Insight on Business with Michael Libbie airs Monday - Thursday here at Webcast One LIVE. But, that doesn't mean that we want you to miss a day...so we've created "The Stuff We See". Each Friday afternoon we'll post "The Stuff We See" so you can see it...too.
This week Max Crabb, our producer for Insight on Business, said we should check out his favorite new sushi joint...Happi Sushi:
Phouthasone "Poody" Simahano is Happi Sushi and you'll find him, and his family, in the Kaleidoscope Mall downtown Des Moines. Open Monday - Friday from 11am - 2pm. You want "take out"? No problem: 515-664-9390. You can also get a "Happi Meal" their "combo" comes with miso soup, fruit and...seaweed salad.
Welcome to Insight on Business with Michael Libbie our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends. We're live starting today at Noon Central and you can view the show (and later re-broadcast) here at Webcast One LIVE. Because the program is interactive we can continue the conversation before, during and after the show on Twitter @MichaelLibbie or while we're live by using "The Chat". Here is the show complete with me fumbling for the mic.
Kathie Obradovich, the chief political columnist for the Des Moines Register, joins us for the hour. No one in Iowa knows the political climate better than Obradovich who has been covering politics for over 20 years. She was the lead editor of the award winning Iowa Poll which was thrown into national prominence by predicting a Barack Obama win in the 2008 Iowa Caucus. When David Yepsen left the Register for a gig at the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University the well read, well informed Obradovich was the natural choice. When she took the job Kathie said, "My passion is helping Iowans to engage with their government to make a difference." We'll ask her about her efforts, the political/business climate in Iowa and her impression of what we have dubbed the "Silly Season". Kathie Obradovich with Insight on Business...
In other stories:
It's all in the timing. That's a key to any successful marketing campaign and on Tuesday, just a week before the elections, Iowa Auditor David Vaudt released his report on Iowa's film tax credit program which Governor Culver halted in September of 2009. Vaudt, who is perhaps the most political of his predecessors, joining Terry Branstad on the campaign trail and issuing an incomplete audit of the state finances that could have marred Iowa's credit rating had completed this work back in August. Releasing the report to the press seven days before the election... Um....
Don't you love the "Silly Season"?
And, because it's Thursday it is also the day we reveal The Worst Ad of the Week. We have scoured the files and have another great example of what should never happen in advertising. Nominations this week included this clever ad from the Oil Industry. Just to prove to you that poor taste knows no time-line somebody at Shell thought salad and crude oil made a great combination. From 1947...Click on the photo to enlarge.
And, it wasn't this local ad for a funeral home and the romantic notion that giving the gift of a pre-planned funeral to your valentine is a great idea. I know the message is about decisions but still....Yikes!
Nope...they didn't make the cut. But a video about a divorce attorney did...you are going to love it. Hang on we'll show you toward the end of the hour. OK we won't keep you in suspense. Here is the WORST AD OF THE WEEK! Why..if you have to ask. ;-)
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends. You can see the show live by heading to Webcast One LIVE today at Noon Central. We'll also post the show later in the day. Because it is interactive we're interested in your comments, questions and...answers. You can do that on Twitter @MichaelLibbie before, during or after the show or on "The Chat" during the show.
Our special in studio guest is Steve SchraderBachar from Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. You might remember that name. He is the fellow who invited me to Ankeny, Iowa for a presentation on using social media to build a personal and professional brand. He'll be in to talk about his two books, the overall market and how he uses social media MortgageMinuteto make personal connections. Steve SchraderBachar today with Insight on Business.
There are some shocking predictions about the future of retail coming from our friends at The Nielsen Company. They have looked at the changes in consumer shopping habits and suggest what changes might be coming to your neighborhood by 2015. Want to learn more? We'll talk about it and run down the list of "game changers for retail" today...first thing. Here is just one of the predictions: "Pet Stores will increase." Were we just talking about this last week? Join us at Noon!
