Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends. We're seen LIVE starting at Noon Central at Webcast One Live. When you come by to watch the show you can interact with us by using "The Chat" or connect on Twitter, I monitor @MichaelLibbie before during and after the show. Come by for some marketing nuggets for your business... Here is the show for today. There is no sound for the first :55 of the clip. Must be those pesky switches in the control room. I am sorry about that... All the links are below the video...
Up first we've got Sarah Barthole in studio to talk about what the Iowa American Marketing Association has going on with "Agency Crawl". (The "crawl" is today starting at 5:30PM and here is the link to register.) Sarah is the Vice President of Programing for the AMA-Iowa chapter and she's been busy finding ways to increase the visibility and value of AMA-Iowa. We'll ask Sarah "why" and "what" an "Agency Crawl "is, what she sees as the value of association membership and, because she is involved with the Iowa State Daily student newspaper, what direction, she feels, newspapers are headed. We think we know...but it will be interesting to learn what they are saying at the higher levels of learning. Crawl around with Sarah Barthole today at Noon Central.
In other stories:
I don't get to be here tomorrow so I get to wish my friend Timothy L. Johnson a very happy birthday. Tim is writer, lecturer and great guy to know if you want to take a peek at how to get things done! Here is his website. He'll no doubt be at Central Iowa Bloggers tomorrow morning at Panera Bread on University in West Des Moines (Beverly Hills of the Midwest) unless he's been up all night...with the kids. ;-)
So, you want to start a business...what type of business has the best odds of still being around in five years? Good stuff to know and Scott Shane of Small Business Trends has taken the time to look at the data and offer some thoughts on "Start-up Odds of Success". We'll talk about it and how you might use this data to help you in your next business decision.
Staying in the world of successful business ventures - If you are Amish you've got a leg up on creating a successful business. Data shows that 90% of Amish start-up business ventures are...successful. Why? And, what can you learn from the Amish Business Model? Good stuff from Eric Wesner written by Jeff Cornwall. Here is the list of three things the Amish know...but you may not:
Humble leadership -- never expect employees to do anything you won't do yourself.
Husbandry of resources -- there is very little waste in Amish businesses. They find ways to use waste for new functions whenever possible.
Appreciation for small scale -- bigger is not better to the Amish. Their schools are kept small, their churches are small, and they limit the growth of their businesses. They believe that too much growth can lead to arrogance and pride. Small scale also keeps time for family. The virtue of temperance is definitely evident with the Amish.
Best Banks for Small Business - You've heard of JD Powers right? They recently conducted a survey and reported on, what they believe, are the best banks for small businesses. The list is long and you might be surprised at who they picked. Here is the link to the article by Michael Periu.
Creepy? - Here is a creative piece from Leo Burnett out of Chicago featuring Dolf Lundgren and the Norton Unicorn. It's not the Worst Ad of the Week...but creepy?
Moving on...
Dressing for Business - You may scoff at this but it's a problem I see every day I walk through the financial district of Des Moines to our Webcast One Studio. For some reason "Casual Friday" has become "Casual Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday". What is the deal? One upon a time the only folks wearing "flip-flops" were the Viet Cong and surfers. Today? Many, many years ago I purchased a book, "Dress for Success" by John T. Malloy and it's still a great read...35 years later. But, if you're looking for something more current here is a piece by Steve Tobak, "Do Clothes Make the Manager". Seven tips for you...Enjoy and put some shoes on!
Time for "The Worst Ad of the Week" - Here is just another example why business owners should NEVER do their own ads...
What's with her little dance? Yikes!
That's it...see you LIVE at Noon Central. Insight on Business is a production of our advertisng agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing and Communications, www.InsightCubed.com and made possible by:
NatraTurf - Putting chemicals on your lawn isn't good for you, your children or your pets...learn how to wean lawn and go...natural. www.NatraTurf.com
Lotus Moments - Wedding invitations and business announcements as unique as you...that's the way it should be, right? www.LotusMoments.com
Exceptional Specialty Products - Let Cindy Taylor help your business get noticed: www.ESP4All.com
Hello and welcome to Insight on Business with Michael Libbie our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends. We're seen LIVE at Noon Central over at Webcast One LIVE. We'll bring you our thoughts on what works, what doesn't and how you can take advantage of our knowledge to increase your marketing footprint and...sales. Before, during and after the show I monitor Twitter @MichaelLibbie and during the show you can offer your comments, questions and answers by using "The Chat". Loads of ways to interact. If you would like to "Watch LIVE Now" here you go.
