(802,4,'2010-06-28 11:39:56','2010-06-28 16:39:56','Promotion is one of the four \"Ps\" of marketing (the others being price, product, place).  You can\'t market effectively without promotion, and in fact, marketing communications is all about promotion. MarComm people don\'t deal with price, product or place, other that to give input.\n\nSo, to sell a product, a service or an idea, you will promote. Promotion could go many ways, from traditional advertising, to blogging, to a public relations campaign.  That\'s all fine and good. However, with the rise of social media as a prime promotion vehicle, we run into some problems.  In social media, we rely on user-generated content, whether through blog entries or sharing thoughts and ideas via social networks.  We now have the term \"citizen journalist.\"\n\nEnter <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Wikepedia\" href=\"http://www.wikipedia.org/\" target=\"_blank\">Wikipedia</a>. Wikipedia is an online, USER-GENERATED encyclopedia. Anyone can contribute to Wikipedia. There is very little if any editorial control over content.  Products, people, historical events, music and any number of other topics are covered over at Wikipedia. Wikipedia entries tend to come up pretty high in Google searches too.  It seems obvious that someone looking to promote something or someone would add a Wikipedia entry.  Right?\n\nFrom a marketing perspective alone, of course you would add Wikipedia as a target for your social media/SEO/SEM efforts. It makes complete sense. However, as a consumer you have to be wary. If anyone can post anything on Wikipedia, then how accurate is that information? Can you rely on in? Should you rely on it? Are people questioning what they find on Wikipedia and if so, how is that affecting Wikipedia entries?\n\nI don\'t have the answers to this.\n\nYou have all heard of personal branding right? And personal branding has everything to do with promotion, and more specifically, self-promotion. You see people on Twitter promoting links to their blogs, to their parties, to their businesses. This is OK (although I have a problem with people who endlessly self-promote but that is another blog post).  And to link it back to Wikipedia, individuals are now creating Wikipedia entries about themselves.  Again, it makes sense on a macro-scale.\n\nStill, perhaps I am  being \"old school\" but a self-provided entry on Wikipedia is meaningless. A third party endorsement, like an article in a newspaper, has much more weight. Presumably, the third party (perhaps a journalist) did some fact-checking. If I can put down whatever I want in Wikipedia, what is stopping me from inflating reality or straight-out making stuff up? And worse, people think of Wikipedia as a real source for information, not unlike an Encyclopedia Britannica.\n\nThe bottom line is this: maybe using Wikipedia to promote yourself or your product is a good strategic, social-media-savvy move, but is it ethical?\n\nWhat do you think?\n\n\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F06%2F28%2Fwiki-promotion-and-self-promotion%2F&amp;linkname=Wiki%20promotion%20and%20self-promotion\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Wiki promotion and self-promotion','','publish','open','open','','wiki-promotion-and-self-promotion','','','2010-06-28 11:39:56','2010-06-28 16:39:56','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=802',0,'post','',0),
(806,4,'2010-07-05 09:59:58','2010-07-05 14:59:58','Over the past five years, since I moved to Washington, I have seen the Washington Post decline as its price continues to climb. When I got here, you could get the paper for 50 cents. Now, it is 75 cents. Subscription costs also continue to rise. And yet, the paper gets smaller and more irrelevant. It\'s almost like the Post wants to get rid of its subscribers and print edition readers.\r\n\r\nHere are several questionable moves the Post has engaged in over the past couple of years:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Increased subscription rates and got rid of the ability to pay for more than 8 weeks at a time (there used to be an option to pay for 12 weeks, etc., thus locking in a price)</li>\r\n	<li>Made TV Week opt-in and then charged 15 cents for each copy</li>\r\n	<li>Got rid of separate business section and folded it into front section</li>\r\n	<li>Created Capital Business \"for subscribers only\" and is charging $50 per year for it</li>\r\n	<li>Posts print content online a day or two before it is published, effectively making newspaper content available sooner to the entire world for FREE.</li>\r\n	<li>Cut back substantially on copy editors and other newsroom personnel, making the newspaper rife with errors (grammatical, spelling and factual)</li>\r\n	<li>Publishes the Express, a smaller version of the Post, for FREE</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nAll these moves seem (with the exception of publishing all content online for free) seemed to be designed to increase the Post bottom line AT THE EXPENSE OF ITS BASE.  The most loyal readers are those that pay to get the newspaper, and yet, the Post is basically screwing those readers by charging them MORE to get what others get for free.\r\n\r\nClearly, it is not a financially wise move to subscribe to the Post, so why do we continue to subscribe? Often, it is because of habit. Many of us still like reading a paper newspaper with our morning coffee.  And some of us love the puzzles. Otherwise, the printed Washington Post has NO value. Everything in the printed edition is available online, for free. If I want to take it with me, I can pick up an Express.  There is absolutely no financial incentive to subscribe. And the Post seems to be doing everything in its power to get me to stop subscribing.\r\n\r\nIf the Post continues down this path, it will reduce its circulation numbers substantially, which in turn will affect the amount of money they can charge advertisers. As ad revenue goes down, along with subscriber revenue, the newspapers bottom line will suffer. And then they will want to charge for online content.  Online readers will probably not pay since plenty of other quality content is available elsewhere for free.\r\n\r\nCan the Post reverse course? Probably not thus leaving us with a crappy newspaper we are paying more for...good thing some of us have birdcages to line.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F05%2Fis-the-washington-post-trying-to-alienate-subscribers%2F&amp;linkname=Is%20the%20Washington%20Post%20trying%20to%20alienate%20subscribers%3F\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Is the Washington Post trying to alienate subscribers?','','publish','open','open','','is-the-washington-post-trying-to-alienate-subscribers','','','2011-08-14 07:16:46','2011-08-14 07:16:46','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=806',0,'post','',1),
(810,4,'2010-07-06 09:50:02','2010-07-06 14:50:02','Any business that does not have a website in 2010 is probably at a huge disadvantage.  Back in the day, people used phone books to look things up. Not anymore. Google is the phone book of the 21st Century, and woe to those who are not being found by the search engine.\n\nBut you have a website, right? And not only do you have a website, you value your website too. You know it\'s as good as gold in getting business (or for nonprofits, supporters/volunteers/donors) for your product/service?  But, too many organizations take their website for granted. They either don\'t touch it once it is up or they are always changing it up.\n\nTake CNN.com for instance. The web site was redesigned a few months ago, and in my opinion, made it completely difficult to find the news, which, presumably, is what CNN offers. I used to visit CNN all the time. Now, I don\'t.  This is not to say that you should never redesign your website. You should. Your website should be as updated as possible.  Say I go to a restaurant\'s website, and the only menu posted is the winter menu. But it is summer.  You get my drift.\n\n<strong>Valuing your website means providing your visitors with what they need and expect.</strong>\n\nDo you value your website? How many of the following do you agree with?\n<ul>\n	<li>I had my website professionally designed</li>\n	<li>I have had a third-party evaluation of my website to check content, ease of navigation and usability.</li>\n	<li>My website is fully up to date</li>\n	<li>I have made sure to make my website search engine friendly</li>\n	<li>I have a list of keywords and I have used the on my website</li>\n	<li>I have a blog</li>\n	<li>I have a newsroom or similar in which I post my organization\'s latest news</li>\n	<li>My latest news is dated no earlier than 2010</li>\n	<li>My web host is reliable and I have very little if any downtime</li>\n	<li>I have made my website social media friendly (share buttons, Twitter/Facebook links, etc.)</li>\n</ul>\nHow did you fare? To really value your website, you should have agreed with most, if not all, of these statements.\n\nLisa Barone has written an excellent blog post:<a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"11 website tips\" href=\"http://smallbiztrends.com/2010/07/11-reasons-customers-don%E2%80%99t-trust-your-web-site.html\" target=\"_blank\"> 11 Reasons Customers Don\'t Trust Your Website</a>, which points out 11 things to watch out for.  And according to Daniel Kehrer at Small Business CEO, one of the <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"13 biz mistakes\" href=\"http://www.smbceo.com/2010/07/05/mistakes/\" target=\"_blank\">13 Mistakes that Can Jinx your Business,</a> is to let your website go dormant.\n\nValue your website. It is a primary source of business.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F06%2Fdo-you-value-your-website%2F&amp;linkname=Do%20you%20value%20your%20website%3F\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>\n\n','Do you value your website?','','publish','open','open','','do-you-value-your-website','','','2010-07-06 09:50:02','2010-07-06 14:50:02','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=810',0,'post','',0),
(817,4,'2010-07-12 11:33:42','2010-07-12 16:33:42','This past weekend I stayed in a hotel in Rochester, NY.  The hotel\'s website is nice, modern (although it has music) and tells me they have refurbished their rooms. In a tourist magazine that I picked up at the airport, the hotel has an ad that tells me that hot breakfast is included in the price. The website says only they offer \"complimentary breakfast.\"\r\n\r\nThe hotel does not offer a hot breakfast. It offers what is better known as a \"continental breakfast.\"  That is, a selection of muffins and breakfast pastries, cold cereals, fruit and yogurt. They also provide a microwave where you can reheat a Jimmy Dean breakfast muffin or heat up your instant oatmeal.  Nothing wrong with the complimentary breakfast but it is not a hot breakfast. Hot breakfast means eggs, waffles, pancakes and other cooked items. None of those were offered.\r\n\r\nAs for refurbishing--I think this means the hotel  added new linens and flat screen tvs.  The bathrooms seemed dated and nothing seemed particularly modern (certainly not the alarm clocks or the phones).  The room had a safe (not something you see very often in a hotel). In fact, the hotel highlights the safe as a room feature,not mentioning any where that they charge guests $1 per day just to have the safe, regardless of whether it is used or not.\r\n\r\nIn short, this hotel, while not bad, did not live up to its promises made on its website or in its advertising. It also failed to mention that something that they include in your hotel room is actually fee-based.\r\n\r\nIn this case, these lapses are not disastrous for the hotel.  However, generally, saying something in your marketing that is simply not true in \"real life,\"  will result in broken trust and lost customers. And yet, how many times have you seen ads that are inaccurate? Promises that start with free or assurance of 100s of satisfied customers. Marketers sometimes play hard and fast with these formulas, but if you product or service is not able to back it up, you are going to turn off your potential customers. It is that simple.\r\n\r\nLive up to your marketing promises, and be transparent.  Don\'t hit up customers with fees for services you seem to imply are included. Don\'t promise things you can\'t or won\'t deliver.  Customers will resent these things and will be cautious in choosing to do business with you again.\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F12%2Fare-you-keeping-your-promises%2F&amp;linkname=Are%20you%20keeping%20your%20promises%3F\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Are you keeping your promises?','','publish','open','open','','are-you-keeping-your-promises','','','2011-08-14 07:16:22','2011-08-14 07:16:22','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=817',0,'post','',0),
