Insight on Business

Insight on Business - 02/25/13

Insight on Business - The News Hour is our look at advertising, marketing, public relations and business stories on a local, regional and national level.  We're live at 8:45 each Monday morning on Webcast One Live and later with the podcast and video-cast right here.  Insight on Business - The News Hour is brought to you by FUIRSA - "Working hard on your taxes until the cows come home." You're welcome to join the conversation on our Twitter Stream @InsightADV or our advertising agency Facebook Page is right here.  This week:

 

The Twitter Hashtag and Event Management

It's really a simple thing but we often see folks who have a Twitter account and who are putting on an event mismanage the opportunity to connect with attendees.  The simple answer, which will engage attendees and the TwitterSphere is to use the Twitter Hashtag.  I'll share with you the five things (see we've added one) you should do to enhance the experience and public relations of your next event.  And, as always, if you've got additional suggestions share them with us.

 

What Makes You Stop?

Last week we shared with you some examples of Point of Purchase images/copy that can get consumers to stop and notice what it is that you are selling.  This week I'll share with you something we saw in a local grocery store that compelled shoppers to notice.  It all has to do with great color coordination, an attractive spokesperson and a product not many people know about.  Put it all together and this works!  Hat tip to Harvest Moon Farms of St. Charles, Iowa.

Betting on Rural Iowa

Last week I wrote this blog post about a company (Calcium Products, Inc.) who has made the decision to expand in tiny Gilmore City, Iowa (pop. 504).  I'll share some of the back-story as to why and a peek at what they are doing to not only expand but be energy efficient at the same time.

 

Smart Looking Marketing 

Recently the Des Moines Cycle Club asked me about some marketing ideas they had.  We take NO credit for this great looking jersey but we do love it that they took our advice to use the QR code on both the jersey and the membership cards (which members get 10% off at several area bike shops).  Now all we need to do is get them to go mobile so they can make the best out of their QR.  Ya think?

515 Brewing Company

Our guests this morning are two of the guys from the new Metro Brew Pub - 515 Brewing Company.  Over the past couple of weeks they've held a couple of "soft openings".  We went down to visit and shot a little video we'll also share with you.  We're interested in the "back-story" of building a dream business while being a full time employee, the support of family and friends, the work and worry and what makes the world of brewing such a deal?  Join us at about 9:15 for a live conversation with Bailey Forrest and David Ropte from 515 Brewing Company.  And, for those of you considering a start-up like this...bet they have some solid advice.

 

 

We're LIVE at 8:45 on Monday and whenever you want...right back here. 

Business Insight - September, 14, 2012

Each Friday we look at some of the stories you may have seen or missed, add our
comment and offer up Insight on Business. Why?  To help you learn what's going on in the world of advertising/marketing and communications.  Tips you might be able to use in your business to create...better business in this economy or any.  Several original posts and some new information. If you want to leave a comment here, feel free.  Or follow our Twitter Stream @InsightADV and our advertising/communication agency Facebook Page is right here.  Ready?  Let's go!

LOGOS - Round One

Last week we authored a piece on Logos.  The bottom line to this message is the fact you can (if you want) purchase logo ideas from on-line marketers and it will cost you between $69 and $100.  However, buyer beware.  Most of these "custom logos" are re-hash stock pieces that have been used dozens if not hundreds of times. Our belief is that you want something that will last and be a unique identifier for your business, no matter its size.  Here's that post and the original, "So How Much for A Logo?"  Or, if you want to have another lesson here is one regarding the price some folks charge for logo design. Can you spell $1,000,000? Yikes!

Logos - Round Two - ebay

This week ebay launched their new look for their logo.  The idea is to help position ebay as a seller of goods and services beyond the "old auction model".  The existing logo served for well over 17 years.  The new, sleek piece uses the same color pattern but seeks to simplify and update.  Great lesson here about how to alter your logo without causing confusion and grumbling among your consumers.  Think...GAP?  

