Absolute Marketing Tips

Check out an article by  Political commentator Cenk Uygur http://tinyurl.com/b5llo2 about Kellogg’s decision to not extent Michael Phelps contract because of a picture of him smoking marijuana coming to light.

Uygur argues that in 2009 this type of Brand protection doesn’t make sense and is out of date.   He goes on to say that Kellogg’s have insulted a huge chuck of the population by saying this type of behaviour is wrong. 

What about the insult to the other 58% of people who haven’t smoked marijuana?  This really made me think about society today.  I 100% agree with Kellogg’s decision.  Michael Phelps is a national hero.  Somebody that people look up, admire and want to be like.  Why should a brand that promotes their products to children align themselves with such behaviour.  It is like saying, what the hell, do what you like, we still support you. 

Whilst 42% of Americans have admitted to smoking marijuana, I bet they didn’t do it in front of their family, children or boss?

There is a time and place for everything and this isn’t the time for a national hero to be endorsed by such a worldwide brand.

When will society learn that our actions have consequences?  I am sick of people thinking that they can do what they want, when they want and nobody will say a word.  Just look at the state of the governments and political parties across the world. 

Brand’s need to protect their image and also the image of the customers who buy into them.

Good for you Kellogg’s you have my vote.

Kingsmill has opened a cafe - the Kingsmill Breakfast Kitchen.  On Little Portland Street in London.

It is serving free tea and wholegrain toast to communters to raise awareness of its “Wake up to Wholegrain Breakfast Campaign”

The secret to marketing is to take your produce to where your customers are and get them to sample it.

Opening a cafe is expensive, but I would be interested to see their sales results over the coming months and also their market share value.

Times are changing, customers have more power today.

How is your business adapting to this change of power?

Customers are being very selective with their time and with advancements in technology, they are able to seek out and find all the things that are important to them.  Plus they can find reviews and feedback on everything from CD’s to holidays.

One of the best ways to get involved is to join the online conversation using social media.

I am asked daily, what does social media involve.  All it really is any way that you can have a two way conversation with your customers, friends and family using technology.  Think about Facebook, My Space, review sites like Amazon, Forums, Blogs, Twitter, MSN and your own Website.

Here are my five top tips to getting involved:  Find out where your customers and potential customers hang out.  Listen to their conversations and then join in.

1. Observe - listen to the conversations.  Find out what their problems are.  Identify ways you can solve them.
2. Don’t Jump In - Think about how you can take part in the conversation.  You don’t want to come across as saleys, this will give the wrong impression and potential will lock you out of the conversation.  If the talk is negative, look at how you can put it right.  Be honest and supportive.
3. Be Social - Don’t talk about you, all the time! Engage your customers, take an interest.
4. Give - Always offer something of value.  Most importantly do it for free>
5. Do it - Don’t wait, perfect as you go.  Ask yourself what the cost would be if you don’t get involved.

Yesterday, I had lots of fun recording a five minute audio on How to Grow your Business Online at the fabulous Space Studios in Cardiff.  We are going to use it on our website, make it available to download via an MP3 and also put it on a CD for people to listen to in the car.

From one product, I can use this to market my business in three different ways.

Let me know how you use social media in your business.

I can’t seem to understand why RBS are still allowed to sponsor the Six Nations?

Having worked for Coca Cola for two years, I know how long it takes to put a sponsorship deal together.

However, with the current economic climate, why is a bank that is struggling (being polite) allowed to continue to market themselves at the countries biggest rugby tournament!

Has anyone thought about the customers? What effect will this have on the brand

I am glad that I don’t bank at RBS.

What do you think?

This week is National Chip Week.  Celebrating the nations favourite stable food - Chips!

Top Tip:  Go for the chucky ones, they absorb less fat then skinny ones.