(1332,4,'2010-07-05 09:59:58','2010-07-05 14:59:58','Over the past five years, since I moved to Washington, I have seen the Washington Post decline as its price continues to climb. When I got here, you could get the paper for 50 cents. Now, it is 75 cents. Subscription costs also continue to rise. And yet, the paper gets smaller and more irrelevant. It\'s almost like the Post wants to get rid of its subscribers and print edition readers.\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=%22washington+post%22&amp;iid=4696897\" src=\"http://view4.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/4696897/washington-post-announces/washington-post-announces.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=4696897\" width=\"234\" height=\"156\" /]\n\nHere are several questionable moves the Post has engaged in over the past couple of years:\n<ul>\n	<li>Increased subscription rates and got rid of the ability to pay for more than 8 weeks at a time (there used to be an option to pay for 12 weeks, etc., thus locking in a price)</li>\n	<li>Made TV Week opt-in and then charged 15 cents for each copy</li>\n	<li>Got rid of separate business section and folded it into front section</li>\n	<li>Created Capital Business \"for subscribers only\" and is charging $50 per year for it</li>\n	<li>Posts print content online a day or two before it is published, effectively making newspaper content available sooner to the entire world for FREE.</li>\n	<li>Cut back substantially on copy editors and other newsroom personnel, making the newspaper rife with errors (grammatical, spelling and factual)</li>\n	<li>Publishes the Express, a smaller version of the Post, for FREE</li>\n</ul>\nAll these moves seem (with the exception of publishing all content online for free) seemed to be designed to increase the Post bottom line AT THE EXPENSE OF ITS BASE.  The most loyal readers are those that pay to get the newspaper, and yet, the Post is basically screwing those readers by charging them MORE to get what others get for free.\n\nClearly, it is not a financially wise move to subscribe to the Post, so why do we continue to subscribe? Often, it is because of habit. Many of us still like reading a paper newspaper with our morning coffee.  And some of us love the puzzles. Otherwise, the printed Washington Post has NO value. Everything in the printed edition is available online, for free. If I want to take it with me, I can pick up an Express.  There is absolutely no financial incentive to subscribe. And the Post seems to be doing everything in its power to get me to stop subscribing.\n\nIf the Post continues down this path, it will reduce its circulation numbers substantially, which in turn will affect the amount of money they can charge advertisers. As ad revenue goes down, along with subscriber revenue, the newspapers bottom line will suffer. And then they will want to charge for online content.  Online readers will probably not pay since plenty of other quality content is available elsewhere for free.\n\nCan the Post reverse course? Probably not thus leaving us with a crappy newspaper we are paying more for...good thing some of us have birdcages to line.\n\n\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F05%2Fis-the-washington-post-trying-to-alienate-subscribers%2F&amp;linkname=Is%20the%20Washington%20Post%20trying%20to%20alienate%20subscribers%3F\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Is the Washington Post trying to alienate subscribers?','','inherit','open','open','','806-revision','','','2010-07-05 09:59:58','2010-07-05 14:59:58','',806,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/07/806-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(822,4,'2010-07-15 08:44:28','2010-07-15 13:44:28','This is not a post about marketing communications per se, but it does have to do with communications.  This is also not in any particular order.\n\n<strong>Heads in the sand</strong>\n\nI wrote a few days ago about my stay in a Rochester hotel that did not live up to its advertising. Like I said then, there was nothing WRONG with the hotel, but it wasn\'t particularly right.  Since I made my reservation online, I got the following email from the hotel:\n<blockquote>Thank you for staying with us at the XXX. We sincerely hope you  enjoyed your visit with us and that we were able to exceed your expectations. We  look forward to serving you again when your travel plans bring you back to the XXX area.</blockquote>\nThey \"hope\" they exceeded my expectations. Well, they barely met my expectations but are they interested in knowing what my expectations and experiences were? No.  I responded to them that if they cared about my expectations they would ask for feedback, and guess what, I have gotten no reply to that.\n\nIf you want to stick your head in the sand about your product or service, you are doing so at your own peril. If you are wondering why sales are down or employee morale is low, perhaps you need to FIND OUT instead.\n\n<strong>How you present yourself (or, there are other people in the room)\n</strong>\n\nI was at a couple professional development events yesterday. In both cases, there was at least one audience member who, during the Q&amp;A, seemed to forget that there were other people in the audience. In the first case, the questioner went on and on about her business and finally got in a question (if asking a question that applies only to you is asking a question).  In the second case, the questioner shared a very personal, and in my opinion, inappropriate, story as a a set up to her comment (no real question).  Both these people clearly see the world as subordinate to their own personal needs and desires.\n\nThis last thought leads me t:\n\n<strong>Self promotion, arrogance and the cult of celebrity</strong>\n\nAlthough the rise of social media and citizen journalism is,in general, a good thing, there has also been a rise in the amount of people who think they are superior to all the rest of us, and now, because they can harness great followings and share their every thought with the masses, have become ubiquitous and often, quite obnoxious. I wrote recently about people who actually create Wikipedia entries for themselves (talk about arrogant), and yesterday, my friend and colleague, <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Daria Steigman\" href=\"http://www.steigmancommunications.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Daria Steigman</a> told me about the hoopla surrounding a \"famous\" PR person and a comment on a blog. Read the whole thing<a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Kami Huyse\" href=\"http://overtonecomm.blogspot.com/2010/07/i-dont-have-time-to-google-you-micro.html\" target=\"_blank\"> here </a>and draw your own conclusions.\n\nHowever, let me add my conclusion, I think Kami Huyse is generally right that people have become arrogant, but what she doesn\'t realize is that she herself is being arrogant by claiming \"I don\'t have time to Google you.\"  Why is her time more important? Now let me be clear--people who think that \"Google me\" is a response to other people who ask how to contact you or more about you are clearly arrogant. BUT, if I truly want to know more, chances are I WILL Google you.\n\nIn the end, it is up to each of us to give attention to the people we  respect. If we don\'t respect someone or we think they are arrogant, then let\'s NOT follow them or read their blogs or buy their books or attend their parties or whatever. Self-promoting and arrogant people will eventually lose their followings IF enough people realize that just because other people think someone is great does not mean that he or she really is great (after all, lots of people liked Stalin ...).\n\n\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F15%2Fsome-non-connected-thoughts%2F&amp;linkname=Some%20non-connected%20thoughts\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Some non-connected thoughts','','publish','open','open','','some-non-connected-thoughts','','','2010-07-15 08:44:28','2010-07-15 13:44:28','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=822',0,'post','',2),
(828,4,'2010-07-19 10:38:51','2010-07-19 15:38:51','Sometimes it\'s what you don\'t do or say that hurts you.\n\nThis is what I am talking about:\n<ul>\n	<li>When you don\'t say thank you</li>\n	<li>When you don\'t acknowledge a phone call or an email</li>\n	<li>When you don\'t respond</li>\n	<li>When you don\'t say \"I\'m sorry\" when you are in the wrong</li>\n	<li>When you don\'t do what you say you are going to do</li>\n</ul>\nThese omissions hurt you both personally and professionally. On a personal level, we know these types of non-actions lead to misunderstandings and hurts. They often ruin relationships. On a professional level, they are just as damaging, if not more, since there is a monetary aspect involved.\n\nLet\'s take a few professional examples. Say you are a charity, and you received a donation (the amount really doesn\'t matter). You don\'t acknowledge or thank the donor. What are the chances the donor will <strong>want </strong>to give to you again?\n\nSay you are a consultant, and you promised your client you would have the report by end of the week. The client is waiting on this report to make a big decision. You don\'t deliver. What happens? You\'ve let down the client, and you have seriously undermined your credibility.\n\nYou you get an inquiry about your product or service. You don\'t respond (excuses don\'t matter!). You have just lost potential business.\n\nPerhaps you are overworked and overwhelmed. Perhaps the message got lost. Perhaps you just didn\'t think about it.  In the end, no matter what the reason or excuse is, the result is the same. Not saying or doing or not being civil and polite creates a perception about you, about what you value, about how you interact with others.\n\nPerhaps you just don\'t care how you are perceived.  However,  if you don\'t care about perceptions, then you shouldn\'t be in marketing communications.\n\nMarCom is about creating positive perceptions for the product/service/organization/cause we are promoting. Being civil, being responsive, showing you care are part and parcel of creating positive perceptions.\n\nWhat do you think? Have you lost business because you didn\'t say or do what you should have said or done?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F19%2Fhow-what-you-dont-say-or-do-can-hurt-you%2F&amp;linkname=How%20what%20you%20don%27t%20say%20or%20do%20can%20hurt%20you\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','How what you don\'t say or do can hurt you','','publish','open','open','','how-what-you-dont-say-or-do-can-hurt-you','','','2010-07-19 10:38:51','2010-07-19 15:38:51','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=828',0,'post','',0),
(834,4,'2010-07-20 09:14:43','2010-07-20 14:14:43','What do you do when your CEO is giving you lots of PR problems? We\'ve been seeing a slew of PR missteps by CEOs, from Tony Hayward of BP to Ben Baldanza of Spirit Airlines.\n\nBen Baldanza seems to be quite the character. He recently said that luggage is not essential when traveling, and this is why Spirit is now charging for bringing carry-ons on board. BudgetTravel just wrote a post about it<a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"BudgetTravel\" href=\"http://current.newsweek.com/budgettravel/2010/07/it_turns_out_members_of.html?wpisrc=newsletter\" target=\"_blank\"> here </a>(and please read the comments, which is where we can start to see the PR dimensions).\n\nWhen the charge was announced earlier this year (it will start being implemented in August), Baldanza set out an letter to his email subscribers describing how carry-on fees actually make flying cheaper.  Anybody who has a half-brain and has flown anywhere before knows that this is simply spin. When you have to pay to check baggage and you have to pay to check carry-ons, it doesn\'t matter how cheap airline tickets seem because you will end up paying more.\n\nSteve Jobs recently showed a considerable degree of hubris when telling journalists that the way people were holding the IPhone 4 was responsible for the loss of signal. Huh? Inc. Magazine has a great article about this misstep <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Inc Magazine\" href=\"http://www.inc.com/tech-blog/a-is-for-apple-and-arrogance.html\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>.\n\nI am not even going to discuss Tony Hayward.\n\nUnfortunately, many people in leadership positions do not have leadership qualities.  These folks tend to be arrogant, often believe that they know best and that underlings should remain quiet. It is not easy to deal with this situation professionally, but it is nearly impossible to rectify from a public relations perspective.\n\nThese cases illustrate a real conundrum for marketers. The CEO is the  public face of any company, and if he or she is saying things that hurt  the company, what do you do? Chances are the CEO is the one with the  ultimate power to hire or fire PR counsel. Or the person who refuses to  listen to counsel.\n\nAs PR counsel in this type of case, you are in a delicate position. The best thing to do is to point out how the CEO may be affecting the bottom line. You may need statistics, like sales or stock prices. Make a case as to what should be done, and why it will be better. If your CEO refuses to listen to you, he/she may listen to outside counsel.\n\nThere is a chance your CEO will not listen to anyone and he/she may bring the ship down. Is there a recourse? Probably stockholders or your board of directors are interested in remaining profitable and keeping the public happy.  If no one seems to think bad PR is a problem, well then you really have a problem!\n\nWhat do you think?','When your CEO is giving you PR nightmares','','publish','open','open','','when-your-ceo-is-giving-you-pr-nightmares','','','2010-07-20 09:14:43','2010-07-20 14:14:43','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=834',0,'post','',0),
(837,4,'2010-07-21 07:53:27','2010-07-21 12:53:27','Yesterday, I talked about nightmare CEOs. And today, I came across two very good business articles, one about the biggest brand disasters of the year,  and the other about the decline in crisis PR. It seems to me that perhaps the lack of good crisis communications strategy is directly to blame for these brand failures.\n\n<a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Daily Finance brand disasters\" href=\"http://www.dailyfinance.com/story/company-news/the-10-biggest-brand-disasters-of-2010/19560366/\" target=\"_blank\">Daily Finance lists a top ten list of brand disasters,</a> which include:\n<ul>\n	<li>BP</li>\n	<li>Goldman Sachs</li>\n	<li>Toyota</li>\n	<li>Google</li>\n</ul>\nEach of these companies had plenty of headlines this year, most of them negative. But what made each of their particular situations worse was the inappropriate reactions from their CEOs, and their response to the situation.\n\nIt seems fairly clear to me that although the situations that each company faced were bad, the public response to the situations made the situations even worse. In Toyota\'s case, the first response to reports of accidents tied to flaws in their vehicles was DENIAL. Toyota insisted for some time that there was nothing wrong with their vehicles, that the people were somehow to blame. Then, they insisted that small fixes were needed--like with the floor rugs (come on, the floor rugs cause sudden acceleration?). Finally, they had to face the music as the government stepped in with all sorts of evidence, but the damage was already done.\n\nAccording to <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Crisis PR\" href=\"http://www.thebigmoney.com/articles/judgments/2010/07/20/crisis-crisis-pr?page=0,0\" target=\"_blank\">Matthew DeBord, writing in Big Money,</a> the problem may lie in the 24-7 Internet news cycle, and the inability of PR firms to adapt to the new realities. He writes:\n<blockquote>But now, the new crisis paradigm is spinning hopelessly in the dark.  By mid-2010, the stories were changing too rapidly to control, much less  revise. Like a violent postmodern vortex, the bad news sucked down all  who struggled to escape it. Unsurprisingly, the Internet is to blame.  But it goes beyond the 24/7 news-and-comment cycle, and forces the PR  world to confront something far more disruptive—and something that will  undercut its $700-per-hour fees.\n\nThe lesson now for companies that screw up is that you really have no  chance: The currents are against you from the get-go. The courts of  Twitter and online video sharing and the forming of Facebook groups to  deplore the transgressions of an enterprise will overwhelm even the most  crafted crisis battle plan. The profession, quite simply, is at a  crossroads. And it isn’t in a position to ride out the bumps, because  it’s up against the kind of high-altitude turbulence that can shred the  airframe.</blockquote>\n<strong>There is no doubt that with Twitter, YouTube, blogs and the rest, bad news travels fast, faster than good news for sure! No news is not good news--it is an opportunity for bad news to stay at the top of people\'s minds.</strong>\n\nCompanies and organizations who want to avoid first-class meltdowns must invest in crisis planning and strategizing. If the big names like Toyota and BP can suffer the erosion from bad news, what makes smaller companies think they will survive a crisis?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F21%2Fis-the-lack-of-crisis-pr-to-blame-for-brand-failure%2F&amp;linkname=Is%20the%20lack%20of%20crisis%20PR%20to%20blame%20for%20brand%20failure%3F\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Is the lack of crisis PR to blame for brand failure?','','publish','open','open','','is-the-lack-of-crisis-pr-to-blame-for-brand-failure','','','2010-07-21 07:53:27','2010-07-21 12:53:27','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=837',0,'post','',0),