What's In A Title?

ABC News is finding out that Iowa may not be such a sleepy place as yesterday they got hit with a $1.2 billion lawsuit. The Iowa based company Beef Products, Inc. contends that ABC News spent lots of time talking about "pink-slime" a name coined to incorrectly describe "finely textured beef" a product made from beef and included in hamburger.  The consumer outrage/scare was enough to upset even 92 year old mothers (mine included) and close down several BPI plants which cost 700 jobs.  This is going to be interesting to watch. BPI has asked for a jury trial.  Here's the story from our friends at the Des Moines Register.

Lesson in Target Marketing

OK, so...let's say you want to boost your sales among young males.  What do you do? Perhaps your TV ad shows some great food, cooking on a BBQ.  Nah...that's pretty tame.  Maybe show that same food being cooked on that BBQ in the hot...sun by a couple of...babes? BOING!  We got ourselves a lesson in target marketing.  Here's the ad.

 

Oh, one other thing.  For those of you who think writing, filming, directing, and editing good TV ads is something you get from your local television station...you know for...free?  Have a look at this post for the back-story of the ad creation. Notice something?  Lots of people and a long day of shooting.  Come on...pay attention.  ;-)

Class Act - Car Dealers

Once upon a time we called out Toyota of Des Moines regarding a "fund raising adventure" after an tragedy.  General Manager, Steve Luebke objected but, we understand why.  However, we truly wish more car dealers would use this professional approach to their advertising rather than...shouting at us.  Toyota of Des Moines, in their TV ads (which we couldn't find) shows Luebke as a rational, professional and polite "car guy".  Nice branding and we like.  Here is a piece we found from a 2001/2012 series that, while the camera work could have been better, gives a hint at how they think.

 

And...nope...nobody paid us a dime.  We just think it's cool.

Re-Launch of the Social Media Club of Des Moines

Re-launch events are always fun and this one was no different.  Held at the new Exile Brewery in downtown Des Moines the event attracted nearly 100 folks interesting in Social Media and how they might help themselves and their business use these tools to do a better job at expanding their marketing/sales footprint.  We had several questions about "What's Next".  Those were answered by our friend Suzanne Hull in the comment section of this post,"We're In...Now What".

Gosh kids...gotta go!  Thanks for coming by and feel free to share.  Have a superior weekend!

The Friday Wrap - July 27, 2012

Each Friday Morning we produce The Friday Wrap a look at advertising, marketing and business stories you might have seen...but laced with our commentary.  We do this to help your business keep ahead of the curve.  If you would like to comment here...feel free.  Or let's connect on Twitter @InsightADV or here is our advertising agency Facebook Page.  Let's go:

JC Penny Troubles - It's Not Design

Early this year JC Penny rolled out a new media look.  We said then, and yet today, how much we liked the idea that "less is best" when it comes to their design. However sales...slumped.  Badly.  The question then, "Is the design bad or is the message bad?"  It's the message.  The company changed, twice, their idea of pricing and they failed to educate their consumers.  Confusion set in and sales plummeted. It's a great lesson for you.  Do not be afraid to alter your "look" because that gets eyeballs. However, altering your media look and failing to alter your media message clearly is a recipe for disaster.  BTW a new pricing for JC Penny starts August 1...just in time for back to school.  Here's the story, in detail, from our friends at the Los Angeles Times. 

Facebook & Business

Yesterday Michael presented 5 in 24 a short seminar about five things your business can do in twenty-four hours that will have a major impact on your ability to attract more customers.  One of the attendees asked a question about Facebook and business. It was a great question so we thought we'd share the answer here.  If your company has made the decision to leave traditional media (Print, Radio, TV, etc.) in favor of social media (Facebook, Twitter, Blogs) we want you to start your exit plan.  Social Media should be part of your overall marketing strategy but not the entire plan. One other thing...social media is not....FREE.  It takes hours and a well thought out method.  Our experience is that most business owners fail when it comes to really understanding and working social media.  But...there is...help. (hint, hint)

Brand Clarity

The seminar (5 in 24) yesterday was for members of the Johnston Chamber of Commerce. One of the topics is Brand Clarity. Here is a very short video that demonstrates what happens when your message is not clear....

