messaging White Line
Messaging
Is why most businesses fail to connect with customers.
Messaging...Shows value you offer.
Messaging...Show’s why you’re different.
Messaging...Is the reason customers choose you.
Messaging isn’t just what we say but HOW we say it.
Messaging that works doesn't focus on telling people what you do.
They probably know already.
The messaging that works for your brand highlights the value of what you do for your customer and how it’s different from the other options they have.
Messaging is the most important, but most overlooked, component of a brand.
Is your messaging doing its job for your brand? Let me know in the comments below.
When Companies Get It Right Green
When Companies Get Brand Right
They ask - “what business problem am I trying to solve?”
They seek the advice of a professional to guide them through the process.
They never stop branding. It's a fluid, ever evolving practice. It's an always-on function in your business.
Customers are demanding more for the companies they do business with. They care about what the business stands for and require that they back up the beliefs they put on a website.
Businesses that look to build communities as a cornerstone of their brand are winning.
Stop selling your product, features and benefits. Sell the story. Sell the feeling and experience your customer has with your brand.
Be willing to take risk and accept change as a part of being great.
Be different. Stand out. Find the white space. Own a position in your customer's mind.
When do you think companies get “brand” right? Let me know in the comments below.
Start With Who Black
Start with Who
Instead of starting with Why, try starting with Who
Who is the sibling of Why.
They are interconnected and depend on one another.
You may argue that one is not more important than the other,
But I would argue that you can have a business without a Why.
You can’t have a business without a Who.
Inspired by Simon Sinek’s golden circle model, there’s a new circle - I call this the diamond encrusted circle.
By getting crystal clear on WHO we are solving a problem for, it becomes easy to ladder up and find our Why.
Do you believe in Starting with Who? Let me know in the comments below.
I Don’t Believe In Formulas Blue
I Don’t Believe In Formulas
There’s a lot of people out there selling formulas for brand and creativity.
I’m not a fan.
Advil is a formula.
WD-40 is a formula.
Coca-Cola is a formula.
A formula is repeatable with a specific, exact, REPEATED outcome.
Branding, writing, design…
No matter how much we try… cannot be reduced to a formula.
We work in FRAMEWORKS.
And while a process and an approach they are not formulas.
They do not give a precise answer.
Frameworks help us uncover truths, identify problems, and get to a desired answer (in a round about way).
But it’s never formulaic.
I believe in frameworks not formulas. Let me know what you think about frameworks vs. formulas in the comments below.
The Cracks In Your Hull White
The Cracks In Your Hull
Today’s hybrid digital and physical world is a real challenge for businesses.
There are about a bazillion touchpoints for your brand.
And showing up inconsistently across this landscape is a real problem.
One mistake or incongruent touchpoint isn’t going to sink your ship.
And in a silo these mistakes never look to be all that large.
But it’s the collective inconsistencies that are the cracks in your hull.
That will one day sink your business.
I can’t tell you when. But it will happen.
How do you manage to stay consistent across your brand? Let me know in the comments below.
Why Clients Pay More Blue
Why Clients Pay More
Is it because the work of a high priced agency is better than a lower priced agency?
Probably Not.
Is it because the people are smarter at a higher priced agency than a lower priced agency?
Hardly ever.
Is it because there is less perceived risk with a higher priced agency than a lower priced agency?
ABSOLUTELY.
Higher Rates ($$) = Peace of Mind
Clients pay more to mitigate risk.
That’s it.
Do you think clients pay more to reduce risk? Let me know in the comments below.
Branding Is About Selling Red
Branding Is About Selling
Branding Is About SELLING
That’s right.
Most people think branding is about logos, or websites, or promises.
But branding is about influencing the gut feel people have about your product or service.
Make no mistake
Branding is all about the $$$$.
Our modern day depiction of the beloved Santa in his red and white suit with rosy cheeks is a great example.
Before the 1930s Santa didn’t exist like this.
There were several mythological characters from different cultures like St. Nick, Sinterklaus, Papa Noel…
But not until Coca-Cola rebranded Santa in their brand colors to influence the sale of more sugar water… did Santa look like we know today.
Branding is all about selling. Let me know if you agree in the comments below.
Remember The Goal Black
Remember The Goal
When reviewing work and giving feedback it’s easy to get lost in minutia.