Yesterday, towards the end of the show I gave you Four Tips to Insure a Positive Fourth Quarter. That's become a real deal with several viewers so...we'll cover it again right at the beginning. It's all about a recent story coming out of Nielsen Research focused on holiday shopping. Some real nuggets for you today...right out of the chute.
This week I had an encounter with workers from the nation's largest tree service Asplundh. IF line staff at most large companies could be as cordial and communicative as the guys who are working in our neighborhood we would all be better off. I realize that utility tree trimming can be a "hot issue" with many homeowners but I'll bet most can be defused when the crew takes a sincere interest in the homeowner. Big ups to Asplundh on this job. Remember...it's the little things that matter to consumers.
Remember yesterday when I was telling you about keeping organized? I think I've already messed up. I waited for a client for thirty-minutes but...no show. Golly, hope it wasn't me.
Website Development - We have been wrestling for four weeks on a project for a client. Getting the right design and making sure it works for the consumer. Everything we looked at, everything we designed just didn't do it for us. Then we all sat down and did some thinking. Serious thinking about what we were trying to get across to the consumer. After a couple of hours it came to us. Less than an hour later we were rolling through the content and making positive changes. Your nugget: Take the time to think and consider the consumer...first.
Do you go to the print runs...or just hope for the best? We'll tell you why that is so important...if you want to save money...and get the right message out.
I just learned of this story and wondering what you know. Taking a break from the world of business to the world of politics...for just a moment. Do any of you know the story of Wendy Weiner and the Iowa Film Office? Here is her blog. Anybody know anything about this?
Joining us today we've got Brent Pohlman calling in from Omaha about a social media story that you are going to love. What is the future of marketing and agriculture and social media. Wait until you hear this from a recent seminar Brent attended. That will be about 12:30 today.
NatraTurf - Still Putting Chemicals on your lawn? Stop and learn more www.NatraTurf.com
Lotus Moments - Because your wedding invitation or business announcement should be as unique as you: www.LotusMoments.com
Exceptional Specialty Products - Let Cindy Taylor help you get noticed. www.ESP4All.com
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is a Monday - Thursday walk through the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends. We'll share the news, information and offer up tips to help small business, medium size business and even those of you who consider yourselves...large. Why? To help business not just survive but thrive and create a larger marketing footprint. You can catch the show LIVE starting at Noon Central at Webcast One Live. And, because I'm interested in your comments, questions and answers you can join us in "The Chat" during the show and I monitor Twitter @MichaelLibbie before, during and after the show. To Watch Live Now - Here is your link. If you missed the show, no worries: Here is the re-broadcast all the links are below the video:
It never ceases to amaze me - This morning I caught a "Tweet" from Cityview the "Independent Newspaper of Des Moines" wanting folks to, "Help us reach 2,000 fans." Yet...they follow nobody on Twitter. Guess they really do mean "independent". Later I take a call from an SEO company (not in Iowa) wanting to sell me services for my business because "I can't be found on an Internet Search". Oh really? Lame...lame...lame. Here is your nugget: IF you are selling something to somebody you had better know something about them before you make silly requests...or dumb sales calls.
Well...we started this off in a good mood huh? ;-) Sorry...
Duh...where was I on this one: Mark Kruse of Capital City Equipment recently purchased the rural tractor dealership in Bevington, Iowa where they will continue to sell and service FOTON compact tractors as well as Kubota. They have re-named the dealership Sundown Equipment and what is really neat is they now have two price points for the Rural Lifestyle person seeking a tractor and other equipment. Love it, love it! Well done Mark!! It's a great location!