 

Take note JC Penny...

Color - What Color?

We thought this very interesting.  What color does your "industry family" use?  You know, in the Hospitality Industry what colors are used more often?  Etc, etc... Our friends at Logo Design Love posted this piece from Emblemetric and we're passing it along to you. Oh, and the research goes back to 1884 and looks at 1.2 million logos. Here is the post...fun stuff.

Appreciation Marketing - How To

We've written about appreciation marketing and how that can have a major impact on sales.  This week we shared a partly personal story about Joey Tessman and stab at working with appreciation.  Just like his business...he did a great job.  Here's the post Appreciation Marketing - Works.  Take a lesson friends...

Social Media Cuts Both Ways

This week hasn't been good for "The Cows" of Chick-FIl-A.  Facebook and Twitter posts have blasted the chain's president over his "anti-gay" message.  We're not taking sides on this...because it's the type of thing that will sort itself out. Folks will buy from them...or not. However we've found an interesting story that...for all the "truth" Chick-Fil-A wants you to believe about them they have a slight problem with being fully transparent about...toys.  Here's an interesting story from our friends over at the New York Observer.  Honest...you'll get it.

BYOD - HUH?

More companies are finding employees like to BYOD... "Bring Your Own Device" to work.  No kidding.  Want to know more about this trend and what issues surround allowing the practice?  Here you go...from our friends at American Express Open.

Trade Show Booth Fun...

We've got lots of clients who do trade shows and many of them do a great job. However, that's not the case with so many booths we see.  Far too often they are cluttered, prevent attendees access to staff and just miss the mark.  We've posted countless times about how to better manage your trade show presence.  So do our friends at Skyline Display.  Here's a fun look at "16 Embarrassing Signs You Need a New Trade Show Display".  You will enjoy...and maybe recognize a couple of signs.

Have a Fantastic WEEKEND!

Friday Wrap Up - June 8, 2012

Each Friday we offer up some thoughts on advertising and marketing stories you may have seen...or missed.  Of course each is laced with our opinion.  If you want to connect with us you can leave a comment here or head to our advertising agency Twitter account or here is our agency Facebook Page.  Easy...  No?

Double Ouch - A PR Lesson?

Last week the Des Moines Register dropped a bomb on the Metro with the release
of several email messages between former Des Moines Public School Superintendent, Dr. Nancy Sebring and her married lover.  They were explicit and in the end resulted in her being denied a new job in Omaha. It's been a week and Mrs. Sebring is attempting, in court, to prevent the release of even more musings.  It's all a PR nightmare and we should be moving on.  Bottom line: Her career is finished, her marriage is done, the Board of Education has some 'splainin' to do and what more do you really want?  We think extending the fight in the courts is a bad move and only continues to story.  Wish we had been her PR link back in May.

The "Mom Test"

That story prompted us to write this piece about what you might consider before you write or say...anything.  Will your message, no matter the media, pass The Mom Test?  We think she offered some sound advice.

Brian Solis in Des Moines

Lot's of stories coming from this week's event sponsored by a host of companies and featuring our friend Brian Solis.  Over 220 people attended and heard some great social media stories including this:  The Connected Consumer.  The "Connected Consumer" joins the "Traditional Consumer" and the "Digital Consumer" but what they do before, during and after "the buy" will surprise you.  So are you connecting with the Connected Consumer?  Do you know how?  Know where they are and what they are saying about your product/service? Here's that article.  It's short and worth the read.