“Can you make it green?”
“What would this look like with a Gotham font?”
“Is “impact” really the right word?”
While all these details can matter…
This type of feedback isn’t always helpful.
What is helpful is to give feedback that references the business goal the creative is intended to solve.
Try thinking about WHY you’re even doing this in the first place.
Ask:
“Will this attract the customers we want to attract?”
“Will our desired audience get the desired impression we want?”
“What will the gut feeling of our customers be after interacting with this?”
These are the right questions to ask.
When in doubt, remember (and reference) the goal.
This will answer all unanswered questions.
Do you remember the goal in your feedback process? Let me know in the comments below.
There Can Be Only 1 White
There Can Be Only One
At the beginning of every engagement, before any of the work begins, there’s a super dooper important decision to be made…
Who will be the decider?
Who on the team will be the tie breaker?
Who on the team will the one to make the final decision to keep the process moving?
Getting input from the team is a MUST.
But if left unchecked, decision by committee can kill momentum and your brand.
Someone needs to be the decider.
Without a “decider” projects tend to drag on and turn into a meatball sundae of everyone’s ideas.
There can be only ONE.
Do you choose a decider in your engagements? How do you do it? Let me know in the comments below.
What’s The Truest Thing About Your Brand Blue
Find What’s True
Sometimes we over complicate all this brand stuff.
Often, all we need to ask is…
What’s the truest thing about your brand?
If I said “[your brand] is…” what would your prospective customers say?
Patagonia is...self-righteous activists.
Apple is… expensive.
Crocs are… ugly.
In the truth lies your opportunity.
Take that truth and then start to build communications around it.
If the world is already thinking it… don’t fight it.
Lean into the truth head on.
What is the truest thing about your brand? Let me know in the comments below.
You’ll Be Rewarded In Public Black
You’ll Be Rewarded in Public…
...For What You Do In Private.
No one ever sees the hustle.
No one ever sees the struggle.
No one ever sees you staring at a blank page thinking:
“I have no ideas left…”
All everyone ever sees is the finished product.
They see the polished presentation.
The well thought out YouTube video.
Your audience celebrates you in public.
For all the hard work you do in private.
What are you doing in private to be rewarded in public? Let me know in the comments below!
P.S. Do you like customers coming to YOU? My team and I are looking for a few businesses who want to differentiate themselves from their competitors and increase revenue using brand strategy. If you’re interested, message me the word “different”. Thanks.
Sell To The Believers Red
Sell to the Believers
There are a lot of people who DO NOT believe in what you are selling.
And no matter how much you educate them.
Or show them the light.
They’ll never believe.
Then there are those who already believe in what you do and what you are offering.
There are so many people who exhibit the attributes of someone who WILL believe in you with a little education.
Don't waste time selling to the non-believers.
Spend your time selling to the BELIEVERS.
They are waiting for you.
Now go find your believers.
Are you selling to non-believers who will never convert or are you focused on the believers? Let me know in the comments below.
Remember The Goal Black
Remember The Goal
When reviewing work and giving feedback it’s easy to get lost in minutia.
“Can you make it green?”
“What would this look like with a Gotham font?”
“Is “impact” really the right word?”
While all these details can matter…
This type of feedback isn’t always helpful.
What is helpful is to give feedback that references the business goal the creative is intended to solve.
Try thinking about WHY you’re even doing this in the first place.
Ask:
“Will this attract the customers we want to attract?”
“Will our desired audience get the desired impression we want?”
“What will the gut feeling of our customers be after interacting with this?”
These are the right questions to ask.
When in doubt, remember (and reference) the goal.
This will answer all unanswered questions.
Do you remember the goal in your feedback process? Let me know in the comments below.
There can Be Only 1 White
There Can Be Only One
At the beginning of every engagement, before any of the work begins, there’s a super dooper important decision to be made…
Who will be the decider?
Who on the team will be the tie breaker?
Who on the team will the one to make the final decision to keep the process moving?
Getting input from the team is a MUST.
But if left unchecked, decision by committee can kill momentum and your brand.
Someone needs to be the decider.
Without a “decider” projects tend to drag on and turn into a meatball sundae of everyone’s ideas.
There can be only ONE.
Do you choose a decider in your engagements? How do you do it? Let me know in the comments below.