You think it's all been done? How about a great twist on a new product and then...up the price! We're talking ice cream and ice cream trucks prowling the neighborhood and selling PREMIUM Ice Cream. HUH? Here is the story about Van Leeuwein Artisan Ice Cream, a niche market and success from our friends at Inc. Gross sales of over $425,000 their first summer! Now...what are you selling that you can re-package and then create new markets and delivery? LOVE IT... Gosh, I'm in a better mood already!
Got a bunch of projects on your plate? I do...and if I forget something or miss a deadline it's NOT a good thing. That's why I was really interested in this article by Amber Singleton Riviere for the Web Worker Daily. She says to get all the stuff done...and not forget. Compartmentalize your work.Have a read! Now all I need to do is...do it!
The the outlook for the Holiday Season for consumers? You are not going to want to hear this...but holiday sales are projected to be...FLAT. What does that mean to you and your marketing plan into Fourth Quarter 2010? I'll tell you and give you four things you need to do today to insure...a better Fourth Quarter than Second or Third. But...you need to start this afternoon! In the meantime, here is the full report from the Nielsen Wire good reading my friends!
Those stories and MORE today at Noon Central only at Webcast One LIVE! Insight on Business is a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing and Communications, www.InsightCubed.com and made possible by:
NatraTurf - Now you no longer have to put chemicals that are bad for you, your kids and your pets...on your lawn. Gear up for fall and learn more: www.NatraTurf.com
Lotus Moments - Business Announcements and Wedding Invitations should be as unique as you...right? www.LotusMoments.com
Exceptional Specialty Products - Getting noticed is critical and Cindy Taylor can help learn how: www.ESP4All.com
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends. You can watch the show LIVE today at Noon Central at Webcast One LIVE or wait until later in the day when we post the re-broadcast. Our goal is to give small to medium size businesses (big business already has all the answers...) a leg up when it comes to marketing their company. Daily, you'll learn what works...and what you should avoid when it comes to advertising and consumers. And, because it's an interactive show, we take your comments, questions and answers live on "The Chat" while I also monitor Twitter @MichaelLibbie before during and after the program.
Here is the show from today. Links are below the video. Jason Parkin was great...enjoy.
Our studio guest today is no stranger to the camera. Meteorologist Jason Parkin has worked the weather desk at WHO-TV13 and KCCI-TV8...and still fills in from time to time. Semi-employed as he is, Jason had a find a way to combine his passion for weather, invent something that met the needs of consumers and pay off student loans at Iowa State and the University of Iowa. Enter DSMWeather.com a hyper-local weather channel dedicated to metro weather conditions and more. We'll ask him about the niche he's filling, and how hyper-local consumers worked into his decision. By the way, we love the Video Forecast...nice touch. Jason Parkin today with Insight on Business.
In other stories...
Where are you? Seriously. Yesterday I was reading about Levelland a city in Texas who has received all kinds of praise from social media experts on the way they are using Twitter. That was nice...so I thought I'd check them out and see WHERE in Texas Levelland might be. Nothing. Lot's of talk about how wonderful Lovelland is...but no idea as to where they are. (Remember, Texas is a big place.) Lesson: YOU might know where you are and YOU might know the finer features of your product or service but do YOU let others...know? Just a suggestion when you are creating that great website about a great product, service or location.
Last week we were looking at television rates in the Des Moines Market for the 10:00PM news. KCCI leads the pack not only in viewers but also in the cost of a thirty-second ad. The cost for one :30, post election, ad in the 10:00PM - 10:30PM is $700. We told you following the August release of the media ratings that prices would go up. We just didn't know by how much. Easy to burn through a $5,000 budget huh?
By the way, there are 432,820 Television Households in the Des Moines DMA (Designated Market Area) that number ranks us as 73rd and puts us ahead of Omaha, NE. Spokane, WA and Springfield, MO. and right under Honolulu. In case you wanted to know.
West Des Moines - the "Beverly Hills of the Midwest" wants "Mom and Pop". In a land with loads of "big box" stores officials of the city say they want to attract more small business people. Seems they think small business is the key for long term prosperity. And, they are right. So...they've made arrangements to start a "small business incubator" a common practice among many towns. If you would like the full story...here is the artice from this mornings Des Moines Register.
