Previously, we noted that content marketing is hardly a new methodology. Its origins trace back to the late 1800s, but it certainly has evolved as technology and access have made it possible for just about anyone to claim and prove authority and expertise. But it takes well-researched personas to create successful content. In looking at […]
Drew McLellan
Trends in Content Marketing
Content marketing is not new. It has its origins back in the late 1800s, but for most of us, it became apparent during the infomercial era. There have always been trends in content marketing. If you’re 40+, you might remember the Tony Robbins infomercials. They were thirty minutes of TV programming that was a blend […]
Take a Stand
How consumers interact with the companies they do business with, and their expectations of us evolve and are a direct reflection of our culture and core beliefs as human beings. That could not be more evident than today. A study (it’s done every year) called the Edelman Earned Brand Study is one of the most comprehensive pieces […]
Delivering Bad News
It’s inevitable. We are going to screw up and have to share that with our customers, prospects and in many cases, with our employees or teammates. That we will have to do it is a given. But there’s quite a bit of latitude in how we do it. In the latest security breach at Facebook, […]
You’re Not Going Crazy
Have you ever been watching TV while simultaneously playing a game or surfing the web on your phone and suddenly it feels like everywhere you look there’s an ad for the same product? For example, you just heard (because you were looking down at your phone) a TV spot for the latest Toyota vehicle and […]
Should Your Brand Take a Stand?
Almost a year ago, Nike released a “just do it” ad campaign for their 30th anniversary featuring Colin Kaepernick, the football player at the center of the “taking a knee” controversy in the NFL. The reaction to the campaign was immediate and loud. The media exploded, social media couldn’t get enough of it, politicians tweeted […]
Don’t Forget to Check In
I am not a fan of the restaurant manager check-in trend that seems to be the rage these days. I like the concept—a manager who is genuinely concerned with their customer’s experience but the execution leaves me wanting. I think my reaction is a negative one because it feels abrupt and insincere. There’s no context […]
The Upside to a Recession
When we talk about a recession, we don’t usually tell happy tales. We talk about struggles, cutbacks, and loss. If you were old enough to be in the workforce, own a home or business in that 2007-2010 season, you remember the challenges that we all faced, personally or professionally. But from a marketing perspective, I […]
Load Up Your Bookshelf
I’ve been working in marketing and advertising since the mid-80s. When I started my career, I thought I had a lot to learn. It was nothing compared to what we all need to learn today. Technology is driving the rate of change, and even though it’s hard to believe, it’s going to get nothing but […]
Is Your Content Following the Trend?
Most businesses have accepted or even embraced the idea that without creating content, your website can’t hope to compete for search engine rankings, high visitor counts, or much engagement. There are just too many sites out there fighting for the same eyeballs that you want. If you don’t put something appealing and fresh in front […]