(841,4,'2010-07-29 06:57:33','2010-07-29 11:57:33','For some, giving a speech is just part of the job. These people are constantly doing sales pitches or addressing the board. For others, giving a speech is an opportunity to establish their credentials or gain more visibility. In any case, not everyone is a good speaker, and some people have really annoying habits when giving a speech.\n\nI was at a two-day conference last week and I heard A LOT of speeches. Some were good, some were fine and some were just plain annoying. Here is a list of actual behaviors observed last week. If you are giving a speech, please keep your audience in mind and try to avoid any of these!\n\n<strong>Talking too loudly:</strong> do not  yell into a microphone please!\n\n<strong>Talking too softly</strong>: yeah, the microphone amplifies your voice, but won\'t help if you are whispering. Besides, to me talking softly means that you are unsure of yourself.\n\n<strong>Sounding unsure:</strong> mostly this happens when you end each and every sentence with a question mark, so your speech sound like  this: Hi? Today I am going to be talking about widgets? Widgets are the fastest growing segment in the market?\n\n<strong>Sounding too sure: </strong>also known as sounding arrogant or dismissive.\n\n<!-- 		@page { margin: 0.79in } 		P { margin-bottom: 0.08in } --><strong>Self promoting:</strong> say you are asked to talk about literature in the eighteenth century, but all you talk about is the book you just wrote, inspired by the 18th century.\n\n<strong>Being off-topic:</strong> you were given a topic, try to address it. No one came to hear your views on extra-terrestrials if the topic was the planetary system.\n\n<strong>Hogging the spotlight:</strong> if you are speaking on a panel, that means the other people get to speak to. If you are told you have five minutes, we should not still be hearing from you fifteen minutes later.\n\n<strong>Not answering questions: </strong>this applies to speeches that have an audience Q&amp;A component. If you don\'t know the answer to a question, it is OK to say that you don\'t know. It is not OK to go off on a tangent or ignore the content of the question and add more time to your speech.\n\nDo you have any pet peeves about speeches? Any advice? Please share in the comments.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F29%2Fgiving-a-speech%2F&amp;linkname=Giving%20a%20speech%3F\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Giving a speech?','','publish','open','open','','giving-a-speech','','','2010-07-29 06:57:33','2010-07-29 11:57:33','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=841',0,'post','',0),
(846,4,'2010-07-30 07:08:47','2010-07-30 12:08:47','Marketing communications is a large, unwieldy term. It covers a bunch of stuff, from public relations to advertising, to printed materials and trade show displays. Really, marketing communications is any communications that helps to market your product/service/organization. This why you should consider customer communications also part of your marcom effort.\n\nLet me illustrate how a failure to communicate with customers can have a marketing impact:\n\nI ordered a book from one of the Amazon sellers (the individuals or businesses that sell books for cheaper than Amazon does).  I have done this many times before, in fact, just the week previous I had received both a book and a DVD I ordered this way. I received confirmation on July 6 that the order was received and on July 7 I got an email telling me that my order had shipped, and I could expect it any time between July 14 and 28.\n\nMy experience told me that usually it takes about a week to get your stuff, and I diligently checked with my front desk to see if my package had arrived. By July 21, two weeks after the seller said my stuff was shipped, there was no sign of the book. I started to suspect that a) they sent ground mail through China or b) that they had never sent it at all.  On July 24 I contacted the seller through their website. By Tuesday I had received no answer, so I contacted them through Amazon. The response was this:\n<p style=\"padding-left:30px;\">Thank you for your inquiry. We appreciate your patronage and interest in our  merchandise. Our records indicate that this order was shipped via USPS Bound  Printed Matter, which usually arrives within 4-14 business days. This method is  not traceable, and we cannot provide a definite date for delivery. We apologize  that there was confusion regarding the delivery times you could expect. The  listing for each item includes a statement \"usually ships in 1-2 business days\".  Although it does state that the item will be shipped in two business days,  delivery may take 4-14 business days. We have noticed that the expectation  created by these messages can create confusion and we are working diligently to  correct this situation. Please feel free to contact us if you have any  additional questions.</p>\nSincerely,\nCustomer  Service\nSuperbookdeals\nAB\n\n<strong>Notice how they tell me that Amazon is creating false expectations, and that they don\'t offer to do ANYTHING for me.</strong>\n\nBy July 28, officially the last day I could receive the package before filing a claim, I still had not received anything and wrote them again. This is their response.\n<p style=\"padding-left:30px;\">Thank you for your inquiry. We appreciate your patronage and interest in our  merchandise. Our records indicate that this order was shipped via USPS Bound  Printed Matter, which usually arrives within 4-14 business days. This method is  not traceable, and we cannot provide a definite date for delivery. We apologize  that there was confusion regarding the delivery times you could expect. The  listing for each item includes a statement \"usually ships in 1-2 business days\".  Although it does state that the item will be shipped in two business days,  delivery may take 4-14 business days. We have noticed that the expectation  created by these messages can create confusion and we are working diligently to  correct this situation. Please feel free to contact us if you have any  additional questions.</p>\nSincerely,\nCustomer  Service\nSuperbookdeals\nAB\n\nLook familiar? Same response as before. No attempt to resolve the situation, and no information whatsoever.\n\nI got the book on July 29.  The order, according to the invoice inside the package, had been processed on July 19 and had not shipped until July 21.  The seller sent the package two weeks later than they claimed to Amazon.  Basically, they lied. How likely am I to shop with these people ever again? Not very. In fact, I gave them the lowest rating and complained to Amazon about it.\n\nBetter customer communications would have nipped this problem in the bud. Say the seller wrote me and said we\'re sorry, we made a mistake with your order, and we were unable to ship when we promised. Wouldn\'t I have been more understanding? Of course I would. Instead, they sent me a canned response, taking absolutely no responsibility for the situation and actually blaming Amazon instead. Additionally, there is no good way to reach the seller directly nor a name of a person.\n\nCustomer communications are your one-on-one way to promote your company/service/organization. If you can\'t market one-to-one you should not be marketing on a larger scale.\n\nSadly, this turns me off from the Amazon seller program. It tells me that Amazon is not vetting its sellers enough and that you don\'t know what you are going to get.\n\nBottom line is if you want to keep your customers happy, do a good job communicating with them.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F30%2Fcustomer-communications-is-part-of-marcom%2F&amp;linkname=Customer%20communications%20is%20part%20of%20marcom\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Customer communications is part of marcom','','publish','open','open','','customer-communications-is-part-of-marcom','','','2010-07-30 07:08:47','2010-07-30 12:08:47','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=846',0,'post','',1),
(850,4,'2010-08-04 09:48:42','2010-08-04 14:48:42','This past weekend I took a little trip out to the beach in Rehoboth, Delaware. The weather was great and hanging out near the ocean is always relaxing. You see all types out on the beach but what struck me as I looked around was how many obese people were there. In fact, I am seeing more and more obese people everywhere. The<a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"NY Times\" href=\"http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/04/health/nutrition/04fat.html?_r=1\" target=\"_blank\"> New York Times reports that obesity rates are rising,</a> so it really is no surprise.  Pretty close to one out of three Americans is obese.\r\n\r\nAs the New York Times article points out, obesity is a national health epidemic. Obesity can be tied to many deadly diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.\r\n\r\nIs marketing to blame for obesity? On the boardwalk in Rehoboth it is hard to avoid the aroma of french fries and candied popcorn. Candy stores are everywhere, and healthy food is hard to find. There were a lot of people jogging on the boardwalk, but there were many more people just sitting on the beach. Fast food and junk food don\'t really have to market too much--they just have to be available. Which begs the question, if healthy options were available (and made to look as tantalizing), would people choose to buy those instead?\r\n\r\nIs there an effort being made by public health authorities to market a healthier lifestyle? I don\'t see any evidence of it. Obviously, it is hard to change people\'s habits. And when on vacation, people tend to want to reward themselves with treats like fried dough and salt water taffy. How many people want to use vacation to start a healthy eating plan? Not many--because it is not appealing.\r\n\r\nIf marketing has a fault in the obesity epidemic, is that not enough is being done to market healthy choices, or the benefits of  NOT being obese. Or perhaps, more should be done to show people the MORTAL DANGERS of obesity. It is not just about looks--our society certainly markets thinness as an equivalent to beauty--but about health. Fat people are at risk, and the sad thing is they can do something about it: eat less, exercise more.\r\n\r\nWhat are your thoughts? How can society convince people to stop piling on the pounds?\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F04%2Fa-big-fat-problem%2F&amp;linkname=A%20big%2C%20fat%20problem\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','A big, fat problem','','publish','open','open','','a-big-fat-problem','','','2011-08-14 07:15:33','2011-08-14 07:15:33','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=850',0,'post','',0),