Getting "The Bird"

Notice something fellow Tweeps?  The Twitter Logo continues to...change in some subtle ways.  Here's a look from our friends at Logo Design Love.  Why?  Why would they mess around with such a well known label/logo?  Because in this world of social media everything changes...quickly.  And, why not?  However, this is a far cry from you messing around with your logo.  We do lots of logos for our clients but one thing we've noticed is that far too often what the client thinks is cool and what the consumer thinks is cool are, often, very different.  And..Remember this is social media...you...ain't. Tweet...

Boost Sales or Cut Costs?

Which is it or...can it be a little bit of both?  We really liked this piece from American Express Open.  The bottom line is that you may choose to cut costs but if you do recognize it is a "short term fix" that could bite you in the butt down the road.  Perhaps, and we agree, the wise idea is to boost sales.  HOW you do that will be critical to your long term success.  What do you think?  Here is the article written by Anne Mueller. 

We've Said It Before...But...

We've encouraged our clients to build a solid business blog for...years.  We've offered up tips on how to make them successful and what you need to do for the long term viability of your product/service. (This about the Corporate Blog from 2009)  Blogging is not dead but, we've seen some pretty "dead blogs".  Here's Seven Ways Business Blogs Build Success from our friend Heidi Cohen.  Maybe you'll believe her?

That's it...short and sweet.  Have a Fantastic Friday and a Wonderful Weekend. Thanks for coming by! - Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications 

Insight on Business - August 17, 2011

Insight on Business News Hour with Michael Libbie is our Monday - Friday look at our world of  advertising, marketing and consumer trends.  We'll comb through some stories and share with you our opinion of what works...and what needs some work.  It's our attempt to help your business thrive in this economy or...any.  Thanks to Bindery One and NatraTurf for their support of this project.  Today....

Do-Dads & Widgets

It's always surprising to me how many "Do-Dad and Widget" companies are out there selling...stuff.  In our Metro there must be three dozen if not more.  But, it's something folks buy to give out to others and business must be good.  I've followed this blog from Exceptional Specialty Products for some time.  Just because it's fun (uhm...and my Bride authors the thing...OK?).  So, lots of people sell this stuff but I'm thinking creative is what really sells it.  Nice nails.

Speaking of Creativity...

Butter Cow 2012 continues to roll on in the GOP Presidential Campaign.  (I know ANOTHER post about Butter Cow 2012! - Hey, we're MILKING this for all it's worth!)  Yesterday my friend and "prankster", Jack Mathews, shared with me they have sold loads of t-shirts and having a blast at the same time.  A recent e-mail from New Jersey tied in President Obama's trip to Iowa with a way to sell even more.  Fun stuff and just what our country needs...a candidate who will walk the walk and moo the moo.   We'll be visiting with Butter Cow 2012 later in the afternoon as we head out to the great Iowa State Fair.  Oh, and who says you've got to be 25 to be..."creative"?  Yep, that's Jack creative and a bit over...40.

And The "No So Creative"

Do it yourself...logos?  That's right.  Now, thanks to the web, you no longer have to be bothered by pesky ad agencies and designers when you construct your "logo".   Uhmmmm.  I'd honestly not heard of this before but it seems, according to our friends at Logo Design Love, there are a number of websites out there where you can go and rip-off famous logo designs and use them for...yourself.  Seriously.  There is a slight problem...folks notice.  Maybe not right away...but they will. Here is the post from our friend Steve Douglas on the Perils of Do-It-Yourself Logos.  Be careful out there because once you buy the logo...and, as in this case, it's a rip-off you'll have some trouble getting your money back.  

And Now For Something...Different

Model Andrej Pejic is a...guy.  But he walks the runway as a man and a woman.  Here's a quick video from our friends at New York Magazine...their cover shoot.

 

I was just thinking, we don't have nearly that many people around when we do a photo shoot for clients.  Must charge more?

That's It & Thanks...