The largest health insurer in Iowa debuted their new logo and tag line last week. The Wellmark Blue Cross - Blue Shield logo is simple and the new tag line: "Your Health, Well Protected" is the result of market research. Wanna see? www.Wellmark.com Which brings to mind...when you create a logo or a tag line...how much effort do you go through to make sure you are communicating the right message? Just asking.
There was a news story last week police and fire officials being worried that more citizens are turning to cell phones as their phone system and leaving the world of "land lines". That, they say, is a problem for 911 calls because many cell phones do not show the location. 911 obsolete? Not exactly but for folks like my friend Robert Hidajat of Flarecaster based in Ames saw the trend and created an answer for cell phone users. What is Flarecaster? It's a way to use an application for cell phones to alert people or the authorities that you need help. One technology fades...another takes its place. Meeting consumer needs...we love it and nice job Robert!
Today is Metro Monday the day we focus on local stories and guests. Even if it's about the Des Moines, Iowa Metro we promise "nuggets" that you can use no matter where in the world your business operates. Promise...
Welcome to the Thursday Edition of Insight on Business with Michael Libbie our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends. We're on today, live, at Noon Central only at Webcast One LIVE...or you can watch on Facebook and more. Later today we'll post the re-broadcast, just in case you can't check us...live. During the live show you can participate in "The Chat" or Twitter, I monitor @MichaelLibbie before, during and after the show.
Are you still using words to give out a phone number? Like Direct-TV or "Get Charter"? I'm always amazed when I see this...why? Twenty-five percent of cell phones, the majority of phones in use today, do not have alpha-numeric buttons. I'm not making this up. It's a little inconvenient when you have to go over to the neighbors or dig around for an old land line phone to figure out what numbers to dial. This...and the folks that STILL feel they must put their phone number in/on radio and TV ads. Old school...and this just might be the "Worst Ad of the Week"...well at least runner up. Word: DON'T! Big UPS to my good friend Phil O'Reilly from WIN-98.5 in Michigan for the idea!
Actually, "Worst Ad of the Week" goes to Volkswagen and their lame work on "Slug-Bug". Here is the ad:
Except for the first image...they ain't Slug-Bugs. However...just call me a purist? But UPS for the Stevie Wonderbit at the end. Volkswagen my friends...the Thursday Edition of: "The WORST Ad of the Week"!
OH OH...say it ain't so! American Idol ratings have taken a dip of 8% and those folks 18 - 49 dropped by 9%. (Could it be Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler are not right for the show?) A prime demo for the show. Yet...a 30-second ad will cost you $485,000. And, nope...that does not include production. And you thought the rates at your local TV-Station were high. Welcome to this world.
Speaking of TV Production...was I? Last night we sat around doing video edits for several clients. We had a busy day yesterday and, as always, we were on a tight deadline. So...a little midnight oil. Well, not quite midnight. HOWEVER before Final Cut Pro...it would have been well beyond midnight. I LOVE technology. This story is about shooting and editing...and your business. Listen up.
Thinking of using well known people as spokespersons for your brand? We think it's worth the effort and cost. We don't think it's a good idea to take somebody vague and use them. I wrote about this four years ago in a post called "Who is Lauren Bishop?". Here is a great piece we found in Advertising Age with words by the folks from Method. A brand, by the way, we love! The key here is understanding the link between the celebrity and your target market. Oh...and creating a "spokes-model"? We think it's smart IF you brand everything...remember Mr. Whipple? Sure you do. Dick Wilson played this spokesperson for over 20 years... The key: Be consistant!