(1331,4,'2010-07-12 11:33:42','2010-07-12 16:33:42','This past weekend I stayed in a hotel in Rochester, NY.  The hotel\'s website is nice, modern (although it has music) and tells me they have refurbished their rooms. In a tourist magazine that I picked up at the airport, the hotel has an ad that tells me that hot breakfast is included in the price. The website says only they offer \"complimentary breakfast.\"\n\nThe hotel does not offer a hot breakfast. It offers what is better known as a \"continental breakfast.\"  That is, a selection of muffins and breakfast pastries, cold cereals, fruit and yogurt. They also provide a microwave where you can reheat a Jimmy Dean breakfast muffin or heat up your instant oatmeal.  Nothing wrong with the complimentary breakfast but it is not a hot breakfast. Hot breakfast means eggs, waffles, pancakes and other cooked items. None of those were offered.\n\nAs for refurbishing--I think this means the hotel  added new linens and flat screen tvs.  The bathrooms seemed dated and nothing seemed particularly modern (certainly not the alarm clocks or the phones).  The room had a safe (not something you see very often in a hotel). In fact, the hotel highlights the safe as a room feature,not mentioning any where that they charge guests $1 per day just to have the safe, regardless of whether it is used or not.\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=promises&amp;iid=186404\" src=\"http://view2.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/186404/speed-limit-and-name-city/speed-limit-and-name-city.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=186404\" width=\"234\" height=\"351\" /]\n\nIn short, this hotel, while not bad, did not live up to its promises made on its website or in its advertising. It also failed to mention that something that they include in your hotel room is actually fee-based.\n\nIn this case, these lapses are not disastrous for the hotel.  However, generally, saying something in your marketing that is simply not true in \"real life,\"  will result in broken trust and lost customers. And yet, how many times have you seen ads that are inaccurate? Promises that start with free or assurance of 100s of satisfied customers. Marketers sometimes play hard and fast with these formulas, but if you product or service is not able to back it up, you are going to turn off your potential customers. It is that simple.\n\nLive up to your marketing promises, and be transparent.  Don\'t hit up customers with fees for services you seem to imply are included. Don\'t promise things you can\'t or won\'t deliver.  Customers will resent these things and will be cautious in choosing to do business with you again.\n\n\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F07%2F12%2Fare-you-keeping-your-promises%2F&amp;linkname=Are%20you%20keeping%20your%20promises%3F\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Are you keeping your promises?','','inherit','open','open','','817-revision','','','2010-07-12 11:33:42','2010-07-12 16:33:42','',817,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/07/817-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(855,4,'2010-08-09 10:10:44','2010-08-09 15:10:44','Let me make a blanket statement: if you can\'t communicate, you can\'t lead. Leaders need, above all, to be able to communicate, because without communication, they will have no followers and no impact. This is why we prefer loquacious, friendly people as leaders. They want to communicate and they do it well. Tight-lipped, terse people do not inspire following. In fact, people shy away from this type of person.\n\nRecently, a volunteer-run, non-membership based group here in DC had a crisis in leadership. The president gave birth and is on maternity leave, and her second-in-command is on paternity leave at the same time.  There is a vacuum at the top. But what is most disturbing about this is that there has been no communication about this vacuum from this communications group!!!  They have a blog, and it has not been updated since June.  Impending motherhood is fairly predictable in that you know you will have a baby, and even near which date. If you are a leader of a group, perhaps you can make some plans for your absence and COMMUNICATE them? BTW, to my knowledge, this group does not have a Twitter feed or a Facebook page. They do have a group on LinkedIn.\n\n<strong>If you don\'t communicate with your followers, your followers have no way of knowing what is going on. If they think you are no longer there, they will no longer follow you. It is that simple.</strong>\n\nLeadership means being able to communicate, and means being able to plan for the instance when you can\'t communicate (this may be called crisis communication planning). If an organization\'s leader (CEO, president, manager, whatever) is no longer able to communicate, the organization must have a plan in place to deal with this. A true leader will have the foresight to make planning a part of his/her leadership strategy.\n\nThoughts?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F09%2Fcommunications-is-part-of-leadership%2F&amp;linkname=Communications%20is%20part%20of%20leadership\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Communications is part of leadership','','publish','open','open','','communications-is-part-of-leadership','','','2010-08-09 10:10:44','2010-08-09 15:10:44','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=855',0,'post','',0),
(859,4,'2010-08-10 08:57:18','2010-08-10 13:57:18','http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/cropped-coffee078.jpg','cropped-coffee078.jpg','','inherit','closed','open','','cropped-coffee078-jpg-2','','','2010-08-10 08:57:18','2010-08-10 13:57:18','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/cropped-coffee078.jpg',0,'attachment','image/jpeg',0),
(860,4,'2010-08-11 13:20:55','2010-08-11 18:20:55','Editorial\n\nFrom the start of the Obama presidency, I have been surprised at the lack of good communications advice given (or maybe it is received) by the president.  Last year, the president irritated DC residents by saying they weren\'t tough enough about winter. Robert Gibbs, the current press secretary, has gotten himself in many a bad situation, most recently calling left wing critics of the president \"crazy.\"\n\nAnd then there are two more troubling, recent missteps. First, Michelle Obama chose to take a mother-daughter trip to Spain, and did so at considerable expense. The trip was roundly criticized as being in poor taste as many Americans are in dire financial straits. <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Kathleen Parker\" href=\"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/08/10/AR2010081004224.html\" target=\"_blank\">Kathleen Parker in today\'s Washington Post</a> calls the trip \"tone deaf.\"  It\'s like Michelle Obama had no reality check, no perception check before embarking on her trip. I am sure that she could have found a great place to vacation, with her entourage in tow, in the United States.  In my opinion, Obama\'s Spain trip is the result of a lack of communications counseling. Someone at the White House is not thinking in terms of public perceptions.\n\nThe other recurring and ongoing communications issue is President Obama\'s apparent obsession with blaming George Bush. Instead of referring to the current GOP power base, Obama keeps blaming Bush\'s policies for the economic slump.After nearly two years in office, this economic mess is Obama\'s, not Bush\'s. Also, as Frank Rich pointed out in the excellent New York Times opinion piece, <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Frank Rich\" href=\"http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/08/opinion/08rich.html?ref=frankrich\" target=\"_blank\">\"How to Lose an Election Without Really Trying,\" </a>many ideas that Obama is saying are Bush\'s are not.  Again, this is a lack of communications advice. People are looking for reasons to vote for the Democrats, not reasons to vote against the Republicans. Most people have lost track of George Bush and are more interested in knowing what OBAMA is going to do.\n\nWhat the White House needs is better communications advice. And stat. As midterm elections approach, people are going to be deciding to vote for Republicans or Democrats, and if the Republicans gain momentum, they may kick out Obama out of office in 2012.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F11%2Feditorial-the-obamas-need-better-communications-advice%2F&amp;linkname=Editorial%3A%20The%20Obamas%20need%20better%20communications%20advice\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Editorial: The Obamas need better communications advice','','publish','open','open','','editorial-the-obamas-need-better-communications-advice','','','2010-08-11 13:20:55','2010-08-11 18:20:55','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=860',0,'post','',0),
(864,4,'2010-08-16 07:45:37','2010-08-16 12:45:37','Lots of communications people --journalists, PR folks, ad people--are on Twitter.  I am too, and I follow many communications types.  You can get a lot of good information, and interesting facts from your Twitter stream. But you can also learn a lot about the people you follow.\n\n<strong>What you tweet about:</strong> Obviously, what you tweet about shows what you are interested in, and what you are more knowledgeable about. If you are in health care, you may tweet about the latest health research. If you are constantly tweeting about personal stuff, you are communicating that your business is not as important to you as your personal life. If you never tweet about personal stuff, you are saying that you view Twitter as only business.\n\n<strong>When you tweet: </strong>Do you tweet during the day? Chances are that you incorporate Twitter into your work life. Do you only tweet on the weekend?  Timing shows how much you understand how Twitter works. Although we have the ability to look a people\'s stream history, Twitter tends to be about immediacy. If you are tweeting in the middle of the night, you are saying you don\'t care whether people see your tweets, you just want to share.\n\n<strong>How much you re-tweet: </strong>If you re-tweet stuff, it shows you are really reading what the people you follow share, and also, that you find it useful. You also are saying you are willing to share credit. If you never re-tweet, well, maybe you haven\'t found anything worth sharing.\n\nYour Twitter stream really communicates a lot to those who follow you. Twitter is about building your network, and it is about sharing.  I would argue that Twitter is also about branding.  If you haven\'t locked your tweets, anyone can see what you are putting out there, and can form an opinion about who you are and what you do.\n\nWhat does your Twitter stream say about you?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F16%2Fwhat-does-your-twitter-stream-communicate%2F&amp;linkname=What%20does%20your%20Twitter%20stream%20communicate\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','What does your Twitter stream communicate','','publish','open','open','','what-does-your-twitter-stream-communicate','','','2010-08-16 07:45:37','2010-08-16 12:45:37','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=864',0,'post','',2),
(867,4,'2010-08-18 07:31:09','2010-08-18 12:31:09','When you visit  a website, particularly for a company you may want to do business with, do you check out the \"about\" page? I always do. I want to know who I am dealing with.\r\n\r\nWhen I write an \"about\" page for a client, I always concentrate on facts. In a sense, I am doing the journalism 101 treatment: who, what, where, when, why and how.  In my book, that is what an \"about\" page should answer for website visitors. If you go to my website, my about page has my bio (the who, why, when, where) and my business philosophy (the how).\r\n\r\nAnother thing to remember when you are writing an about page: people do business with people. People don\'t do business with concepts or grand ideas. People choose you based on your qualifications (and maybe your likability, who you know, what you know).\r\n\r\nRecently, I came across a business and checked out their about page. I wanted to know who was behind this company. And this is part of what I found:\r\n<blockquote>XXX provides business integration solutions, our focus is on helping  organizations capitalize on information management by designing programs  that sustain business goals and objectives. With  expertise in Business Process Management, Enterprise Architecture and  Knowledge Management; XXX are passionate about helping  organizations increase customer satisfaction, providing solid frameworks  for continuous improvement and aligning technology catalog with core  business objectives. XXX merges the right technology solutions with sound  information management practices to provide customers with smart  customized, future-forward, business integration solutions.</blockquote>\r\nI blocked out the company name of course, but does this description tell you anything? I have no idea what these people do or who they are, but I do know they love jargon.  What the heck is a \"smart customized, future-forward, business integration solution?\"\r\n\r\nAs they say on Twitter, this is a FAIL!\r\n\r\n<strong>The Caffeinated take-away:</strong>\r\n\r\n<strong>To have a truly useful \"about\" page, go back to basics. Who are you? What do you do? Where are you located? When did you start doing what you are doing? How do you do what you do? Why do you do it? Answer those questions and get yourself a good description. It may actually help your business.</strong>\r\n\r\n<strong>\r\n</strong>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F18%2Fwhat-are-you-all-about%2F&amp;linkname=What%20are%20you%20all%20about%3F\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','What are you all about?','','publish','open','open','','what-are-you-all-about','','','2011-08-14 07:15:08','2011-08-14 07:15:08','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=867',0,'post','',1),
(874,4,'2010-08-26 09:47:19','2010-08-26 14:47:19','Sometimes a perfectly good product is ruined because of bad communications.  But good communications will not fix a bad product. Eventually, people won\'t buy it, no matter how good your public relations or advertising or marketing is.\n\nThis past weekend I traveled to Charleston, South Carolina (which, by the way, is a great place for a vacation: lots to do, lots to see, good shopping and fantastic food). I stayed in a small hotel, which had a great location, close to many restaurants, the waterfront and sightseeing. I received an email from the hotel before my trip telling me they looked forward to my visit, and how to find the place. Nice gesture.  After my trip, I received another email from the hotel thanking me for my visit and encouraging me to submit comments and suggestions. Again, nice example of customer communications.\n\nOn the communications front, the hotel is doing well. However, on the actual product the hotel offers, there was a lot lacking. The rooms were very small, with no outside windows. You could hear the phone ringing in the reception area. The included breakfast was on par with the Holiday Inn\'s (that is, nothing special). The place was musty. Some of the front desk attendants had a slight attitude problem and a lack of professionalism.  Overall, not my favorite hotel by a long shot.\n\n<strong>Bottom line is that if your product has flaws, no amount of  communications will fix those flaws. You can have a snazzy website, great PR and excellent customer service, but if your product doesn\'t work, it won\'t sell. </strong>\n\nWhen I go back to Charleston, I will look for another hotel. Not because the hotel I stayed at did a poor job communicating with me but because I need a hotel where the rooms have windows to the outside and offers some privacy.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F26%2Feven-good-communications-dont-fix-bad-products%2F&amp;linkname=Even%20good%20communications%20don%27t%20fix%20bad%20products\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Even good communications don\'t fix bad products','','publish','open','open','','even-good-communications-dont-fix-bad-products','','','2010-08-26 09:47:19','2010-08-26 14:47:19','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=874',0,'post','',0),