TAM AdEx-Quarterly Report on Television Advertising_2024.pdf
According to the report, there was a 4% decrease in television advertising volumes compared to the same period in 2023, indicating shifts in advertising strategies or market dynamics.
More Related Content
More from Marc Gutman
Brand Is Like Golf White Underlines
Brand is like Golf.
The game of golf is a very simple premise.
Get the ball in the hole in as few strokes as possible.
It’s not more complicated than that.
But a lot of people become obsessed with the game.
And as such, there’s a tendency to go deep.
And spend a lifetime…
And for some people a fortune…
Trying to perfect that which is imperfectable…
Kinda like all this branding stuff…
Sometimes we just need to remember that this brand game is about getting the ball in the hole in as few strokes as possible.
Do you find yourself making the brand game more complicated than it needs to be? Let me know in the comments below.
Pride Google Sheets Easter Egg Green
PRIDE Google Sheets Easter Egg
Google is always doing cool things to support their community.
Since June is Pride month…
Google has inserted an awesome Easter Egg in Sheets.
1. Open Sheets
2. Write the word “PRIDE” in the columns.
Watch what happens!
I might start all of my Sheets like this going forward!
What do you think of Google’s Sheets Pride Easter Egg? Let me know in the comments below.
Burn Out Pink
Burn Out.
It’s real.
It happens to all of us.
It’s happening to me.
At first I thought I was unhappy and unfulfilled.
Then I realized I've just been working too hard.
Stretched too thin.
I need a break.
I’m planning on leaning into the summer, taking Friday’s off, and most importantly…
Not being so hard on myself.
How do you know you’re feeling the effects of burnout and what do you do to recharge? Let me know in the comments below.
What Do You Want to Be Known For Black
What Do You Want to Be Known For?
It’s a pretty easy question.
But so many people struggle with this one.
Admittedly I do from time to time as well.
But ask yourself,
“What Do I Want To Be Known For”
As a Brand…
As a Company…
As a Product…
As a Person…
Then put all your energy into making sure the rest of the world knows it too. What do you want to be known for? Let me know in the comments below.
Relax Ask Some Questions Pink
Relax.
Ask Some Questions.
When things get stressful.
When things are weird.
When things aren’t going the way you thought they would.
RELAX
Ask some questions
Ask WHY
Get curious
Questions open up doors to worlds and galaxies that were invisible seconds prior.
What are some of your favorite questions to ask when the going gets tough?
Let me know in the comments below.
Testing Doesn’t Work Black
Testing Doesn’t Work
Testing big ideas by its very nature is flawed.
To be clear I’m talking about focus groups, test groups, processes that score work before launch, etc when I say “testing”.
Testing looks for what’s wrong with an idea.
Not what’s right.
If you look at the most perfect anything long enough you’ll find flaws, imperfections, and reasons not to believe.
Testing suggests that people react logically and intellectually to branding.
As if they pass a brand and say “Gee… that product is psychologically and emotionally representing my unmet needs…”
Testing is flawed because no one really knows what will resonate until the idea and brand is out in the world. The real world.
Testing also assumes that we really know what makes branding work and it can always be quantified, measured, and analyzed.
I don’t think we can.
Do you think testing works? Let me know in the comments below.
Messaging White Line
Messaging
Is why most businesses fail to connect with customers.
Messaging...Shows value you offer.
Messaging...Show’s why you’re different.
Messaging...Is the reason customers choose you.
Messaging isn’t just what we say but HOW we say it.
Messaging that works doesn't focus on telling people what you do.
They probably know already.
The messaging that works for your brand highlights the value of what you do for your customer and how it’s different from the other options they have.
Messaging is the most important, but most overlooked, component of a brand.
Is your messaging doing its job for your brand? Let me know in the comments below.
When Companies Get It Right Green
When Companies Get Brand Right
They ask - “what business problem am I trying to solve?”
They seek the advice of a professional to guide them through the process.
They never stop branding. It's a fluid, ever evolving practice. It's an always-on function in your business.
Customers are demanding more for the companies they do business with. They care about what the business stands for and require that they back up the beliefs they put on a website.
Businesses that look to build communities as a cornerstone of their brand are winning.
Stop selling your product, features and benefits. Sell the story. Sell the feeling and experience your customer has with your brand.
Be willing to take risk and accept change as a part of being great.