Thanks for coming by.  If you wish to leave a comment here, feel free to do so.  Or let's connect on Twitter:  @MichaelLibbie (personal and some business) or @InsightADV (all business baby!) and our agency Facebook Page is right here....where we post these...first.  Have a great Wednesday! - Michael

Insight on Business - August 2, 2011

Insight on Business News Hour with Michael Libbie is a look into our world of advertising, marketing  and consumer trends.  We'll share some stories and tips that are meant to help you create a larger marketing footprint for your product or service.  If you would like to leave a comment here...that's fine. We can also connect on our agency Facebook Page or on Twitter @MichaelLibbie or @InsightADV.  Thanks to NatraTurf and Bindery One for their support of this project.

We've Been Busy

Over the past several months we've been working on packaging.  It's a new line of products for our client, NatraTurf.  The goal was to create containers that were colorful, informative and geared toward individuals interested in lowering their dependence on chemical fertilizers.  In total there are five new items that will hit shelves next year.  Love to show you all of them...but not yet.  Here is a peak at the front of one product called Triplicity a registered trademark...  We expect to have additional alterations before we move on creating the final artwork...we're just proud of the combined efforts of our team.  Thank you!

We Like This...

If you've followed us for sometime you know we have a passion for creative logos.   Things that are out of the ordinary.  Here's a great example.  The work was done for an historic pub in South London known as The Armoury.  We love the way the design team used the cannon and cannon-ball idea in creating everything from signs to menus.  Very...very nice.  Here is the full story from our friends at Logo Design Love.  Go ahead...you'll enjoy.  We're sharing this with you because it's different and fun...and it will boost the identity of the pub and that will boost sales.  You can do more than just have a sign...

Knowing Saves Money

Over the years I've been involved in dozens of discussions about farm shows.  And, now that we have a global economy in agriculture, those decisions on where to exhibit and why have turned our attention to world-wide considerations.  But, there is a huge problem.  Our clients can't afford to go to every trade show in the world so they have to pick the ones that match their consumer base.   How do you do that?  Enter our friend Tobias Eichberg who, for years, has been an expert in trade show displays and managing trade show booths.  He has created the Eichberg Ag Trade Show Report which shows, in detail, the inside story of hundreds of farm shows from...everywhere.  Here's a quick video...

 

We think it's fantastic and if you're into agri-business and want knowledge before you make a commitment to attend and display.  Contact Tobias...he'll be happy to sell you a copy.

Advertising and Public Broadcasting

We like to place our clients into selected PBS shows.  The following is loyal, engaged and they are in the mood to learn.  However, most "ads" for public broadcasting aren't much to look at and they all come before or after a program airs.  The folks who program PBS know that and they are trying to find balance between informative and interesting shows...and ad placement.  Two months ago they announced they would start looking at ways to place ads within programs.  Look for some roll outs this fall.  Here's the full story from our friends at Broadcasting and Cable.  Your take-a-way is this:  Finding a niche within PBS for your product or service not only expands your reach while increasing your brand image...it's also a bargain.

Thank You...

Thanks for coming by we hope you've gained a little and perhaps came up with an idea...or two.  Have a fantastic Tuesday! - Michael 

 

Insight on Business - July 15, 2011

Advertising, Marketing & Consumer Trends...it's what we do and each day Insight on  Business News Hour with Michael Libbie has several stories and tips to help you grow your market share.  Thanks for coming by...and thanks to NatraTurf and Bindery One for their support in this project.  So...what's cooking today?

"Thrilla At The Grilla"

It started out pretty...simple.  A group of folks sitting around a lunch table talking about promotions.  Georgie Pease, my bride and idea woman, sat with management of the Urbandale Hy-Vee talking about "stuff to do".  That's when the subject of grilling came up.  Who was the best?  Who could out grill the other?  That conversation started "Thrilla at the Grilla" (video) taking place today at 4PM at the Urbandale Hy-Vee.  Chef Jackson and Chef  Curtis will square up and hold the "grill off".  The price for a meal is $6 with $3 going to the corporate Hy-Vee charity, the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.  Why am I telling you this?  Because sometimes the most interesting ideas come from...conversation.  And...when you marry a promotion to cause marketing...it works.  Your turn...what can you build for your business and your community that is fun, helpful and builds your brand?

