I've been writing this blog for a few months, but have done very little to promote it. My theory was to get going for a while, build up a catalog of posts, then start reaching out for fame and fortune (well, at least boost my subscribers.)
I've been writing this blog for a few months, but have done very little to promote it. My theory was to get going for a while, build up a catalog of posts, then start reaching out for fame and fortune (well, at least boost my subscribers.)
Posted at 09:46 AM in 2009 Planning | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Looking around these days, and you can't help think that the deepening recession is in part due to fear. People are cutting back, as are companies, because they fear the worst. In some respects, it's a self-fulfilling cycle.
Posted at 08:10 AM in 2009 Planning | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
No matter where you look these days, the numbers are daunting. Unemployment is nearing double figures. Fourth quarter was dismal, and first may be even worse. Seems cost cutting is the only way to gain leverage in this worsening economy.
Posted at 08:00 AM in 2009 Planning | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
It's Sunday night, and, man, am I ready to get back to work. I've been home since 12/18 taking care of two kids under 5 years, and a wife recovering from foot surgery. Now, I'm an engaged dad and all, but this was something different. It called for an entirely new approach: a dramatic simplification of the holidays. I stripped away a lot of the fluff, and guess what: we didn't miss it.
Posted at 10:15 PM in 2009 Planning | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
My eBook "Simplinomics" is published today, and available for download immediately. The intention of this eBook is to help simplify the often confusing macro-economic, environmental and social forces swirling around business and marketing professionals today, and to provide immediate, actionable insights on the communications landscape that will help business and marketing planning for 2009 and beyond.
I've been expanding on the concepts in this book, and plan to publish follow ups, eventually in a full-blown hardcopy. For now, I'd love for you to take a look and give me your thoughts.
Also, today we launch the new agency website at www.cerconebrown.com. Finally, we have something that gives a good look into our work, philosophy, agency structure, etc. Some of the highlights are our campaigns for Quiksilver, GMAC Insurance, Nalgene, Royal Robbins, Sperry Top-Sider and Cognos. The CBC blog will also be a place to keep up on the news, including our new New York office and staff expansions.
It was created by Overdrive Interactive, the same folks that handle Harley Davidson, LoJack, John Hancock and many other great brands. They are without a doubt the smartest interactive guys around, and they're a breeze to work with. In fact, we use them for many of our social media and online campaigns.
As always, thanks for reading!
Posted at 09:10 AM in 2009 Planning | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Much of this space is dedicated to the notion that, if managed correctly, the massive changes afoot today in business and society can actually become a boon for most companies. It stands to reason then businesses must alter their approach to sales and marketing for 2009, and not look overly to the past as an indicator of how to successfully navigate the current downturn.
Continue reading "Fighting the CFO: New Rules for Marketing in a Recession" »
Posted at 07:02 AM in 2009 Planning | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)
Up until October, it was pretty clear that companies needed to figure out a social responsibility platform to stay relevant with consumers. We had begun coming out of the "greenwashing" phase, and (it seemed) most organizations were realizing that real actions, and real commitments, are not only the right things to do, they are cornerstones of smart business.
1) Consumers are looking for more meaning in marketing
2) During a recession, consumers still value brands' commitment to social purpose
3) New insights in 2008 include people's expectations about social action at home and from government
4) Consumers are more involved than ever in social action
5) Social purpose bests brand design and innovation
Granted, a study of what people say they prefer can never actually predict behavior. It may be that ideals remain unchanged, but purchase decision during tough times may be more price driven than people will freely admit (even to themselves).
Either way, this study clearly shows that social responsibility, sincere communications, transparency and authenticity are characteristics that consumers will continue to demand. The bottom line: causes must be front and center in your marketing programs in 2009.
Posted at 09:21 AM in 2009 Planning | Permalink | Comments (0) | TrackBack (0)