Procter & Gamble has a unique marketing campaign in the works - "Have you tried this yet?" is the new line P&G is using in North America to push specific product awareness. An amazing stat: 99% of all homes in North America already use at least one P&G product but, according to the company, "...there is still more market available and that's why we're asking the question." What can your business learn from this giant? We'll talk about it.
Remember when we told you to focus on two words in your marketing campaign? Over a year ago, based on consumer trends, we said that if you can find a way to incorporate the words "trust" and "value" into your general campaign you will touch more shoppers with a message they are searching for. Here is an example of a company, ConAgra, and their new tag line for Banquet Foods: "So good for so little." See, there are tiny ways in which you can relate and it doesn't take much. However in this case ConAgra is spending millions in print, radio and television. What's your take?
That's it...much more to talk about but need to get this to YOU. Steve SchraderBachar with Insight on Business a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing and Communications and brought to you by:
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Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Thursday visit into the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends that takes off at Noon Central here at Webcast One LIVE! Today we're going to be showing you a re-broadcast of a show because I've traveled to Ankeny, Iowa to visit with the Ankeny Rotary Clubat the invitation of my friend Steve SchraderBacher of Wells Fargo Home Mortgage.
Thanks for the invite!
What are the folks there going to learn:
Personal and Professional Branding - What it is...and isn't
Media Planning - Gotta Have a Road Map
Hyper-Listening to Consumers - Why and How
Social Media for Business - Another Marketing Tool
Should be loads of fun. IF you happen to be in the Ankeny Rotary and you are NOT coming to the event...shame, shame. I'm leaving the broadcast just to be with you...and to help your business...grow.
See you in a bit.
We'll be back with a brand new show for Insight on Business tomorrow. Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is a production of our Advertising Agency: Insight Advertising, Marketing and Communications and made possible by:
NatraTurf - Now is the time to take care of your lawn and garden and do it naturally. Learn more at www.NatraTurf.com
Lotus Moments - For wedding invitations and business announcements that are as different as...you. www.LotusMoments.com
Exceptional Specialty Products - Let Cindy Taylor help your business get noticed. Read more about how and what...right here.
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends. We're live today at Noon Central here at Webcast One LIVE and because it's a conversation I invite you to join us while the show is in progress by using "The Chat" or before, during and after the show on Twitter @MichaelLibbie.
Today is Monday - Metro Monday when we take a look at issues a little closer to home. Even so, we promise you a nugget or two that you can take to your business, no matter where you're at.
Governor Chet Culver - Business and Politics...they go "hand and glove"; who Iowa selects as their CEO will form the future for decades. That's why we have joined with the Des Moines Register and media outlets by endorsing Governor Chet Culver for a second term. Faced with major natural disasters and coming into office during the worst national recession since the Great Depression Culver has guided this state well. Wall Street 24/7 lists Iowa as the Third Best Run State in the Nation. Forbes says Iowa is a great place for business. The Green Industry has found a home in Iowa with wind energy and our friends in technology have found our people and our policies match their goal for growth. In other words, Iowa is moving forward beyond the policies of the past. We caught up with Governor Culver yesterday. Why should Iowans give Chet Culver a second term?
Makes sense to us...
On the show today we're going to visit with Tanya Keith the owner of Simply for Gigglesa children's speciality store in the East Village of Des Moines. We'll talk about the economy, what she has been experiencing in sales, what works and what doesn't. We'll talk about the good ideas and those that still need some work. And...get this...we'll also visit about her role as a Roller Derby woman. Yes...Roller Derby! Keith is a "blocker" with the Mid-Iowa Rollers. Who would have thought? Wife, Mom, Business Owner and Roller Derby Queen? Loads of fun today with my friend and small business owner of Simply for Giggles...Tanya Keith with Insight on Business.