Be different. Stand out. Find the white space. Own a position in your customer's mind.
When do you think companies get “brand” right? Let me know in the comments below.
Start With Who Black
Start with Who
Instead of starting with Why, try starting with Who
Who is the sibling of Why.
They are interconnected and depend on one another.
You may argue that one is not more important than the other,
But I would argue that you can have a business without a Why.
You can’t have a business without a Who.
Inspired by Simon Sinek’s golden circle model, there’s a new circle - I call this the diamond encrusted circle.
By getting crystal clear on WHO we are solving a problem for, it becomes easy to ladder up and find our Why.
Do you believe in Starting with Who? Let me know in the comments below.
I Don’t Believe In Formulas Blue
I Don’t Believe In Formulas
There’s a lot of people out there selling formulas for brand and creativity.
I’m not a fan.
Advil is a formula.
WD-40 is a formula.
Coca-Cola is a formula.
A formula is repeatable with a specific, exact, REPEATED outcome.
Branding, writing, design…
No matter how much we try… cannot be reduced to a formula.
We work in FRAMEWORKS.
And while a process and an approach they are not formulas.
They do not give a precise answer.
Frameworks help us uncover truths, identify problems, and get to a desired answer (in a round about way).
But it’s never formulaic.
I believe in frameworks not formulas. Let me know what you think about frameworks vs. formulas in the comments below.
The Cracks In Your Hull White
The Cracks In Your Hull
Today’s hybrid digital and physical world is a real challenge for businesses.
There are about a bazillion touchpoints for your brand.
And showing up inconsistently across this landscape is a real problem.
One mistake or incongruent touchpoint isn’t going to sink your ship.
And in a silo these mistakes never look to be all that large.
But it’s the collective inconsistencies that are the cracks in your hull.
That will one day sink your business.
I can’t tell you when. But it will happen.
How do you manage to stay consistent across your brand? Let me know in the comments below.
Why Clients Pay More Blue
Why Clients Pay More
Is it because the work of a high priced agency is better than a lower priced agency?
Probably Not.
Is it because the people are smarter at a higher priced agency than a lower priced agency?
Hardly ever.
Is it because there is less perceived risk with a higher priced agency than a lower priced agency?
ABSOLUTELY.
Higher Rates ($$) = Peace of Mind
Clients pay more to mitigate risk.
That’s it.
Do you think clients pay more to reduce risk? Let me know in the comments below.
Branding Is About Selling Red
Branding Is About Selling
Branding Is About SELLING
That’s right.
Most people think branding is about logos, or websites, or promises.
But branding is about influencing the gut feel people have about your product or service.
Make no mistake
Branding is all about the $$$$.
Our modern day depiction of the beloved Santa in his red and white suit with rosy cheeks is a great example.
Before the 1930s Santa didn’t exist like this.
There were several mythological characters from different cultures like St. Nick, Sinterklaus, Papa Noel…
But not until Coca-Cola rebranded Santa in their brand colors to influence the sale of more sugar water… did Santa look like we know today.
Branding is all about selling. Let me know if you agree in the comments below.
Remember The Goal Black
Remember The Goal
When reviewing work and giving feedback it’s easy to get lost in minutia.
“Can you make it green?”
“What would this look like with a Gotham font?”
“Is “impact” really the right word?”
While all these details can matter…
This type of feedback isn’t always helpful.
What is helpful is to give feedback that references the business goal the creative is intended to solve.
Try thinking about WHY you’re even doing this in the first place.
Ask:
“Will this attract the customers we want to attract?”
“Will our desired audience get the desired impression we want?”
“What will the gut feeling of our customers be after interacting with this?”
These are the right questions to ask.
When in doubt, remember (and reference) the goal.
This will answer all unanswered questions.
Do you remember the goal in your feedback process? Let me know in the comments below.
There Can Be Only 1 White
There Can Be Only One
At the beginning of every engagement, before any of the work begins, there’s a super dooper important decision to be made…
Who will be the decider?
Who on the team will be the tie breaker?
Who on the team will the one to make the final decision to keep the process moving?
Getting input from the team is a MUST.
But if left unchecked, decision by committee can kill momentum and your brand.
Someone needs to be the decider.
Without a “decider” projects tend to drag on and turn into a meatball sundae of everyone’s ideas.
There can be only ONE.