(880,4,'2010-08-30 08:24:21','2010-08-30 13:24:21','Although I think many people who march to the beat of their own drummer are interesting, some folks are just plain clueless. This past weekend I went on an organized hike. Most hikers were dressed in hiking clothes of one stripe or another, except for someone my friend  dubbed \"Disco Dan.\"  \"Disco Dan\" was attired in short shorts made of corduroy and of a peach hue, to match his multicolored button down shirt. Furthermore, \"Disco Dan\" was wearing non-hiking shoes.  To say the least, \"Disco Dan\" stood out, and not in a good way.\n\nAlthough \"Disco Dan\" was harmless and mildly amusing, it made me think about how people act in a societal context. Most people are adept enough to fit in. Some people, like Dan, either don\'t get it or don\'t care to get it, and still others are avant-garde, doing today what most of us won\'t do for months or years.\n\nHow is this a marketing issue? First, responding to social cues is  important in personal marketing. If you are trying to get people to buy you, the product, you can\'t be out of touch with what is socially acceptable. For instance, if you are interviewing at a law firm and you show up in jeans and a t-shirt, you are saying with your clothing choice that you don\'t understand the law firm ethos, or that you are going to do what you are going to do, no matter what.\n\nSecondly,  observing and listening to  understand what is socially acceptable and what is not, is essential  when marketing. I would say that if you have trouble with social cues  you are not going to be able to create great ad copy or be in public  relations or in event planning. Say you are tasked with writing copy directed at senior citizens. You use the terms that GenY appreciates but that seniors don\'t understand. You are being tone-deaf to the needs of your audience. Or a more common occurrence, you go for the intentionally hip or what you think is really funny, but that your audience just doesn\'t get.\n\nUnfortunately, as more people lose the ability to interact directly with other people due to the over reliance on electronic gadgets like smart phones and gps, the less they are able to pick up on social cues. It is common to see people with headphones on walking around in their own personal bubble, and when they are looking for something, instead of asking a live person nearby they go to Twitter or Facebook and ask there.\n\nThe bottom line is that we live together in a society, where some things are more acceptable than others. When you want to be like Disco Dan and wear what you want because you want to, you are only communicating to the world that you don\'t care or that you don\'t get it.  Either way, it creates a degree of alienation.\n\nWhat are your thoughts? Have you noticed an increase in people who don\'t react to social cues?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F30%2Fsocial-cues%2F&amp;linkname=Social%20cues\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Social cues','','publish','open','open','','social-cues','','','2010-08-30 08:24:21','2010-08-30 13:24:21','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=880',0,'post','',0),
(884,4,'2010-09-03 09:11:53','2010-09-03 14:11:53','Here we go into the last \"official\" summer weekend of the year. It is September and soon enough, the bustle of Fall, back-to-school, holidays will be upon us.\n\nOn a long weekend, the best thing you can do is chill out, relax, take it easy. Too many people today are busy working all the time, or at least being connected all the time. Believe me, as of next week, everything will accelerate and you will wish for some breathing room.\n\nWe celebrate Labor Day by taking the day off--seems ironic. And we celebrate Labor Day by having sales. Shopping is how we celebrate in the United States.\n\nAs you think about the back to work and busy season that is Fall and the end of  the year, how will you make the most of the remaining third of 2010? What steps will you take to get more business? Will you revamp your marketing strategy? Redesign your website? Blog more? Get on social media? Learn something new? Attend more networking events? I will be doing all of the above!\n\nWith that said, I wish you a great, relaxing and re-charging Labor Day Weekend. When we meet here again next, we can get back to the business of marketing!\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F09%2F03%2Flabor-day-thoughts%2F&amp;linkname=Labor%20Day%20thoughts\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Labor Day thoughts','','publish','open','open','','labor-day-thoughts','','','2010-09-03 09:11:53','2010-09-03 14:11:53','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=884',0,'post','',0),
(889,4,'2010-09-08 09:24:31','2010-09-08 14:24:31','Perhaps no other sales strategy is better than good customer service. Think about it, when you get good service, you develop a good impression, right?\n\nI just had the pleasure of flying on Taca Airlines, a Central American airline. It was great. The flight crew were pleasant, helpful. They served a snack, free of charge. I got to my destination on time, on a clean, comfortable, new airplane. I made my reservations with an agent who was patient and who did not charge me for ticketing. Given my druthers, I would fly Taca again in a heartbeat.\n\nI have never seen an ad for Taca, but had heard word-of-mouth how good their service is. It\'s true. I am sold and all because of great customer service.\n\nYour thoughts?','Is customer service your best marcom strategy?','','publish','open','open','','is-customer-service-your-best-marcom-strategy','','','2010-09-08 09:24:31','2010-09-08 14:24:31','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=889',0,'post','',0),
(894,4,'2010-09-15 10:22:03','2010-09-15 15:22:03','All the advertising in the world is not going to make a frog into a prince. People respond to things personally--especially to things (like politics) that affect them directly.\n\nIn Washington DC, incumbent mayor Adrian Fenty lost the democratic primary to his opponent council member Vince Grey. Why? Partially because people preferred Grey, but in larger part, because people did not like Fenty\'s arrogance and leadership style. You can read an article in the Washington Post that further delves into this <a title=\"Washington Post\" href=\"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/09/15/AR2010091500834.html?hpid=topnews\" target=\"_blank\">here</a>.\n\nWould you vote for someone you don\'t like? Probably not, even if he or she had the nicer ads, the flashier website.  My advice to political strategists is people respond to people they like more than to ads they like.','Personality and style communicate','','publish','open','open','','personality-and-style-communicate','','','2010-09-15 10:22:03','2010-09-15 15:22:03','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=894',0,'post','',0),
(897,4,'2010-09-17 13:52:17','2010-09-17 18:52:17','There\'s a lot of hand wringing about whether the \"C-suite\" (fancy jargon term for the higher ups in a corporation) is on social media.  Does it matter? Does the CEO have to be on social media for it to be worthwhile? The answer is no.  For social media to matter it has to be the conduit to your audience or your supporters.\n\nSay for instance you are the CEO of a kid\'s cereal manufacturer. You advertise your highly sweetened concoction on children\'s shows on Saturday morning. Do you also have to watch those shows, or even those TV channels? No! Of course not. Presumably, your marketing department did some research and found that a certain percentage of your target audience watches shows and therefore if you advertise your cereal there, those kids will be begging their parental units to buy it for them.\n\nSocial media is not for everyone. But that does not mean it is not effective in reaching some people. It is more effective for certain applications and among certain demographics. This is why social media is part of the arsenal in your marketing mix.\n\nLet me emphasize again: social media is part of the marketing mix. There is more to marketing communications than social media, and if your chief executive is not tweeting or blogging or Facebooking, that is OK.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F09%2F17%2Fis-social-media-all-that%2F&amp;linkname=Is%20social%20media%20all%20that%3F\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Is social media all that?','','publish','open','open','','is-social-media-all-that','','','2010-09-17 13:52:17','2010-09-17 18:52:17','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=897',0,'post','',1),
(900,4,'2010-09-20 11:11:57','2010-09-20 16:11:57','Last week I wrote that<a title=\"DB\" href=\"http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/2010/09/17/is-social-media-all-that/\" target=\"_blank\"> social media is not all that</a>.  Even if I do believe in the importance of social media, I don\'t think everyone HAS to be on it.  And now, <a title=\"Pew \" href=\"http://pewresearch.org/databank/dailynumber/?NumberID=1072\" target=\"_blank\">Pew Research has found that 1 out of 5 Americans do NOT use the Internet</a>. This means if you are still aiming for high coverage you cannot rely on Internet ads/social media marketing alone. Traditional media (I know, it sounds old-fashioned) is still viable when attempting to reach those Americans who won\'t or can\'t access the Web.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F09%2F20%2Fdont-go-knocking-traditional-media%2F&amp;linkname=Don%27t%20go%20knocking%20traditional%20media\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Don\'t go knocking traditional media','','publish','open','open','','dont-go-knocking-traditional-media','','','2010-09-20 11:11:57','2010-09-20 16:11:57','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=900',0,'post','',0),
(904,4,'2010-09-24 07:53:01','2010-09-24 12:53:01','In the age of self-publishing and social media, it\'s easy to put out information about your brand or yourself out there. It\'s easy to gain \"followers.\"  The lack of filters makes it easy to connect directly with people. But that doesn\'t mean that what you are saying is true. Keep that in mind. Just because you put in on your blog and somebody shared it on Twitter DOES NOT MAKE IT FACTUAL OR TRUE OR EVEN RIGHT.  It just means that someone liked what you have to say.\n\nIn fact, just yesterday the disheveled leader of Iran, Mahmoud Ahmanidejad, claimed to the United Nations General Assembly that the U.S. was behind the 9-11 attacks and that most of the world believes that. To a rational person, this is hogwash, and yet there are nutcases out there who agree with this maniac.  <strong>Let me emphasize again: having followers does not make you right or true.</strong>\n\nMany people and companies are falling prey to the lure of large numbers.  They believe that because they have large numbers of followers, they are \"all that.\" They may be, but they should question it. Just today, I read a blog post by a book author, talking about herself and her concentration. It was purported to be about happiness, but it really was all about her. Another popular blog shared this morning what the blog author does as a morning routine, as if this is what we all need to do. What is happening is that because it was easy to get ideas out there, and to get positive publicity for such ideas, these people believe that everyone cares and everyone agrees with them. But that is just not accurate.\n\nI am not saying that you should not self-publicize or promote yourself or your brand. <strong>I am just saying you should not fall prey to the numbers game. Just because you have supporters does not mean everyone supports you</strong> (go over to the Washington Post and read what happened to Mayor Adrian Fenty if you want a real-life example of buying your own PR at the expense of a reality check).\n\nIf I can paraphrase a famous line: publicity corrupts, absolute publicity corrupts absolutely.\n\n(And for some comic relief, <a title=\"Elliott\" href=\"http://www.elliott.org/first-person/deltas-ausband-customer-service-is-the-core-of-what-we-do/\" target=\"_blank\">read Christopher Elliott\'s interview with Delta\'s head of customer service,</a> who thinks Delta has the best customer service. Clearly, she hasn\'t flown Delta.)\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F09%2F24%2Fdont-buy-your-own-pr%2F&amp;linkname=Don%27t%20buy%20your%20own%20PR\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Don\'t buy your own PR','','publish','open','open','','dont-buy-your-own-pr','','','2010-09-24 07:53:01','2010-09-24 12:53:01','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=904',0,'post','',0),
(907,4,'2010-09-28 13:44:32','2010-09-28 18:44:32','<strong>It is what you do. </strong>\n<ul>\n	<li>Do you live up to your commitments?</li>\n	<li>Do you deliver the goods?</li>\n	<li>Are you reliable? Responsive? Responsible?</li>\n	<li>Do you reply to people or just to tweets?</li>\n</ul>\nThere are a lot of folks out there in the social media stratosphere developing massive followings, writing blogs, sending enewsletters, even writing e-books, but <strong>all they are doing is saying what they do. They don\'t actually do what they say they do. They seem to think talking makes up for acting. </strong>\n\nFor instance, if you are in public relations, you need to create a strategy for your client. Tweeting all day is not a strategy--it is a tactic, and if it is not part of a larger, thought-out plan, it is good for nothing.\n\nAlthough social networks are valuable, the people you know in real life may be more valuable because get this, you actually know them and they know you.  If you are blowing off your in-the-flesh connections so that you can develop lots of virtual friends, you will be left with lots of virtual reality and little real reality.\n\nUse social media, but use it to do stuff, not to say you do stuff.\n\n<strong>The above is a commentary by the author of this blog. It represents her views in every possible way.</strong>\n\n<strong>\n</strong>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F09%2F28%2Fits-not-what-you-say-you-do%2F&amp;linkname=It%27s%20not%20what%20you%20say%20you%20do\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','It\'s not what you say you do','','publish','open','open','','its-not-what-you-say-you-do','','','2010-09-28 13:44:32','2010-09-28 18:44:32','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=907',0,'post','',0),