Control What You...Can

This week there was a flap generated when Jake Blitsch, who was working with the American Legion Boys State Program at the Iowa National Guard Gold Star Museum,  asked "volunteer Phil" why the center only displayed the photo of Governor Terry Branstad and not President Obama.  The answer, printed in a letter to the editor of the Des Moines Register, given to Mr. Blitsch by "Phil" was that because the president never served in the military his photo was not displayed.  When "Phil" was reminded that the president is also the Commander in Chief of the military "Phil" responded with, "He may be your Commander in Chief, but he's not ours."  Ouch...  We called the Gold Star Museum for their take but, at release time, we've not heard.  However, this points to a very serious issue for your business.  You can't control everything...but some things clearly are within your ability.  Making sure whoever wears your brand stays out of personal feelings about politics might be a good place to start.

Logos That...WORK

Those of you who follow this piece know that we also follow Logo Design Love.  It's just a fun place to get...information about something we do plenty of...designing logos for products and business.  Here's one that we thought we'd share.  It is for Organ Donations.  Specifically the Committee for Organ Donation in Lebanon.  What works with this is...simple.  And...when you're trying to get across the mission of your product/business...simple...rules.  So, you still want to create you own logo?   Or ask us, "So, how much for a logo?"  Our answer is still the same.  We don't know...it all depends on...what you are trying to...say.  And, if you want to say it...well.

Dangers Of E-Mail

E-Mail...sucks...when doing creative.  There, I've said it.  We work with clients from across the country and there seems to be a proclivity for some to try to give direction/suggestions/input via...e-mail.  Stop it.  Easy messages are great but when you are working on some serious stuff a 15 word e-mail doesn't cut it. Face to face is great but when that doesn't or can't happen...pick up the dang phone.  Let's talk.  So, what do you think?  Really, am I just...old?  Never mind...don't answer that.

That's It & Thank YOU!

Thanks for a fantastic week, for reading this and your comments and suggestions.  If you want to continue to conversation you can leave a comment here, follow us @InsightADV or head to our agency Facebook Thingy...  Have a great weekend!  

Insight on Business News Hour - June 17, 2011

Insight on Business News Hour with Michael Libbie is a look at the world of advertising, marketing and  consumer trends.  I'll give you an hour of writing...you spend ten minutes and move your marketing to a new level.  Deal?  IoB is a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications and made possible through the support of Bindery One - www.Bindery1.com and NatraTurf www.NatraTurf.com Let's go:

What's Holding You Back?

Seriously...what's keeping your business from marketing correctly?  Money?  Time?  Not sure?  Because it's our craft, I'm always interested in why so many small to mid-size business people do the same marketing program they did...last year.  If they have a program at all.  So, I'm wondering do you think you're doing it right?  Why not explore something different?  Take an edge..  Do you have a feeling it could be better?  What's holding you back from exploding and gaining market share?   Share???

I'll Be In Trouble Now...

Speaking of being different.  My friend Josh Fleming from Lessing-Flynn called me yesterday and asked if I'd do a short video...doing the "Dougie".  Because I am Old, White and Jewish I had no idea what the hell he was talking about.  I'm sure the short video we did will have a huge impact on the marketing world...I'm just sure.  I'll give the nod to Josh to share...first.  Then we'll share with you.  It is...EPIC.  The image is from the video.  With apologies to my rabbi....

Do You Negotiate or Go to the Brink? 

It's crazy out there in politics and business.  We have become a nation of "I want it my way or I will shut you down!"  Is that really the way you should do business?  Thought about that when I read this piece from our friend Seth Godin.  What do you think?  Are you really ready to "risk it all" to get your way?  (Sorry about all these questions...but feedback it, we think, important.  You?)