Do you choose a decider in your engagements? How do you do it? Let me know in the comments below.
What’s The Truest Thing About Your Brand Blue
Find What’s True
Sometimes we over complicate all this brand stuff.
Often, all we need to ask is…
What’s the truest thing about your brand?
If I said “[your brand] is…” what would your prospective customers say?
Patagonia is...self-righteous activists.
Apple is… expensive.
Crocs are… ugly.
In the truth lies your opportunity.
Take that truth and then start to build communications around it.
If the world is already thinking it… don’t fight it.
Lean into the truth head on.
What is the truest thing about your brand? Let me know in the comments below.
You’ll Be Rewarded In Public Black
You’ll Be Rewarded in Public…
...For What You Do In Private.
No one ever sees the hustle.
No one ever sees the struggle.
No one ever sees you staring at a blank page thinking:
“I have no ideas left…”
All everyone ever sees is the finished product.
They see the polished presentation.
The well thought out YouTube video.
Your audience celebrates you in public.
For all the hard work you do in private.
What are you doing in private to be rewarded in public? Let me know in the comments below!
P.S. Do you like customers coming to YOU? My team and I are looking for a few businesses who want to differentiate themselves from their competitors and increase revenue using brand strategy. If you’re interested, message me the word “different”. Thanks.
Sell To The Believers Red
Sell to the Believers
There are a lot of people who DO NOT believe in what you are selling.
And no matter how much you educate them.
Or show them the light.
They’ll never believe.
Then there are those who already believe in what you do and what you are offering.
There are so many people who exhibit the attributes of someone who WILL believe in you with a little education.
Don't waste time selling to the non-believers.
Spend your time selling to the BELIEVERS.
They are waiting for you.
Now go find your believers.
Are you selling to non-believers who will never convert or are you focused on the believers? Let me know in the comments below.
Remember The Goal Black
Remember The Goal
When reviewing work and giving feedback it’s easy to get lost in minutia.
“Can you make it green?”
“What would this look like with a Gotham font?”
“Is “impact” really the right word?”
While all these details can matter…
This type of feedback isn’t always helpful.
What is helpful is to give feedback that references the business goal the creative is intended to solve.
Try thinking about WHY you’re even doing this in the first place.
Ask:
“Will this attract the customers we want to attract?”
“Will our desired audience get the desired impression we want?”
“What will the gut feeling of our customers be after interacting with this?”
These are the right questions to ask.
When in doubt, remember (and reference) the goal.
This will answer all unanswered questions.
Do you remember the goal in your feedback process? Let me know in the comments below.
There can Be Only 1 White
There Can Be Only One
At the beginning of every engagement, before any of the work begins, there’s a super dooper important decision to be made…
Who will be the decider?
Who on the team will be the tie breaker?
Who on the team will the one to make the final decision to keep the process moving?
Getting input from the team is a MUST.
But if left unchecked, decision by committee can kill momentum and your brand.
Someone needs to be the decider.
Without a “decider” projects tend to drag on and turn into a meatball sundae of everyone’s ideas.
There can be only ONE.
Do you choose a decider in your engagements? How do you do it? Let me know in the comments below.
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According to the report, there was a 4% decrease in television advertising volumes compared to the same period in 2023, indicating shifts in advertising strategies or market dynamics.
Top 10 AI Trends to Watch in 2024 with Intelisync
As we advance further into the digital age, artificial intelligence (AI) continues to evolve, shaping various industries and aspects of our daily lives. The advancements in AI for 2024 promise significant transformations across multiple sectors. From agentic AI and open-source AI to AI-powered cybersecurity and sustainability, these trends highlight the growing influence of AI on our world. By staying informed and embracing these trends, businesses and individuals can harness the power of AI to innovate and thrive.
This article explores the top 10 AI trends to watch in 2024, providing an overview, impact, and examples of each trend.
Top 10 AI Trends to Watch in 2024
Trend 1: Agentic AI
Overview of Agentic AI
Agentic AI represents a fundamental shift in artificial intelligence. These AI systems are designed to comprehend complex workflows and pursue difficult objectives autonomously, with minimal human assistance. Essentially, agentic AI functions similarly to human employees, understanding intricate contexts and instructions in normal language, defining goals, deducing subtasks, and adapting actions to changing circumstances.