(911,4,'2010-10-05 15:01:32','2010-10-05 20:01:32','Your representative could affect you reputation. And yet, how many times have you seen big firms and/or top tier colleges represented at a job fair or college fair by a young, inexperienced person? When you go to trade shows, who is sitting at the booths? Top brass? Fat chance--most likely, exhibitors at a trade show are represented by someone from the marketing department.\n\nHave you ever gone to a networking event and met someone from a company who does not have any idea of what the company message is?\n\nThe other day, I was at a fair here in Bethesda. A very young girl handed me a flyer for a political candidate. The flyer tells me the candidate \"has the experience to work for us,\" and yet her representative was probably not even out of college. The rep did not back up the message.\n\nI got a phone call the other day from a marketing company.  I had been seeing their name pop up on my caller ID for weeks, calling at all hours and on the weekend. When I finally answered it turns out they were representing a charity. I thought it was a telemarketer and I told the young man at the other end of the call to remove from his list. He launched into the rigamarole about charities are exempt blah blah. And then I said I was irritated that they kept calling me never leaving a message. He then started to tell me how the charity is busy helping people in need (so my concerns are not quite as legitimate). I hung up. He was not a worthwhile representative for the charity.\n\nWho is sitting at your front desk/reception area? Who is out a chamber events representing your company? Do you know? What have you taught your representatives about your key messages? Can they give an elevator speech for your company?\n\nRemember, your representative is you.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F10%2F05%2Fwho-is-your-rep%2F&amp;linkname=Who%20is%20your%20rep%3F\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Who is your rep?','','publish','open','open','','who-is-your-rep','','','2010-10-05 15:01:32','2010-10-05 20:01:32','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=911',0,'post','',0),
(914,4,'2010-10-07 08:33:28','2010-10-07 13:33:28','Amy Webb, principal of<a title=\"WebbMedia\" href=\"http://www.webbmediagroup.com/home.htm\" target=\"_blank\"> Webbmedia Group</a>, spoke yesterday to a <a title=\"WWPR\" href=\"http://www.wwpr.org/\" target=\"_blank\">Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR)</a> Executive communicators brown bag lunch.  She is very knowledgeable and highly enthusiastic about technology and has made a business consulting on the various trends and applications of the new tech stuff.\r\n\r\nSome of us are a bit recalcitrant about tech stuff.  There  are so many changes that it is hard to keep up.  Most of all, tech is changing the way things are done and change is hard.\r\n\r\nHowever, we must learn about tech and how it is affecting the marketing/communications space. Just this week, long time Washington Post writer Howard Kurtz announced he is leaving the Post to go to the online-only Daily Beast. Print is giving way to online more and more.\r\n\r\nAmy Webb talked about being in the space where the consumers are--even if you aren\'t on there--places like Facebook, Foursquare, Tivo and mobile apps. She sees the world of media (traditional media, the web, mobile, e-readers, tablet pcs) as all connected by social media. Social media is part and parcel of all forms of media, not a separate entity.\r\n\r\nWebb divides the social media world into:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Geo social (Foursquare)</li>\r\n	<li>Corporate social (Yelp)</li>\r\n	<li>Social commerce (Groupon)</li>\r\n	<li>Social content (YouTube)</li>\r\n	<li>Mobile social (Loopt)</li>\r\n	<li>Pure play (Facebook)</li>\r\n	<li>Social curation (Digg, Delicious)</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nOther key take-aways from Webb:\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Keep your taglines and messaging simple for sharing</li>\r\n</ul>\r\n<ul>\r\n	<li>Curation is huge right now simply because there is too much information out there to make sense of.</li>\r\n	<li>Personalization is becoming more important. Journalists don\'t want mass press releases or multitmedia releases but rather personalized content.</li>\r\n	<li>Whatever you have done on line can be found by anyone with a bit of research knowledge</li>\r\n	<li>Before launching a brand--make sure the name you want is not being used on social media.</li>\r\n	<li>Tablet PCs are really big, witness the huge sales for the IPad, and there are many more on the horizon</li>\r\n</ul>\r\nMy conclusion is that you must know tech. As Amy Webb suggested, read Mashable and/or Techcrunch every day to keep up with technology.\r\n\r\nHow is tech affecting your marketing life?\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F10%2F07%2Fyou-must-know-tech%2F&amp;linkname=You%20must%20know%20tech\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','You must know tech','','publish','open','open','','you-must-know-tech','','','2011-08-14 07:14:09','2011-08-14 07:14:09','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=914',0,'post','',0),
(1329,4,'2010-08-18 07:31:09','2010-08-18 12:31:09','When you visit  a website, particularly for a company you may want to do business with, do you check out the \"about\" page? I always do. I want to know who I am dealing with.\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=about&amp;iid=225726\" src=\"http://view4.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/225726/business/business.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=225726\" width=\"234\" height=\"156\" /]\n\nWhen I write an \"about\" page for a client, I always concentrate on facts. In a sense, I am doing the journalism 101 treatment: who, what, where, when, why and how.  In my book, that is what an \"about\" page should answer for website visitors. If you go to my website, my about page has my bio (the who, why, when, where) and my business philosophy (the how).\n\nAnother thing to remember when you are writing an about page: people do business with people. People don\'t do business with concepts or grand ideas. People choose you based on your qualifications (and maybe your likability, who you know, what you know).\n\nRecently, I came across a business and checked out their about page. I wanted to know who was behind this company. And this is part of what I found:\n<blockquote>XXX provides business integration solutions, our focus is on helping  organizations capitalize on information management by designing programs  that sustain business goals and objectives. With  expertise in Business Process Management, Enterprise Architecture and  Knowledge Management; XXX are passionate about helping  organizations increase customer satisfaction, providing solid frameworks  for continuous improvement and aligning technology catalog with core  business objectives. XXX merges the right technology solutions with sound  information management practices to provide customers with smart  customized, future-forward, business integration solutions.</blockquote>\nI blocked out the company name of course, but does this description tell you anything? I have no idea what these people do or who they are, but I do know they love jargon.  What the heck is a \"smart customized, future-forward, business integration solution?\"\n\nAs they say on Twitter, this is a FAIL!\n\n<strong>The Caffeinated take-away:</strong>\n\n<strong>To have a truly useful \"about\" page, go back to basics. Who are you? What do you do? Where are you located? When did you start doing what you are doing? How do you do what you do? Why do you do it? Answer those questions and get yourself a good description. It may actually help your business.</strong>\n\n<strong>\n</strong>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F18%2Fwhat-are-you-all-about%2F&amp;linkname=What%20are%20you%20all%20about%3F\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','What are you all about?','','inherit','open','open','','867-revision','','','2010-08-18 07:31:09','2010-08-18 12:31:09','',867,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/08/867-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(920,4,'2010-10-14 12:27:40','2010-10-14 17:27:40','Back when I was in grad school, I studied mass communications. The theory was that advertising, public relations and journalism all reached mass audiences. Back then, there was no Twitter, no one blogged or even had a website. Cable existed but lots of people still watched the broadcast channels. People still read the newspaper. Magazines were everywhere. Mass media was alive and well.\n\nToday, mass media are dying. Witness the declining numbers for the broadcast channels. An article in Fortune Magazine about Oprah said that one of the reasons she is going to her own cable channel is because her audience on regular TV is declining. We have all seen magazines disappear and newspapers shrink (and become more irrelevant).\n\nThe question is how do we communicate messages to the masses when the masses are getting more and more segmented? People are demanding personalization. No one seems to listen to the radio anymore, they listen to their own playlists on their MP3 player.  In social media, we follow those we want to follow.\n\nThere are messages that must get to the masses.  For instance, last year we had the H1N1 \"pandemic.\" Health information had to be sent out to the largest number of people.\n\nWhat got me thinking about this is that we have had an increasing number of pedestrians being struck and killed by cars here in the DC area. Clearly, more people are driving either drunk or distractedly, and are speeding on top of it. In the past week alone, we have seen more than half a dozen people KILLED not to mention others who are injured. How do we combat this? How can we get the word out if there is no mass medium that is effective?\n\nIn the age of Twitter, where  would a PSA make real impact?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F10%2F14%2Fmass-comms%2F&amp;linkname=Mass%20comms\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Mass comms','','publish','open','open','','mass-comms','','','2010-10-14 12:27:40','2010-10-14 17:27:40','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=920',0,'post','',1),
(924,4,'2010-10-15 10:58:10','2010-10-15 15:58:10','Today is Blog Action Day (and I would link to the website but it is down) and the topic is water. I found out about it from Daria Steigman\'s post <a title=\"Steigman\" href=\"http://www.steigmancommunications.com/2010/10/15/water-is-life/\" target=\"_blank\">\"Water is Life\" </a>and also from a post on Conversation Agent: <a title=\"Conversation Agent\" href=\"http://www.conversationagent.com/2010/10/ten-facts-about-water-blog-action-day-2010.html\" target=\"_blank\">\"Ten Facts About Water.\"</a>\n\nThe idea is to get bloggers to post on a common topic to get the word out. Just yesterday, I wrote about the death of mass communications and in a sense, Blog Action Day is a way to use social media in our extremely segmented world to inform people and get them to act around a common cause.\n\nWhen I visited Australia in 2008, there was a lot of talk on the media about bottled water. Tap water in Australia is drinkable and yet people were spending money (and at about $3 per 1/2 liter, a lot of money) for bottled water. The problem with bottled water of course is waste. The bottle is not always recycled.  Australia is mostly desert, and in the summer, it can get very very dry. Australians tend to be active--always running, walking, swimming, surfing.   Since it is necessary to keep hydrated,  having access to water is a necessity and bottled water can be very convenient. How do you change people\'s habits?\n\nAnother water habit that I encountered in Australia was a campaign to reduce showering time. In my hotel in Melbourne was a card and a timer inviting me to keep my shower to four minutes. I always wondered why this wasn\'t done in the US too. Australia was certainly in a drought state. The United States is not there yet, but could be. Again, how do you change people\'s habits? How do you get people to think about the length of their showers and how this impacts the environment?\n\nDo you think Blog Action Day can help make a difference? What would a mass information campaign look like in our social media age?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F10%2F15%2Fblog-action-day%2F&amp;linkname=Blog%20Action%20Day\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Blog Action Day','','publish','open','open','','blog-action-day','','','2010-10-15 10:58:10','2010-10-15 15:58:10','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=924',0,'post','',1),
(929,4,'2010-10-18 10:34:16','2010-10-18 15:34:16','Do you want to easily market yourself? I have a great tip: make your content (blog, website, social media stuff) shareable. I don\'t mean that you should simply create stuff people want to share--which is a given--but make it easy to share. By this I mean have a social media sharing button/widget on your blog or website (such as the one at the end of this post). If you don\'t know how to get one, here are a few to try:\n<ul>\n	<li><a title=\"Add to Any\" href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Add to any</a> (which is what I have here)</li>\n	<li><a title=\"Twitter\" href=\"http://twitter.com/goodies/tweetbutton\" target=\"_blank\">\"Tweet this\" button </a>from Twitter</li>\n	<li><a title=\"Add this\" href=\"http://www.addthis.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Add this</a></li>\n</ul>\nYou can find other individual service sharing buttons at this Wiki:\n<ul>\n	<li><a title=\"Sharing Buttons\" href=\"http://www.sharingbuttons.org/Buttons\" target=\"_blank\">http://www.sharingbuttons.org/Buttons</a></li>\n</ul>\nWordpress.com recently started its own sharing widget.\n\nFind one that works with your blog/website and deploy it. B<strong>y allowing your content to be easily shared, you will increase your reach.</strong> The word to note is EASILY.  There are ways I can share your content without your help...but if you make it easy for me, then I will most likely do it. And that is why you create great content, right?\n\n<em>Important clarification for Wordpress users : If you have a Wordpress.org blog (self-hosted), you may be able to find these buttons as plug-ins. Wordpress.com users CANNOT use plug-ins, but can add these manually to each post or find the Wordpress.com sharing button.</em>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F10%2F18%2Fan-easy-marketing-tip%2F&amp;linkname=An%20easy%20marketing%20tip\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','An easy marketing tip','','publish','open','open','','an-easy-marketing-tip','','','2010-10-18 10:34:16','2010-10-18 15:34:16','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=929',0,'post','',2),