OK...gotta get this to you. Thanks for coming by and thanks for watching. Insight on Business is a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing and Communications and is made possible by:
Lotus Moments - Business announcements and wedding invitations that are as unique as...you: www.LotusMoments.com
NatraTurf - Please, no more chemicals on your lawn or garden...it's not good for you, your kids, your pets or our planet. www.NatraTurf.com
Exceptional Speciality Products - Get notice with the help of Cindy Taylor: www.ESP4All.com
News and information from the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends...that's Insight on Business with Michael Libbie. Each day, Monday - Thursday, we share with you marketing tips that match the mood of the consumer. Why? Because we want your business to succeed...that's the goal. Think of it as getting our professional services for...free? Yikes! And to keep you in the loop I monitor Twitter @MichaelLibbie before during and after the show and you can take part in "The Chat" with your comments, questions and answers to the topics we're covering. We're LIVE only on Webcast One LIVE starting today at Noon Central. If you MISSED the show...no problem. Here you go...the re-broadcast from today: Comments below:
On the show today:
I get to be on Liz Live with Liz Nead at 9:00AM. Why am I doing a "soft, feel good" show directed toward women? You kidding? I get to hang with Liz for an hour, watch her work and visit with you about stuff outside of my business. We'll also talk about marketing to women...and what most business people don't get. Liz Live today at 9:00AM Central only on Webcast One LIVE! Come see us if you get this in time.
Then...I'll tell you about Jeff Levitt and his new eating place. It's called The Oasis Ristorante located on 4th Street near Court Avenue in Des Moines. WHY would a guy want to go into business now? In the eating business? What is he thinking? We'll share in his first interview today at Noon.
I'm going to share with you some numbers about the impact social media has and combine that with how to make unhappy customers...loyal fans of your product or service. The numbers come from a recent piece by Bob Janet. A good contact if you want to boost sales. And, yep, he'll come to you. Here is his site: Warning - It Ain't Flashy...
"This is a phone call I don't want to make, but..." Or, "I'm not comfortable having this meeting, but..." Those are two sentences I have heard used by people in business and non-business situations over the past two weeks. My question is this: If you are not comfortable with the phone call or bothered by the meeting why have it? If you really don't want to do something or say something why be an idiot and do it anyway? Either you believe in what you are doing or you don't. It's that clear. Taking responsibility is tough and it ain't for sissies. What do you think?
The Recession is Over...and has been for months. You feel that way? I do...and I'll tell you why.
Let's talk Public Relations and Stunts - For years in the broadcasting industry entertainment folks have been duping the public with one stunt after another...just to get noticed. Recently there is speculation that the New York Jet's/Ines Sainzflap was just that...a way to boost the profile of Miss Sainz. Here is an interesting read by Pierce Mattie from New York. You can decide...but it's my pleasure to post the photos...yikes!
Please listen to me on this. I am begging you. Have you ever heard of the Procter and Gamble "Bounce - Dryer Bar"? It's an item that was released last year and it replaces the Bounce - Dryer Sheets. P&G says the "dryer bar" lasts up to two months...read value. What is interesting is they are using "real moms" to hype the product on-line and in ads. User testimonials...why are YOU NOT using them? My bet is that you don't have a clue on how. And, how to make them look and sound...real. We'll share today a bit about Mommy Marketing and how viral that can get. Then there was this contest...on user generated ads. We'll show you a sample. Oh, and how much is P&G spending to get you to try the Bounce Dryer-Bar? Last year they spent $11.2 million and for the first six months of 2010 - $6.8 million. Which brings to mind another discussion we need to have.
Off this goes...thanks for reading and watching at Noon Central. Insight on Business is a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing and Communications, www.InsightCubed.com and made possible by:
NatraTurf - Now you don't have to put chemicals on your lawn or garden. Chemicals that aren't good for you, your kids or your pets. Learn more: www.NatraTurf.com
Lotus Moments - Now you can have wedding invitations and business announcements as unique as you... www.LotusMoments.com
Exceptional Specialty Products - The idea is to have your business get noticed - Cindy Taylor can help: www.ESP4All.com
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our daily (Monday - Thursday) look at the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends. We keep up up to speed on marketing and advertising ideas to help you build your market share and win the battle. You can see us LIVE today at Noon Central and take part in the broadcast using "The Chat" or follow me on Twitter, I monitor @MichaelLibbie before, during and after the show.
Here is the show from today...and surprise guest, Ben Milne from Dwolla stopped in to say, "Howdy". Actually he didn't say "howdy"...I think I did.
Keeping In Touch - Part One: Last evening the Windsor Heights, Iowa (Pop. 5,000) held their city council meeting on our...street. It's called "Taking It To The Streets" and in this video Mayor Jerry Sullivan tells us why.