Got...Light?

Last year, during an interview with my friend Tobias Eichberg of Eichberg Consulting, I asked him what the number one thing business could do to improve their trade show booth.  That one thing:  "Light".  So, if it works for trade shows...how about a retail shop, a restaurant...  It would make sense...  That's why I'm passing along this story from Martin Lindstrom forFastCompany.  Read the section on Nadia's Fire Sale.  Fits doesn't it?

Milk - Cookies & Breasts

Something that fits with the first story today...about marketing correctly and with an edge...comes this logo design from Milkmakers.  I subscribe toLogoDesignLove and I'm always caught by what they find and share with other creative types.  And, the packaging is very cool too.  Giving us an idea for a client that we're working with on new packaging for organic/natural dog treats.  See...you can learn something new.  Oh..and what are the odds a man designed this logo for Milkmakers?  Nah... 

Thanks and Thank You!

Thanks for coming by and spending ten minutes in our world.  Love to have you comment here, or connect with us on Facebook or Twitter @InsightADV have a fantastic day...and a great weekend! - Michael 

 

Insight on Business - June 5, 2011

Insight on Business News Hour with Michael Libbie (IoB)is a look at the world of advertising,  marketing and consumer trends.  You've got a business and searching for information on how to attract and retain consumers...that's us.  We'll give you an hour or so of research and writing and you give us ten minutes to learn.  And...it's still...free!  Whoot.  Insight on Business is a production of our advertising agency, Insight Advertising, Marketing & Communications and made possible by: BIndery One - A world class digital printer with direct mail facilities doing business nationwide, www.Bindery1.com and NatraTurf - Chemical Free Lawns and Gardens start...here: www.NatraTurf.com

What's In A Sign?

The other day I was stopped at a light and noticed this truck.  What caught my eye was the word "Technology".  That and the proud suggestion that "Tomorrow's technology is here today" if you do business with them.  What I found odd was a "technology" company with no website.  After all 98% of consumers searching for products/services turn first to the Internet.  What kind of company is this?  So I looked and I "think" it's an electrical construction company?  Maybe?  The point here is to share with you how important it is for your brand to match your...marketing.  Maybe it will...tomorrow?

But Did You Read It?

I received an e-mail today from Cameron Mattocks on behalf of Access America Transport, a trucking company.  He says, "I first learned about Insight Advertising,  Marketing & Communications through your website." (nice)"We currently serve other companies like yours with LTL (I have no idea...), partial loads, full truck loads and over-dimensional shipments."  Uhm...It's a stretch but maybe we might help a client find a transportation company...but we don't have a "traffic manager".  Point is, if you are going to pitch somebody something you might want to make sure you know what their needs might be?  But, they did get mention and I will forward the info on to our clients...

Logo Design - Time - Warner

Last month I posted about the "cost" of creating a logo that is unique and speaks to your particular brand.  Here's an interesting example of what went into the creative for the new Time/Warner logo.  The company wanted "both" eyes and ears on this project.  When standing alone it's hard to get...but add the words Time-Warner.    Here is the complete story from our friends at Logo Design Love.

Hot Pants & Go-Go Boots

Back when the skies were much more "friendly" the folks at Southwest Airlines kicked off their 1972 national marketing campaign with ads designed around a little...sex.  The company had started a year earlier with three airplanes.   "Remember what it was like....?"

 

Southwest still loves to have fun...and loves to have you love them.  We do.  While other airlines treat consumers like cargo...Southwest is different.  Brings us to your business:  How do you treat your customers...can you have a little fun with them and still be "in business"?  We think so. Here is an engaging story from The Economnist.

That's It and Thank You!

Hope some of this gives you an insight into your marketing ideas.  If you want to learn more and carry on the conversation join me on Twitter @MichaelLibbie or @InsightADV.  Our agency Facebook Page his here or leave a comment below.   As always, thank you for coming by.  - Michael