There's some great news for the Metro; it looks like we'll see some development on the old Younker's Department Store which has sat empty since 2005. Every day on my walk to the Webcast One LIVE studio I pass what was once the centerpiece of the Younker's chain and hoped for restoration. The deal, should it go through will be a big boost the the center of the city by providing housing and retail. The Des Moines City Council meets tonight to decide the fate tied to incentive packages. Here is the story from the Des Moines Register.
A quick program note - Tomorrow (Tuesday) we're going to show a re-run of Insight on Business. I have the opportunity to do a speech at the Ankeny Rotary Club on advertising, marketing and social media...and while I'd love to figure out a way to be in two places at the same time... We'll be back LIVE on Wednesday. Insight on Business is a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications and made possible by:
NatraTurf - Now you can create a great lawn and garden without all the chemicals. Learn more - www.NatraTurf.com
Lotus Moments - A family owned business that rocks when it comes to wedding invitations and business announcements - www.LotusMoments.com
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing, business and consumer trends. You'll find us here at Webcast One Live starting at Noon Central. And, because it's interactive you can join us live in "The Chat" or on Twitter, I monitor @MichaelLibbie before, during and after the show. Here is the show from today, links are all below.
In other stories:
SEX Sells... But you already knew that right? We're talking about Sex.com the URL that is reportedly going to be sold off for $13 million. Nope...it's not to us. According to this story by Brenna Ehrlich, PETA didn't get it but, a group called Clover Holdings won the bidding war. We keep telling you that sex sells...
How about marketing to folks that HAVE money? Now there is a novel thought. Many business owners spend lots of time and their own money trying to chase...everybody. But maybe, if your product or service warrants, you should spend your time (and money) marketing to the demographic that grew by over 10.5% in two years...those households making $250,000 or more. But...realize there is a way to do it...and a way to screw it up. We'll give you solid tips on "Reaching the Rich" today in the first fifteen minutes of the show.
And, of course it's Thursday which means it's time for "The Worst Ad of the Week". Each week we scour the advertising world to bring to you the nominations. And, viewers have also been sending in their recommendations or nominees. Come on by during the final ten minutes of the show to see what we've come up with this week. Here is a of worthy mention:
Our friends over at Iowa State Bank have gotten a little "creative" in their new billboard campaign. As you know, these things are NOT CHEAP...billboards are some of the highest cost advertising items based on "cost per thousand". You've not only got the creative but also the printing plus the monthly rental. It all adds up. That's why when we received this nomination for Worst Ad of the Week we had to agree. Why? This could have been done so much better with different images (from maybe 1941), and much more on message. We don't get to that until we see the small lettering. Cute...but "too cute"?
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Lotus Moments - For wedding invitations to business announcements...be different: www.LotusMoments.com
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All of this and: We've got Billie Sucher in studio. Billie is a returning guest who talks about jobs. Getting a job, keeping a job, finding a job...you get the idea. Here is a link to her site. Today we're visiting about those things as well as a disturbing trend we, and she, have noticed: The snarky comments directed to job seekers by HR "professionals" and....because we want to be fair, some real life examples of what and how some job seekers present themselves during interviews. Nobody knows this stuff like Billie and we're pleased to have her back. Billie Sucher...today with Insight on Business.
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Thursday look at the world of consumers. What marketing works, what advertising ideas shine...and those that don't do so well. What is the stuff that customers want and how can you deliver. We're on today at Noon Central here at Webcast One Live. And, because the show is interactive you can join us in "The Chat" or we can connect on Twitter, I monitor @MichaelLibbie before, during and after the show.
Today:
Speaking of politics: Last week my bride ordered an absentee ballot it arrived yesterday. Two day service here in Polk County...Jamie Fitzgerald, we're impressed. Meanwhile, forget the robo-calls. I voted early yesterday at the Urbandale Public Library. It was a busy place at 4:00PM. Now all I have to do is master that "vote often" part and we're in.
