Advertising

The advertising world is pretty fun.  I have done everything from TV to large scale web sites to brochures and direct mail.  Everyone and every business wants their materials to be seen by the customers.  How do you do this?  It's not easy and it is generally not very comfortable for the client.  One of my mentors, Dayne Hanna, told a client something that I will never forget.  He said, "If the creative did not make him feel a little uncomfortable then it probably won't work."  I am probably not quoting verbatum but the concept is there.

What he meant was that if you always produce "safe" creative for your advertising campaings then you will probably not be heard or seen.  In today's marketplace you need to do something different so people will remember you.  I think this is why the Superbowl ads are so much fun.  You never know what is going to happen with the next commercial.

Bottom line is that you should feel a little nervous about what you are doing.

Branding

How important is branding your company?

Think about how many companies there are in just your city alone.  Then think about how many cities there are in the world.  That is a lot of businesses.  Drive down any major street in any decent size city and you will be inundated with advertising.  Think about all the brands you can remember.

Consistency is king in the advertising world.  Every point of customer contact needs to emulate your brand.  It does not matter how big or small your company is either.  Social media is just one piece of the puzzle that helps your company gain brand recognition and in the end...customers.