(934,4,'2010-10-21 08:03:53','2010-10-21 13:03:53','When you are trying to market your services or your product, you will naturally try to make the product or service look appealing. That\'s fine, as long as you are not overselling or over-promising. If you oversell or promise something you can\'t deliver, you will run into problems.\r\n\r\nLet me give you an example, drawn from my experience this week with the US Postal Service.\r\n\r\nMy mother sent me an express package on Monday. It was guaranteed to be delivered by noon on Tuesday. It wasn\'t. I called the 1-800 to track it and find out where it was. After some problems with the automated attendant (that is a whole other issue), I got through to a representative. She had no idea where my package was or when I would get it. At one point, she put me on hold. During this interlude, I found out that:\r\n<blockquote>For delivery you can rely on, choose the United States Postal Service.</blockquote>\r\nIs that supposed to be a joke? My \"express\" package arrived more than 24 hours after it was \"guaranteed\" to arrive. And as I learned from the customer service agent, the guarantee is really about your money. They don\'t actually guarantee the arrival of the express packages at their destination, but rather, if your package doesn\'t arrive when they say it will, they will give you your money back.\r\n\r\nI guess that when you absolutely, positively need it there by a certain time, don\'t use the USPS, use Fedex (or UPS). For those of you who don\'t remember the Fedex ad, here it is\r\n\r\n[youtube id=31yxkSIIn9A&amp;fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0]\r\n\r\nThe quickest thing you can do ruin your reputation is to promise that you will do something that you can\'t or won\'t do. And reputation is important in marketing. What do you think my impression is of the USPS?\r\n\r\nSo, when you are prepping your marketing materials (and especially your tag line), be careful about what you say.  Daily Blog Tips has a great post on <a title=\"Daily Blog Tips\" href=\"http://www.dailyblogtips.com/10-tips-to-improve-your-sales-copy-today/\" target=\"_blank\">10 Tips to Improve Your Sales Copy Today</a>. Note that their number two tip is:  <strong>Don\'t Make a Promise You Can\'t Keep.</strong>\r\n\r\n<strong>\r\n</strong>\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F10%2F21%2Fcan-you-keep-your-promise%2F&amp;linkname=Can%20you%20keep%20your%20promise%3F\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Can you keep your promise?','','publish','open','open','','can-you-keep-your-promise','','','2011-08-12 00:44:45','2011-08-12 00:44:45','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=934',0,'post','',0),
(940,4,'2010-10-25 09:36:35','2010-10-25 14:36:35','Are your efforts paying off? Is your marketing achieving results?\r\n\r\nHow do you know? Obviously, the first sign is that you are generating numbers: sales, impressions.\r\n\r\nBut how do you know what people think about you, your product, your service and your marketing efforts? This is a harder question to answer. If people don\'t attend your event, it could be for a myriad of reasons (don\'t have time, costs too much not interested). Same thing with your product or service. How do you know why people aren\'t buying?\r\n\r\nIt comes down to requesting feedback, and to listening to what your audience has to say.\r\n\r\nFirst, you should ALWAYS request feedback from attendees to your event and people who buy your product. Make it easy for people to provide comments on your website. Have an email address specifically for feedback.\r\n\r\nSecond, listen to what exactly  is being said about you in the comments  you receive. Also,  cast a wider net: check out <a title=\"Social Mention\" href=\"http://www.socialmention.com/\" target=\"_blank\">SocialMention</a> (or other social media monitoring tools) to see what is being said about you or your brand.\r\n\r\nLast week, I tweeted to a local marketing networking group that they were sending me too many email messages. In fact, it got to a point that I would just delete rather than read. The organizational response to me via Twitter  was to tell me they would be happy to remove me from the list. I told them to take my comment seriously. I was giving them FEEDBACK. They didn\'t want to listen.\r\n\r\nYou will not know if you are hitting the mark with your marketing efforts if you don\'t make an effort to gather feedback. You may get some people to buy your product or attend your event, but you may be missing a host of others.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F10%2F25%2Fare-you-hitting-the-mark%2F&amp;linkname=Are%20you%20hitting%20the%20mark%3F\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Are you hitting the mark?','','publish','open','open','','are-you-hitting-the-mark','','','2011-08-14 07:12:54','2011-08-14 07:12:54','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=940',0,'post','',0),
(1328,4,'2010-10-07 08:33:28','2010-10-07 13:33:28','Amy Webb, principal of<a title=\"WebbMedia\" href=\"http://www.webbmediagroup.com/home.htm\" target=\"_blank\"> Webbmedia Group</a>, spoke yesterday to a <a title=\"WWPR\" href=\"http://www.wwpr.org/\" target=\"_blank\">Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR)</a> Executive communicators brown bag lunch.  She is very knowledgeable and highly enthusiastic about technology and has made a business consulting on the various trends and applications of the new tech stuff.\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=technology&amp;iid=9924841\" src=\"http://view2.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9924841/frankfurt-book-fair-2010/frankfurt-book-fair-2010.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9924841\" width=\"234\" height=\"173\" /]\n\nSome of us are a bit recalcitrant about tech stuff.  There  are so many changes that it is hard to keep up.  Most of all, tech is changing the way things are done and change is hard.\n\nHowever, we must learn about tech and how it is affecting the marketing/communications space. Just this week, long time Washington Post writer Howard Kurtz announced he is leaving the Post to go to the online-only Daily Beast. Print is giving way to online more and more.\n\nAmy Webb talked about being in the space where the consumers are--even if you aren\'t on there--places like Facebook, Foursquare, Tivo and mobile apps. She sees the world of media (traditional media, the web, mobile, e-readers, tablet pcs) as all connected by social media. Social media is part and parcel of all forms of media, not a separate entity.\n\nWebb divides the social media world into:\n<ul>\n	<li>Geo social (Foursquare)</li>\n	<li>Corporate social (Yelp)</li>\n	<li>Social commerce (Groupon)</li>\n	<li>Social content (YouTube)</li>\n	<li>Mobile social (Loopt)</li>\n	<li>Pure play (Facebook)</li>\n	<li>Social curation (Digg, Delicious)</li>\n</ul>\nOther key take-aways from Webb:\n<ul>\n	<li>Keep your taglines and messaging simple for sharing</li>\n</ul>\n<ul>\n	<li>Curation is huge right now simply because there is too much information out there to make sense of.</li>\n	<li>Personalization is becoming more important. Journalists don\'t want mass press releases or multitmedia releases but rather personalized content.</li>\n	<li>Whatever you have done on line can be found by anyone with a bit of research knowledge</li>\n	<li>Before launching a brand--make sure the name you want is not being used on social media.</li>\n	<li>Tablet PCs are really big, witness the huge sales for the IPad, and there are many more on the horizon</li>\n</ul>\nMy conclusion is that you must know tech. As Amy Webb suggested, read Mashable and/or Techcrunch every day to keep up with technology.\n\nHow is tech affecting your marketing life?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F10%2F07%2Fyou-must-know-tech%2F&amp;linkname=You%20must%20know%20tech\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','You must know tech','','inherit','open','open','','914-revision','','','2010-10-07 08:33:28','2010-10-07 13:33:28','',914,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/10/914-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(945,4,'2010-11-01 14:56:05','2010-11-01 19:56:05','If you blog, for yourself or for your organization, do you know what your blog looks like to the outside world? How are your readers seeing you? Are they subscribing in a reader, via email or just visiting your blog?  Are those visitors sharing your blog? If so, how are they doing it?\n\n<a title=\"Easy Tip\" href=\"http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/2010/10/18/an-easy-marketing-tip/\" target=\"_blank\">(Caffeinated tip of  a few days ago was to make sure your blog is shareable</a>.)\n\nMany bloggers out there, including those that blog for large organizations, are NOT checking to see how their blog looks. I can tell you because there are several I follow in my Google Reader. Here are several fixable mistakes these bloggers are making:\n<ul>\n	<li>Duplicating entries</li>\n	<li>Having no title appear for the blog or having a generic title like \"Most Recent Entries.\"</li>\n	<li>No sharing button</li>\n	<li>Sharing button that does not fill in information when you share so the post only has a link and no title.</li>\n	<li>Only sharing the first line of the post</li>\n	<li>Not allowing sharing from the  reader</li>\n	<li>Not having a visible RSS feed or email subscription tab on your blog</li>\n</ul>\nHappily, all these are fixable.  Start by following your own blog via RSS feed in a reader and via email subscription. Use your sharing button to see how (and if) it works. You may be overlooking something that will turn off one of your readers.  You should probably view the blog on someone else\'s computer too.\n\nYou may be overlooking something. Protect your brand and your blog!','You may be overlooking something','','publish','open','open','','you-may-be-overlooking-something','','','2010-11-01 14:56:05','2010-11-01 19:56:05','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=945',0,'post','',0),
(950,4,'2010-11-03 09:24:56','2010-11-03 14:24:56','A Caffeinated editorial\n\nThe Democrats lost because they lost the message.  President Obama, his administration and certainly the House leadership did a poor job of communicating what they accomplished and of refuting the sometimes crack-pot ideas the Republicans, and especially the Tea Party candidates were offering.\n\nCommunications matter in shaping perception. The Tea Party was especially successful in convincing the public that Obama was \"socializing\" the country. The perception of the Democrats as un-American was instilled.  Did Obama prove otherwise? No.  He didn\'t seem to grasp that how he communicated what his administration achieved was just as important as what he actually did. He didn\'t make the case that the changes he made may have helped stem the recession. He also didn\'t make the case that jobs were his number one priority. What was? Health care reform.\n\nTiming is crucial in communications and in politics.  If Obama had put health care on the back burner (or at least seemed to) he may have been able to say he prioritized jobs.\n\nThis mid-term election is a tremendous failure for Democrats. The Republicans were led by someone who constantly put his foot in his mouth, Michael Steele, and yet managed to win control of the House. Sarah Palin, arguably  the most superficial politicians of all time, is the voice of the Tea Party on a national stage. She talks in platitudes and unsupported statements, and yet the Democrats couldn\'t find a way to reduce her credibility.\n\nNancy Pelosi, who is a brilliant politician, failed to make the case. Obama failed to make the case. And the many incumbents who lost their seat, failed to make the case.\n\nIt all comes down to communications and having a message that is relate-able, repeatable, and that resonates with voters. Democrats did not have this in 2010.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F11%2F03%2Fwhy-the-democrats-lost%2F&amp;linkname=Why%20the%20Democrats%20lost\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Why the Democrats lost','','publish','open','open','','why-the-democrats-lost','','','2010-11-03 09:24:56','2010-11-03 14:24:56','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=950',0,'post','',0),
(955,4,'2010-11-05 06:40:07','2010-11-05 11:40:07','In an interview to 60 Minutes (which is excerpted<a title=\"CBS\" href=\"http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2010/11/05/earlyshow/main7025168.shtml\" target=\"_blank\"> in this CBS News piece</a> and which will air on Sunday, November 7), President Obama says:\n<blockquote>﻿\n<span style=\"color:#888888;\">\"I think that\'s a fair argument. I think that, over the course of  two years we were so busy and so focused on getting a bunch of stuff  done that, we stopped paying attention to the fact that leadership isn\'t  just legislation. That it\'s a matter of persuading people. And giving  them confidence and bringing them together. And setting a tone,\" </span></blockquote>\n<span style=\"color:#000000;\">Leadership is about inspiring people to follow you. Inspiration requires that you have an ability to communicate. </span>\n\n<span style=\"color:#888888;\"><span style=\"color:#000000;\">I will be interested to see if the White House changes how it communicates.  And to see what the Democratic leadership does--will Harry Reid still be Majority Leader in the Senate?  Perhaps not such a great idea, since his failure to communicate nearly lost him his seat to an extreme candidate.</span>\n</span>','And President Obama agrees','','publish','open','open','','and-president-obama-agrees','','','2010-11-05 06:40:07','2010-11-05 11:40:07','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=955',0,'post','',0),