Pet News - Even in what many call "tough economic times" we're spending more and more on our pets. Global pet food sales are scheduled to increase by over 2.4% this year. Why? It's called "Pet Humanization" where sales of pet foods are three times that of human baby food. Oh in China? They expect their pet food market to grow by 5%...wonder if that includes Melamine Products? (Snark...) Meanwhile PetSmart share value has increased by, are you ready...31% so far in 2010. Can you spell "Recession Proof"? And, to cap off Pet News" there is now a new iPhone app that monitors calorie intake and weight of your pet. It's called CU-PetHealth. Now..you know it all! So, what can you DO with all this information? I'll share today at Noon!
Those stories and the Drake Law Students today with Insight on Business. Insight on Business is a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing and Communications and made possible by:
NatraTurf - Fall is a great time to start going, natural, with your lawn and garden: www.NatraTurf.com
Lotus Moments - For wedding announcements and business printing you'll really like: www.LotusMoments.com
In studio today we welcome law students from Drake University who are passionate about their careers and their politics. I don't do politics...but they do and we're going to "pick their brains" about why, are they scared about the future, what they are doing to make a difference in this election cycle and how in the world do they have the time. With us is today is Colleen MacRae and Brad Hopkins. Join us for a younger view of life, education and politics today at Noon Central. It's the "Silly Season" and we can't ignore what consumers are consuming.
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends. You can watch live starting at Noon Central here at Webcast One LIVE or hang out and wait for the re-broadcast later in the day. Because the show is interactive you can connect with us before during or after the program on Twitter: @MichaelLibbie or during the show you can use "The Chat" for comments, questions...or answers. Thanks for coming by!
Remember when we talked about the importance of your personal brand? Remember when we talked about saying one thing and doing another? We've seen some pretty amazing representations during this election cycle. It seems like all the gloves are off. Voters should be able to see beyond the "silly"...I would hope. When I heard the Kent Sorenson ad about "heated sidewalks" I knew it was way off base. Now it seems he has some personal branding issues that he wishes...he didn't have. Here is the article from the Des Moines Register. You can run...but hiding is tough. There will be spin...
The importance of nostalgia triggers and the consumer: Years ago, while building fence at our place, we kept our horses on the "main farm" four miles "up the road". Each morning at dawn I'd jump in the pickup to go feed. With me was a cup of coffee and a fresh toasted peanut butter sandwich. Today I had a toasted peanut butter sandwich at the office...and you know what I thought of. Your lesson is this: What positive memory does your consumer target have and how can you use the media to trigger a positive response? Let's talk about that?
Isaiah Mustafa is back with a new ad...that looks a bit like the "Old Spice Bodywash" hit but is for Windows 7. Can he break out of the mold he created for himself and be as effective here? We've got our doubts that lightning can strike twice...but you tell us? Here is the ad running in Australia:
So, your thoughts?
Hanging on to some technology for a moment: Have you seen the new video from Pantless Knights? The one that is a parody of the Michael Jackson "Beat It"? This is called "Tweet It" and it's a well done piece...that took loads of practice, acting and...money. But...who paid for it and why? The answer is Seed Well. We'll show you the four-minute clip today and get your input.
While we're on what might appear to be "spoof ads" or messages here is something we THOUGHT was a spoof but...it's the real thing. The ad is for MsTaken.com where you can buy a fake engagement ring...just in case. I will NOT spare you the video...here you go.
What you need to pay attention to is the way the ad is done and how it looks. Goofy? Sure but they have gone to the expense of actors, various locations. All to sell a $29 ring. I know you want to check it out so here is the link to www.MsTaken.com see...
Thinking about using Facebook for business? For promoting what you sell or service? How can you gain traction? How does Facebook work? What resonates with consumers? We'll share this article from The Daily Beast. Pay attention kids...
That's it. Tomorrrow our guests are some students from the Drake Law School and on Thursday professional job coach Billie Sucher re-joins the program. Insight on Business is a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications and brought to you by:
NatraTurf - Now you can help save the planet...by what you do at home. www.NatraTurf.com
Exceptional Specialty Products - Getting noticed IS important...right? Have a look!