Ahem... Business: Get out from behind the counter, get out of the office, go and talk with, listen to your customers. Engage them...you'll be surprised at what you'll learn and how grateful they are that you are listening.
Keep in Touch - Part Two: Last week I spoke to a group of RE/MAX Real Estate Agents on personal branding. A couple of days later this card arrived at our office. Steve SchraderBachar tof Wells Fargo Home Mortgage took the time to take a pen, put it to paper and send it in the mail...you remember...the United States Postal Service Mail. Do you think I've shown it to folks? Think maybe it made an impression? Go ahead, click on the image you can read it if you want. The point here is being different. E-Mail is great...but...this rocks. Thanks Steve.
One day...two examples of how you can build your business and have consumer impact. My head hurts because this is SOOOOO easy but sooooo many folks don't get it.
I had a meeting last week with an entrepreneur who was convinced that the direction he was going with his product/service was correct. I listened to his story, made a few notes and an hour later redirected his efforts to a place that would make him more money and much more relevant to the market. The question here is, "How often do you go outside and have somebody give you an objective look at your product/service and how you might market? Just asking...
I was talking to a friend of mine this past weekend who just borrowed $2.4 million to re-build one of his 7 restaurants and renovate another. Money may be tight...for bad ideas? See above.
And...speaking of funding: Have you heard of Kickstarter? Got an idea? Think it might work? Done your homework? Need some cash? Kickstarter is a way to fund small to mid-size projects and include loads of people in your dream. There are a number of projects being shared on Kickstarter...maybe yours should be one of them? We'll visit about this today. Big UPS to my friend Ed Weintrob for the link and the information! You're amazing Ed.
Business Good? The other day my friend Brent Pohlman from Midwest Labsin Omaha told me that they shipped out 40,000 soil testing bags in one day. The back side of this story is the company usually goes through 1,000,000 soil sample bags. Since August they have shipped over 300,000. They are on course for a fantastic year. One of the reasons? They have been marketing like crazy...online and guess what? People are finding them. We'll talk about it.
And, in case you've run out of things to worry about...there is more news about Melamine and tainted baby formula coming out of China. Brent tells me that in another week look for all kinds of news and testing going on across the United States. Here is his story. Condoms...and now Melamine... Oh my.
We've talked about Commercial Confusion in the past. Now there is a study out and as reported by AdWeek older consumers tend to get confused by "too much creative". Of course, if your not targeting older consumers...maybe that's OK? But, if you're not... We'll talk about how creative can get in the way of the message...today.
I've told you about Bob Janet before. He is a savvy sales guy...not too flashy but his message is great. Last week he posted some figures and some suggestions on how to turn complaints into loyal customers. We'll share with you. In the meantime if you're looking for somebody to come in and jump-start your sales efforts...here is Bob's Website. Told you, not too flashy.
Oh...and one other thing: Local resident Brian Gillette, who has been a guest on our show, is running in a Phoenix marathon to raise money for the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. Here is the story from our friends at Strut Your Stuff.
Insight on Business is a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing and Communications www.InsightCubed.com and is made possible by:
NatraTurf - Still putting chemicals on your lawn and garden? No need, now that you have a natural option: www.NatraTurf.com
Lotus Moments - For Wedding Invitations and Business Announcements as unique as you: www.LotusMoments.com
Exceptional Specialty Products - Getting noticed is a great idea...and Cindy Taylor can help make that happen: www.ESP4All.com
See you LIVE at Noon Central...and a reminder, this afternoon we'll post the re-broadcast of the show...thanks for reading.
Keeping In Touch - Part One: Last week I did a seminar for about 40 RE/MAX Real Estate Concepts agents about personal and professional branding using traditional and non-traditional media. In the audience was Steve SchraderBachar a Mortgage Planner for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. He sent me this note...in the mail...the regular mail...remember? The mail that comes to your office, delivered by a human... The written message goes a bunch further than e-mail. Why? Because it's so rare. Try it...when you really want to reach out to your customers. Yep, you can click on the image to read.