Impact of Agentic AI
Agentic AI has the potential to drastically alter organizational roles, procedures, and relationships. AI assistants with advanced thinking and planning capabilities can perform tasks previously managed by humans. This shift enhances productivity by fully automating complex processes, freeing workers from repetitive tasks to focus on more critical activities. The ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances ensures continuous operational improvements.
Examples and Use Cases of Agentic AI
Autonomous Vehicles: Self-driving cars use agentic AI to navigate roads, interpret traffic signals, and make real-time decisions to ensure passenger safety.
Smart Home Devices: AI-powered home assistants, like smart thermostats and security systems, operate autonomously to optimize energy usage and enhance security.
Customer Service Bots: Advanced chatbots handle complex customer queries, provide solutions, and escalate issues to human agents when necessary.
Trend 2: Open Source AI
Overview of Open Source AI
Open-source AI involves freely available source code, encouraging developers to collaborate, use, adapt, and share AI technology. This openness fosters innovation and speeds up the development of practical AI solutions across various sectors, including healthcare, finance, and education.
Impact of Open Source AI
The collaborative nature of open-source AI promotes transparency and facilitates continuous improvement, leading to feature-rich, reliable, and modular solutions. These platforms enable the creation of applications such as real-time fraud detection, medical image analysis, personalized recommendations, and customized learning experiences.
Examples and Use Cases of Open Source AI
TensorFlow: An open-source machine learning framework by Google, widely used for building and deploying AI models.
How to Generate Add to Calendar Link using Cal.et
Cal.et is a free tool that helps you create “Add to Calendar” links for your events. It supports popular calendar platforms like Google, Apple, Outlook, Yahoo, and Office365. Users can generate short, shareable URLs, customize event details, and even create QR codes for easy access. It’s ideal for embedding event links in emails, websites, and social media, making it easier for participants to save event information directly to their calendars.
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一比一原版英国南安普顿大学毕业证（Soton学位证）如何办理
原件一模一样【微信：WP101A】【英国南安普顿大学毕业证（Soton学位证）学位证）成绩单】【微信：WP101A】（留信学历认证永久存档查询）采用学校原版纸张、特殊工艺完全按照原版一比一制作（包括：隐形水印，阴影底纹，钢印LOGO烫金烫银，LOGO烫金烫银复合重叠，文字图案浮雕，激光镭射，紫外荧光，温感，复印防伪）行业标杆！精益求精，诚心合作，真诚制作！多年品质 ,按需精细制作，24小时接单,全套进口原装设备，十五年致力于帮助留学生解决难题，业务范围有加拿大、英国、澳洲、韩国、美国、新加坡，新西兰等学历材料，包您满意。
【业务选择办理准则】
一、工作未确定，回国需先给父母、亲戚朋友看下文凭的情况，办理一份就读学校的毕业证【微信：WP101A】文凭即可
二、回国进私企、外企、自己做生意的情况，这些单位是不查询毕业证真伪的，而且国内没有渠道去查询国外文凭的真假，也不需要提供真实教育部认证。鉴于此，办理一份毕业证【微信：WP101A】即可
三、进国企，银行，事业单位，考公务员等等，这些单位是必需要提供真实教育部认证的，办理教育部认证所需资料众多且烦琐，所有材料您都必须提供原件，我们凭借丰富的经验，快捷的绿色通道帮您快速整合材料，让您少走弯路。