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing, consumer trends and best business practices. You can watch the show live at Noon Central here at Webcast One LIVE or we'll post the re-broadcast later in the day. Today is Monday...Metro Monday...when we focus on things a little closer to home but, we promise you you'll be able to use these nuggets no matter where you hang your hat. And, because the show is interactive you can join us in "The Chat" or hook up on Twitter - I monitor @MichaelLibbie before, during and after the show.
In other stories:
Last week I did something really silly...I called into a local talk radio program. I had been listening to people bash the economy, bash Iowa, bash local and state officials and give bad information through talking points picked up from who knows where. I'm thinking to myself...are these people serious or just serious nut jobs? Is political talk radio about the message or the money? We'll talk about it.
Congratulations to the University of Northern Iowa, recently recognized as one of the top business schools in the nation. The "Best 300 Business Schools" is a report issued by Princeton and this is the fifth consecutive year UNI has made the list.
Put the word "sex" into any discussion and folks pay attention. Recently a new group called Fair Courts for Us started running radio commercials urging voters to retain the three Iowa Supreme Court Justices who ruled that banning gay marriage in Iowa is unconstitutional. Members include former Governor Robert Ray and former Lt. Governor Art Neu an former First Lady, Christie Vilsack. Another interesting member of the group is Dan Moore, campaign secretary and treasurer for Bob Vander Plaats for Governor. Vander Plaats was defeated in the Republican Primary by Terry Branstad and now is heading up the campaign to remove the three justices. Confused yet? We'll help you sort it out...
Two economic stories for you: CNNMoney says that last month's rise in retail sales is also raising hopes that holiday sales will improve over 2009. September retail sales were up 0.6% which is higher than the 0.4% projected by economists. Cars, electronics and online stores led the September rise. Meanwhile, the Des Moines Register had a story about increased business for the Iowa automobile dealers who lost their GM and/or Chrysler nameplates. "Business is good" seems to be the three words that dominate the story. You can read it yourself...right here.
We'll have these stories, the stocks, your comments, questions and Micholyn Fajen today with Insight on Business a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing and Communications and brought to you by:
NatraTurf - Now is the time to spread HydroSave the all natural way to care for your lawn or garden. Learn more at www.NatraTurf.com
Lotus Moments - For wedding invitations and business announcements that are as unique as...you - www.LotusMoments.com
Exceptional Specialty Products - Let Cindy Taylor help your company get noticed: For More about Exceptional Speciality Products.
See you...LIVE at Noon Central...thanks for coming by.
As more and more people give up the "Cubicle Life", by choice or by direction, some turn to opening their own business or...freelancing. This week Freelance Camp 2010 hits Des Moines and offers independent consulting professionals the opportunity to network with others, learn about project management, web-development and new business applications. In studio to talk about Freelance Camp Des Moines 2010 is Micholyn Fajen who left the cubical ten years ago and now works as an independent marketer heading Fajen Consulting. We'll talk about the "unconference", what attendees can expect for their $25 registration fee, what is Freelance Pros and the issues that surround going it alone...but with friends. Micholyn Fajen today with Insight on Business.
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our look into the world of advertising, marketing, consumer trends and best business practices. You can watch us live Monday - Thursday starting at Noon Cental here at Webcast One LIVE. Because this is an interactive show, join us in "The Chat" or on Twitter @MichaelLibbie- I monitor before, during and after the show.
Here is the show from today...the links are below the video:
Do you believe everything you hear? Yesterday during the show a viewer wrote that he had been on his SECOND INTERVIEW for a job and after the interview the insurance company spokesperson said, "You are not the right person for this job and, frankly, I feel like you've wasted my time." HUH? I visited with Billie Sucher, a job consultant in Des Moines who said, "Michael, I am hearing more and more comments like this from job seekers every day." We're going to attempt to have Billie on our show next week to talk about this...we've got our thoughts...but what have YOU experienced? Make contact with us? (Check the photo...from the very early days of Insight on Business when we were broadcasting from a closet!)