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends on Webcast One LIVE! On the second day of the week we focus a little closer to home with Metro Monday but, I promise, no matter where you live you'll find a "nugget" or two that you can use to increase your business and your marketing footprint. And you can join in the discussion with questions, answers or comments in "The Chat" or join me on Twitter, I monitor @MichaelLibbie before, during and after the show. We're on LIVE at Noon Central and to watch LIVE all you need to do is follow this link. Enjoy...
Our guest is Vicki Comegys the Vice President of Sales and Services for the Des Moines Convention and Visitors Bureau. Vicki, who I met at a recent Urbandale Chamber of Commerce event, is a wealth of information about, not only Des Moines, but also how business and industry can build on solid marketing plans and effective execution. She's been with the CVB for 24 years...that means she knows where all the "bones" are hidden. We'll have a wide open discussion about economic impact, what tourism means to cities, the myth of expensive air travel to Des Moines and we'll ask her to open up the closet and let us in on what this city, or yours, needs to do to grow and be...great.
Vicki Comegys...today with Insight on Business.
In other stories:
Thinking of a business idea...and you're not sure where to go to create the Business Plan? That has just been solved with TheIdeaStartup a site that will help you put your idea into action. Want to learn more? Here is a link to a brand new article by Rick Broida for BNet.
Think...before you type. It's a wise piece of advice for business people who are in a tiff with a supplier, customer or employee. You see...e-mails are not biodegradable. And, what you said last month can come back to bite you...tomorrow. The other thing about heated e-mail exchanges...the quick written word doesn't have voice inflection. That means an innocent statement can be taken wrong by the reader and WAMMO...you've got a heated argument even if not intended. Here is a story about that from Tim Berry for BPlans.
Congratulations to our friends at The Integer Group or Des Moines who recently won an award from Entrepreneur Magazine as one of the top 25 places in the nation to work. Here's the story from The Des Moines Register. What makes Integer such a great place? We'll share.
Here is something...really different: Recently we purchased a home in Windsor Heights, Iowa. It's a suburb of Des Moines and across the street from Clive and Urbandale. Honest. We get a letter in the mail last week that the City Council of Windsor Heights will be holding their monthly meeting...in front of our home! The adventure is called "Taking It To The Streets" where, several times during the year, the City Council goes to the people and hold meetings in neighborhoods. I'm impressed...very. Hint to government and to business: Want to know what your customer is thinking? Go to them and ask.
That's a wrap for today... Our guest, Vicki Comegys today at Noon Central with Insight on Business a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing and Communications and made possible by:
NatraTurf - Still putting chemicals on your lawn and garden? You don't have to...anymore. Learn how you can improve your life...and the planet: www.NatraTurf.com
Lotus Moments - Wedding Invitations and Business Announcements as unique as you. Learn more: www.LotusMoments.com
Exceptional Specialty Products - Getting noticed is critical and Cindy Taylor can help make that happen: www.ESP4All.com
Thanks for coming by...we'll catch you LIVE at Noon Central.
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends. We're seen LIVE at Noon Central here at Webcast One LIVE where you can take part in the show by using "The Chat" or visit using Twitter @MichaelLibbie that I monitor before, during and after our broadcast. Learn more about how to be a better business today. And...it's Thursday, that means we've got "The Worst Ad of the Week" it's not to embarrass...it's a tool to help you do better. If you want to Watch Now...here is the link.
How to tell is somebody is lying. No, it's not when their lips move...but close. Pamela Meyer is the author of "Liespotting: Proven Techniques to Detect Deception" and according to this article by Mary Ellen Slayter folks are rushing to the read. Pamela says she was surprised at how much research has been done on the subject. We'll visit about it today.
Take time to THINK - We've talked about this before... How our culture seems to reward "busy" over "thinking". Just to prove to you that we don't pull this stuff out of our...ahem...desk drawer here is yet another article that speaks to the power of thinking. Here Georgie Por gives you FIVE things to do to boost creativity by setting aside time to...think. Do it and you will soar!
Losers were Toyota and BP - To find out who was in the middle have a read...some great insight as to what makes or breaks a brand. Even yours.