留信网认证的作用:
1:该专业认证可证明留学生真实身份【微信：WP101A】
2:同时对留学生所学专业登记给予评定
3:国家专业人才认证中心颁发入库证书
4:这个认证书并且可以归档倒地方
5:凡事获得留信网入网的信息将会逐步更新到个人身份内，将在公安局网内查询个人身份证信息后，同步读取人才网入库信息
6:个人职称评审加20分
7:个人信誉贷款加10分
8:在国家人才网主办的国家网络招聘大会中纳入资料，供国家高端企业选择人才
→ 【关于价格问题（保证一手价格）
我们所定的价格是非常合理的，而且我们现在做得单子大多数都是代理和回头客户介绍的所以一般现在有新的单子 我给客户的都是第一手的代理价格，因为我想坦诚对待大家 不想跟大家在价格方面浪费时间
对于老客户或者被老客户介绍过来的朋友，我们都会适当给一些优惠。
选择实体注册公司办理，更放心，更安全！我们的承诺：可来公司面谈，可签订合同，会陪同客户一起到教育部认证窗口递交认证材料，客户在教育部官方认证查询网站查询到认证通过结果后付款，不成功不收费！
办理英国南安普顿大学毕业证（Soton学位证）学位证）学位证【微信：WP101A 】外观非常精致，由特殊纸质材料制成，上面印有校徽、校名、毕业生姓名、专业等信息。
办理英国南安普顿大学毕业证（Soton学位证）学位证）学位证【微信：WP101A 】格式相对统一，各专业都有相应的模板。通常包括以下部分：
校徽：象征着学校的荣誉和传承。
校名:学校英文全称
授予学位：本部分将注明获得的具体学位名称。
毕业生姓名：这是最重要的信息之一，标志着该证书是由特定人员获得的。
颁发日期：这是毕业正式生效的时间，也代表着毕业生学业的结束。
其他信息：根据不同的专业和学位，可能会有一些特定的信息或章节。
办理英国南安普顿大学毕业证（Soton学位证）学位证）学位证【微信：WP101A 】价值很高，需要妥善保管。一般来说，应放置在安全、干燥、防潮的地方，避免长时间暴露在阳光下。如需使用，最好使用复印件而不是原件，以免丢失。
综上所述，办理英国南安普顿大学毕业证（Soton学位证）学位证）学位证【微信：WP101A 】是证明身份和学历的高价值文件。外观简单庄重，格式统一，包括重要的个人信息和发布日期。对持有人来说，妥善保管是非常重要的。
Snapshot of Consumer Behaviors of May 2024-EOLiSurvey (EN).pdf
PARTⅠ: Intension of cooking or dining out under the influence of food safety issues
PARTⅡ: New consuming behavior following up
E-Learning Vs Traditional Learning_ Benefits and Differences.pdf
E-learning and traditional learning are two distinct approaches to education, each offering unique advantages and facing specific challenges. E-learning provides flexibility and convenience, allowing students to access materials and complete assignments at their own pace and schedule. Traditional learning fosters direct, face-to-face interaction between students and instructors, which can enhance communication, immediate feedback, and a sense of community.
原版制作(Sunderland毕业证书)桑德兰大学毕业证录取通知书一模一样
学校原件一模一样【微信：741003700 】《(Sunderland毕业证书)桑德兰大学毕业证》【微信：741003700 】学位证，留信认证（真实可查，永久存档）原件一模一样纸张工艺/offer、雅思、外壳等材料/诚信可靠,可直接看成品样本，帮您解决无法毕业带来的各种难题！外壳，原版制作，诚信可靠，可直接看成品样本。行业标杆！精益求精，诚心合作，真诚制作！多年品质 ,按需精细制作，24小时接单,全套进口原装设备。十五年致力于帮助留学生解决难题，包您满意。
本公司拥有海外各大学样板无数，能完美还原。
1:1完美还原海外各大学毕业材料上的工艺：水印，阴影底纹，钢印LOGO烫金烫银，LOGO烫金烫银复合重叠。文字图案浮雕、激光镭射、紫外荧光、温感、复印防伪等防伪工艺。材料咨询办理、认证咨询办理请加学历顾问Q/微741003700
【主营项目】
一.毕业证【q微741003700】成绩单、使馆认证、教育部认证、雅思托福成绩单、学生卡等！
二.真实使馆公证(即留学回国人员证明,不成功不收费)
三.真实教育部学历学位认证（教育部存档！教育部留服网站永久可查）
四.办理各国各大学文凭(一对一专业服务,可全程监控跟踪进度)
如果您处于以下几种情况：
◇在校期间，因各种原因未能顺利毕业……拿不到官方毕业证【q/微741003700】
◇面对父母的压力，希望尽快拿到；
◇不清楚认证流程以及材料该如何准备；
◇回国时间很长，忘记办理；
◇回国马上就要找工作，办给用人单位看；
◇企事业单位必须要求办理的
◇需要报考公务员、购买免税车、落转户口
◇申请留学生创业基金
留信网认证的作用:
1:该专业认证可证明留学生真实身份
2:同时对留学生所学专业登记给予评定
3:国家专业人才认证中心颁发入库证书
4:这个认证书并且可以归档倒地方
5:凡事获得留信网入网的信息将会逐步更新到个人身份内，将在公安局网内查询个人身份证信息后，同步读取人才网入库信息
6:个人职称评审加20分
7:个人信誉贷款加10分
8:在国家人才网主办的国家网络招聘大会中纳入资料，供国家高端企业选择人才
From Subreddits To Search: Maximizing Your Brand's Impact On Reddit
The search landscape is undergoing a seismic shift, and Reddit is at the epicenter. Google's Helpful Content Update and its $60 million deal with Reddit, coupled with OpenAI's partnership, have catapulted Reddit's real-time content to unprecedented heights.