Scared? Want out of the game? I understand. Seth Godin had a great "thought starter" this morning...he often does. You see, most marketing efforts fall well short of business expectations. Most campaigns are mismanaged, misdirected and then...miss the mark. So it's easy to look at marketing as a failure and something "not worth the effort". Unless... Today "Four Ideas to Improve Your Marketing Success". Come on by for the list and the discussion.
My friend Ginger Johnson of Women Enjoying Beer said yesterday, "What is it with media companies who refuse to follow real people on Twitter? Why the Green Oz Curtain?" As always...well put. We were talking, again, about Des Moines Cityview. It's gotten to be a huge joke among Des Moines Social Media folks..as the paper continues to "broadcast" their message but...isn't interested in feedback. So typical and thanks Ginger. Check her blog...good stuff and it's more than beer it's about marketing to women. We've got to get Ginger back to do a show...maybe Skype her in from a beer event in her Oregon location?
"Obsessively, relentessly at OUR service!" - You might recognize a switch in the tag-line for Mid-American Energy. Are they really at YOUR service or...theirs? I've got a back-story for you that makes consumers like me...nuts and it's not just Mid-American Energy...but a host of service providers that make YOU do the work so THEY can do the service. We'll tackle this right out of the chute after noon...you won't have to wait. It really is time for a change...they don't see it so we'll point it out.
Been to The Oasis for lunch yet? OK...so if you are watching from Boston you'll not have the chance...unless you are visiting Des Moines. This small tucked out of the way restaurant is very...odd...and very cool. The Oasis...1/2 a block north of Court on 4th Street. Let me know what you think?
That was the opening we did for a recent story line...just so you get an idea of what the place looks like. It's small...so you might miss it.
I received an e-mail from a business this morning suggesting that I attend their "Grand Open House" this weekend. It was loaded with information about all the activities, what folks could expect and what was for sale. Trouble was...no location. Nothing. It was assumed, by the business, that everybody on their e-mail list KNEW where they were located and the times of the event. Opps..."How to Write a Press Release - Four Tips" coming up...today.
It's Thursday and that means time for "The Worst Ad of the Week"! Dramatic...no? We've had several suggestions this week and it's really hard for our staff to pick the best...so we'll show you what we've got:
The first is the "ISU - Man Cave Hot Dog" sign. I don't know about you...but is this a little naughty? Or is it just...me? All we need to have is some guy opening wide for a tasty hot dog in front of the "Man Cave" sign. Now that could be a contender. Thanks Robin for the photo! Couldn't get Mark to stand there with a hot dog in his mouth huh?
Next is this: We're really into the penis thing today. This is a sign that is designed to...inspire? Well, it is from the Gaylord location... Ahh...we call it...odd. And, that's why it clearly is one of the worst we've ever seen. And, yes kids...people actually put this stuff up and think it's a good idea.
But our clear winner is this gem from Moultrie, GA. I've been to Moultrie often for the great Sunbelt Agricultural Exposition but I've never run across this "dude" and maybe it's a good thing. I'm not sure what is worse...a white guy doing a rap (not as a white guy) or the older babe doing the dance. Enjoy folks...because this clearly is...our..."WORST Ad of the Week"!
Sorry...you may need a moment to recover.
Insight on Business is a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing and Communications and made possible by:
NatraTurf - Now there is a better way to take care of your lawns and gardens without chemical applications: www.NatraTurf.com
Lotus Moments - Wedding Invitations and Business Announcements as unique as...you: www.LotusMoments.com
Exceptional Specialty Products - Let Cindy Taylor help your company get noticed: www.ESP4All.com
Thanks and see you at NOON Central...here at Webcast One LIVE!