OnStar is moving beyond the "emergency" connection for vehicles. They are now testing the hands free way to communicate on social media channels such as Facebook. Still think Social Media is a fad? Oh my...I get weary.
Remember when we were raving about the Toyota "Swagger Wagon" long length commercial? We told you then that consumers enjoyed longer length commercials as long as they were entertaining and offered some information. The Old Spice series of social media response ads created a number one brand for Old Spice Body Wash...even if the majority of ads were only available on YouTube to be seen and shared. The message (nugget) here is: WHEN ARE YOU GOING TO PRODUCE THOUGHTFUL, ENTERTAINING COMMERCIAL MESSAGES THAT DO NOT RESTRICT YOU TO THIRTY-SECONDS? Here is yet another example of what we're talking about, it is the RE/MAX "Side Job" piece that runs about 1:45. Comments below:
Good stuff and it meets all the angles. It is well acted, well shot, well timed and leaves you with the branding message. Now, several things to consider: Do not attempt to to this on your own...you'll need help. That's when you call us. But, for cryin' out loud...get going OK?
That brings us to "The Worst Ad of the Week" - Disclaimer: We like the Chamber of Commerce idea. We like/love the opportunity to network. We think there are some great people who run these organizations and we understand that some face funding issues. HOWEVER: When encouraging new people to get involved and passing out literature that promotes your organization it's a good idea NOT to do what theWest Des Moines Chamber did...this week: Here is the front and the back of a "take-a-way" given to attendees. Go ahead you can click on the image to enlarge.
Ahem....check your handouts before you...hand out. A big thank you to Cindy who attended the event and thought about us and passed along the information. Congratulations to the West Des Moines Chamber of Commerce...you've been honored with "The Worst Ad of the Week"! Or at least...presentation.
Now for something...different. If you live in or near Des Moines here is the information for DSM SushiBomb. You might remember that we had a visiting fish in studio with us several weeks ago. While the event is SOLD OUT...it is a great example of hyper-local marketing and creating an event from...nothing. Well done! And here is the chef and Sushi in the Studio...what a hoot!
NatraTurf - Putting chemicals on your lawn and garden isn't good for you, your pets or your children...much less the planet. Learn a different way - www.NatraTurf.com
Lotus Moments - Wedding invitations and business announcements as unique as...you learn more: www.LotusMoments.com
Exceptional Specialty Products - The idea is to "get noticed"... Cindy Taylor can help that happen... www.ESP4All.com
Thanks for reading and we'll catch you LIVE today Noon Central!
Insight on Business with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Thursday look at the world of advertising, marketing and consumer trends on Webcast One LIVE! You can watch us LIVE starting today at Noon Central and take part in the broadcast by using "The Chat" or Twitter @MichaelLibbie that I monitor before, during and after the show. If you're catching this now and want to Watch Live Now to Mac or Liz here here you go.
I'm still jazzed from yesterday and my time with RE/MAX Real Estate Concepts agents. I learned much from them... How about you? Do you think it's important for professional speakers to learn as much from their audience as they do from the presentation? Know anybody that does that? Just asking because stepping out of comfort zones and learning from others is fantastic. How about you?
Are you "sharing the love"? Seriously. Here is an interesting post from the Huffington Post done by Debbie Robins about getting more productivity from "loved workers". NO...not THAT! We'll talk a bit about this and get your reaction? You can do that you know by joining us in "The Chat" or on Twitter...
We've talked about this before - CREATIVITY in your business. Now comes this great piece from Bloomberg Businessweekabout how to motivate and staff and each other to new levels of creativity. It has much to do with the story...about love. We discussed this very topic on Monday with Jonnie Wright. Gosh...we're ALWAYS AHEAD of the curve. We'll talk about it.
Detroit - You say the word and the BRAND isn't very positive. It's sad to have watched from far away what has happened to my hometown... However there is hope and some people on the inside of Detroit are attempting to turn the city from a wasteland to a thriving city. Check this video...we'll talk about branding and the work ahead for these folks...and us. This is from Lemonade -Detroit.
Speaking of Video...sometimes it should not be used... We'll show you a piece today about a wacky rant by a politician...who, by the way, did not get nominated. Gotta feel the love!