Check out this insightful webinar exploring the newfound importance of Reddit in the digital marketing landscape. Learn how these changes make Reddit an essential platform for getting your brand and content in front of evolving search audiences.
You’ll hear:
- The evolution of Reddit as a major influencer on SERPS over the years.
- The impact of recent changes and partnerships on Reddit’s place in search.
- A comprehensive look at Reddit, how it works, and how to approach it.
- Unique engagement opportunities presented by Reddit.
With Brent Csutoras, a Reddit expert with over 18 years of experience on the platform, we’ll delve into the intricacies of Reddit's communities, known as Subreddits, and how to leverage their power without compromising authenticity or violating community guidelines in the age of AI-driven search experiences.
Don't miss this opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and leverage Reddit for your brand's success.
Digital Marketing Company in India - DIGI Brooks
This infographic provides guidance on marketing analytics, helping businesses grow using tools like Google Analytics and AI, measuring ROI, and analysing future trends to track business development.
https://digibrooks.com/digital-marketing-services/
HEM Webinar - Navigating the Future - Social Media Trends for 2024 in Educati...
HEM Webinar - Navigating the Future - Social Media Trends for 2024 in Educati...Higher Education Marketing
Explore our comprehensive slides on the 2024 social media landscape, tailored for educators and marketing professionals in the field of education. With more than 5 billion social media users worldwide and an average individual engagement across as many as seven platforms monthly, understanding these dynamics is crucial for effective educational outreach. Our slides delve into the pivotal trends and strategic adaptations necessary for thriving in this digital arena. Don't miss this opportunity to enhance your strategies with our expert insights.Advanced Storytelling Concepts for Marketers
Every marketer knows you’re supposed to tell a story, but do you know how to tell a story? Do you know why you’re supposed to tell a story? Do you even truly know what a story is? While many marketing presentations emphasize the value of mythic storytelling, the nuts and bolts of actually constructing a story are never explored.
The goal of marketing may be to achieve specific KPIs that drive sales, which is very objective, but the top of the marketing funnel requires a softer approach. In our data-driven results-oriented fast-paced world, marketers must quantify results, but those results will never be achieved unless prospects are first approached with humanity.
There is a common misunderstanding that the so-called “soft skills” of marketing such as language and art are unmeasurable and subjective, but while the objective measures of market research are merely 100 years old, the rules of aesthetics have been perfected over the last 2,500 years.
Great story construction is a skill that requires significant knowledge and practice. This presentation will be a review of the ancient art of story construction.
We will discuss:
• Rhetoric – The art of effective communication
• The Socratic Method – You cannot teach, but you can persuade people to learn
• Plato’s Cave – You sell products, but you market ideas
• Aristotle’s Six Dramatic Elements – The secret recipe for marketing stories
This is for senior marketers who are tasked with creating effective narratives or guiding others in the process. By the end of the session, attendees will have gained the knowledge needed to work storytelling into all phases of the buyer’s journey.
Embark on style journeys Indian clothing store denver guide.pptx
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How to Start Affiliate Marketing with ChatGPT- A Step-by-Step Guide (1).pdf
Discover the power of affiliate marketing with ChatGPT! This comprehensive guide takes you through the process of starting and scaling your affiliate marketing business using the latest AI technology. Learn how to leverage ChatGPT to generate content ideas, create engaging articles, and connect with your audience through personalized interactions. From building your strategy and optimizing conversions to analyzing performance and staying updated with industry trends, this eBook provides everything you need to know to succeed in affiliate marketing. Whether you're a beginner looking to start your online business or an experienced marketer wanting to take your efforts to the next level, this guide is your roadmap to success in the world of affiliate marketing.
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