(958,4,'2010-11-08 08:12:59','2010-11-08 13:12:59','If you are on Twitter or Facebook, you will have seen many of your \"friends\" tell you that they are at Starbucks or at the airport. Some of them are \"mayors\" and some have \"badges.\" It\'s all about the Foursquare check-in. Many nonprofit marketing consultants, and more for-profit marketing consultants, are advising that organizations/companies should get on Foursquare (or other location-based services).  The idea is to have people in the vicinity know you are there--offer those people special deals or more information just for checking-in.\n\nBut. There is a problem: only four percent of  adults online \"check-in\" or use geo-location services,<a title=\"Pew\" href=\"http://pewresearch.org/pubs/1793/geosocial-location-based-service-foursquare-gowalla\" target=\"_blank\"> according to research from Pew. </a>\n\nTo me, the rush to embrace check-ins and geo-location has more to do with the fact that marketers have lots of friends using Foursquare, and less to do with reality. To suggest to nonprofits that they must be on location-based services is based on what exactly?  It is based on the desire to be cutting-edge, to suggest something \"ahead of the curve.\" What it is not is practical. Nonprofits have many many other communications and marketing challenges to fix, other than having people check-in.\n\nIn my opinion, the check-in is really great for retail and restaurants/bars, especially if you are promoting a special or a sale or trying to build interest. But,  just realize that there is an element of unfairness to those patrons who don\'t have smart phones, or don\'t do check-ins (apparently 96% of the population).\n\nPerhaps people are not so eager to share their locations. It does seem big-brother to me. And this is what the article <a title=\"NYT\" href=\"http://www.nytimes.com/2010/11/07/weekinreview/07brustein.html\" target=\"_blank\">Tag-Along Marketing </a>in the New York Times talks about.\n\nWill check-ins take off in the future? It\'s questionable. And you should not base marketing advice on something that is still in the works.','Go check-in somewhere else','','publish','open','open','','go-check-in-somewhere-else','','','2010-11-08 08:12:59','2010-11-08 13:12:59','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=958',0,'post','',0),
(961,4,'2010-11-09 14:19:39','2010-11-09 19:19:39','Lots of people describe themselves as addicted to Twitter or Facebook,  or to social media in general.\n\nAre you addicted?\n\nWith alcohol, there is <strong>social use </strong>(drinking in social situations), <strong>habitual use</strong> (drinking consistently, part of your usual routine) and <strong>alcoholism </strong>(where you <em>need</em> to drink, can\'t function without alcohol and which is a medical condition requiring treatment).\n\nWith social media, I think most people are not addicts, they are habitual users. Just like we have become habitual users of email, but we are not addicted to it. We use social media in our everyday life, it is part and parcel of our work life. But do we NEED social media to do what we do? No. We can use other tools to communicate (although lots of people can\'t seem to use the phone to have actual conversations) Can we live without it? Yes (if Twitter went down you would still know how to get in touch with people, right?).\n\nAre we ruining our health by using it? Only if you never leave your computer or smart phone and limit your physical activity to keying in.\n\nThe key is to realize that social media is a tool and not a substitute for interaction, strategy, etc.  You may use social media habitually, even heavily, but you probably are not addicted to it. You could shut down the computer or power off your smart phone and still talk to people. Right?\n\n[polldaddy poll=4060801] ','Addicted?','','publish','open','open','','addicted','','','2010-11-09 14:19:39','2010-11-09 19:19:39','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=961',0,'post','',0),
(968,4,'2010-11-22 09:09:15','2010-11-22 14:09:15','By now, you have probably heard about George W. Bush\'s new book/memoir Decision Points. Bush went on a media blitz to promote the book and appeared on the Today Show and Oprah, among other venues. Many have said Decision Points is about trying to  recast how the Bush II presidency is viewed. It certainly is a chance for Bush to explain why he did what he did. But the question is--will the book change the public\'s perception of Bush?\n\nI heard a pundit (I can\'t remember who or on what show) say that if you liked Bush before, you will like him now, but if you didn\'t like Bush then, you will certainly not like him more after reading the book. Perhaps only if you had no opinion or were undecided would you change your perception of Bush after reading this book.\n\nWhy? Because sometimes it isn\'t about marketing. Products or services are good or not good, useful or not useful, and no amount of marketing changes that. If you are a Bush hater, no matter how many positive books are written about him and how many accolades he receives, you are not going to change your mind.\n\nSame thing happens with housing. I know a Realtor who is trying to sell a house.  The house itself is very roomy, with a great layout and other nice features--except it is very close to a major highway. The Realtor is marketing the house in all the usual ways--open houses, brochures, well worded descriptions, etc. But unless you don\'t mind having a view of traffic, you are not going to buy the house. It is not about the marketing. It is about the product.\n\n&nbsp;','Sometimes, it isn\'t about marketing','','publish','open','open','','sometimes-it-isnt-about-marketing','','','2010-11-22 09:09:15','2010-11-22 14:09:15','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=968',0,'post','',0),
(971,4,'2010-11-23 10:09:00','2010-11-23 15:09:00','Perhaps you heard yesterday that Netflix is adding a streaming-only option and increasing its rates.  It was reported on various different blogs, websites and of course, Twitter. Here\'s a sampling (and notice the date/time):\n\n<a title=\"LA Times\" href=\"http://http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/entertainmentnewsbuzz/2010/11/netflinx-launches-streaming-only-plan-raises-prices-for-dvd-plans.html\" target=\"_blank\">L.A. Times</a>\n\n<a title=\"ABC\" href=\"http://abcnews.go.com/Technology/wireStory?id=12217283\" target=\"_blank\">ABC News</a>\n\n<a title=\"Consumerist\" href=\"http://consumerist.com/2010/11/netflix-offers-799-streaming-only-plan-raises-prices-on-existing-plans.html\" target=\"_blank\">Consumerist</a>\n\nI am a Netflix customer, and guess what, <strong>I heard about it from Netflix directly last night, through a company email that arrived at 6:38 p.m.</strong> Of course, by then I already knew that I was going to be paying more.\n\nCompanies should tell their own customers about changes to ANYTHING (pricing, service, hours, etc.) before they release the information publicly. Customers should not find out that their service provider or bank or whatever will be changing its ways from third parties. It does not make good business sense. It alienates customers.\n\nWhen communicating news, you must have a hierarchy:\n<p style=\"padding-left:30px;\">First, communicate changes to your internal organization.</p>\n<p style=\"padding-left:30px;\">Second, communicate to your users/customers.</p>\n<p style=\"padding-left:30px;\">Third, communicate to the public at large using media relations, advertising or other mass channels.</p>\n<p style=\"padding-left:30px;text-align:left;\">&nbsp;</p>\n<p style=\"padding-left:30px;\">&nbsp;</p>\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F11%2F23%2Finform-your-customers-first%2F&amp;linkname=Inform%20your%20customers%20first\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Inform your customers first','','publish','open','open','','inform-your-customers-first','','','2010-11-23 10:09:00','2010-11-23 15:09:00','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=971',0,'post','',1),
(975,4,'2010-11-25 10:51:25','2010-11-25 15:51:25','Today, on Thanksgiving Day, many people are sitting around plotting how to tackle \"black Friday.\" What stores should they visit? Whose gifts should they get? How early should they get there? And so forth.\n\nMany of these folks are swayed by the promise of getting AMAZING! deals. Low low prices! Doorbusters! But are the deals worth the hassle? Hard to say.\n\nThe truth is that we can be swayed by many things. For instance, the reports about the TSA\'s new invasive procedures. It was widely reported on TV, yet it seems that few if any people participated in Opt-Out day. At least that is what is being reported today. The Washington Post has yet another editorial supporting the TSA, and a front page article saying that very few people protested the TSA.  Does that sway you?\n\nA new movie opened yesterday starring Jake Gylenhaal and Anne Hathaway called Love &amp; Other Drugs. The Washington Post gave it one and a half stars. Roger Ebert gave it three. Which review sways you? When you are deciding whether to spend $10 plus, which reviewer will make you go to a movie or not?\n\nMy point is that we are swayed by opinions, news reporting, public relations and advertising but we are not always aware of what is making feel one way or another. These forces are powerful--they surround us and provide us information.\n\nOh and the force that seems to sway the most people is what their peers are doing. If everybody is going around using Foursquare, then we are too. And on this week of Thanksgiving there has been the often disingenous need to express gratitude publicly. On Twitter, there\'s a hashtag for that.\n\nI am not against gratitude or expressing thanks. But if I do it, it is not because I am swayed because 400 people in my Twitter stream are expressing all the blather they are thankful for.\n\nWhat sways you this Thanksgiving and holiday season? Why do you do what you do?\n\nHappy Thanksgiving to all, and thank you for reading.\n\n&nbsp;','What sways you?','','publish','open','open','','what-sways-you','','','2010-11-25 10:51:25','2010-11-25 15:51:25','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=975',0,'post','',0),
(978,4,'2010-11-30 10:08:27','2010-11-30 15:08:27','At my gym, I see several folks doing the same thing, day after day.  Some of these people even use the exact same machine at the same time, every day. Are they getting more fit? Probably not, because to get more fit you have to challenge yourself, you have to change things up.\n\nThose gym rats always doing the same thing are stuck. Stuck in a routine (perhaps best to call it a fitness rut).\n\nAre you stuck in your marketing routine?\n<ul>\n	<li>How long has it been since you updated your website?</li>\n	<li>How long have you been using the same brochure?</li>\n	<li>When did you develop your tagline?</li>\n	<li>How long have you had your logo? (Yes, logos need to be refreshed...typography changes!)</li>\n	<li>Have you experimented with social media marketing?</li>\n	<li>Have you experimented with <em>anything</em>?</li>\n</ul>\nIf you are stuck--that is, you are doing the same things over and over, not changing things up, even a little bit, it\'s OK.  <strong>It\'s OK if you want to remain where you are and not move forward.</strong>\n\nIf, on the other hand, you want to move forward, now is the perfect time to get unstuck. Historically, December is more about partying than productivity, so you will have plenty of time to review and revise. What needs to be changed? What will bring your more value?\n\nIf you need some advice to get started, here is a good article from the <a title=\"Business Insider\" href=\"http://www.businessinsider.com/10-steps-to-small-business-success-in-2011-2010-11#\" target=\"_blank\">Business Insider</a>.\n\nWhat will you do to get unstuck? Please share in the comments.','Are you stuck?','','publish','open','open','','are-you-stuck','','','2010-11-30 10:08:27','2010-11-30 15:08:27','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=978',0,'post','',0),
(982,4,'2010-12-01 10:32:42','2010-12-01 15:32:42','There are some people (agencies, businesses, etc.) that excel at marketing, and others, not so much. I want to share two examples with you--one of something that worked well and one of something that didn\'t.\n\n<strong>Alchemy Salon--Customizing the Experience (What Works Well)</strong>\n\nA couple of weeks ago I tried a new hair salon. When I arrived, I was asked to fill out a form. I then got my hair cut/styled and all looked good. A couple of days ago I got a HANDWRITTEN card in the mail, thanking me for visiting Alchemy and inviting me to use their online appointments option. Also, they sent me instructions how to access the online \"Alchemy Rewards Program.\"\n\nThe good here:\n<ul>\n	<li>Personalized response</li>\n	<li>Smart use of online options</li>\n	<li>Invitation to a loyalty rewards program</li>\n	<li>Follow up/thanking me for business</li>\n</ul>\n<strong>Everything But the Turkey Volunteer Program at the DCJCC (What Doesn\'t Work Well)</strong>\n\nThe Everything but the Turkey programs asks people to sign up and pay $10 to prepare the side dishes (yams, etc) for Thanksgiving meals to be given out by a food bank.  Hundreds of pounds of sides are prepared and shipped to the food bank for distribution. I have participated at least twice in the past few years. This year, as part of the GENERAL DCJCC events email, I was told about the program. I did not receive any personal invitation. For various reasons, I didn\'t choose to participate this year, but mostly, because I was not motivated enough to give up an evening.\n\nThe bad here:\n<ul>\n	<li>Lack of personalization (no acknowledgment that as someone who volunteered before, I may want to volunteer again)</li>\n	<li>No follow up</li>\n	<li>No burning reason to participate</li>\n</ul>\nWhen you send out any type of marketing piece you are \"touching\" your audience. You can do so successfully or you can fail to leave a good impression.  Think about what you are sending out and what you intend the recipient to do. Now, are you doing something that works or something that doesn\'t?\n\nAnd lastly, many marketers do not <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">measure success.</span> In Alchemy\'s case, if I join their online rewards program, they will have a way to measure whether I responded to their marketing. In the DCJCC\'s case, clearly, they are not correlating the marketing to the volunteer database, so they have NO way of knowing if volunteers from last year signed up again.\n\nI am interested in specific examples of marketing that works (or doesn\'t work). Please share with me in the comments.\n\n&nbsp;','Marketing that works and marketing that doesn\'t','','publish','open','open','','marketing-that-works-and-marketing-that-doesnt','','','2010-12-01 10:32:42','2010-12-01 15:32:42','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=982',0,'post','',0),
(985,4,'2010-12-03 09:33:59','2010-12-03 14:33:59','The best, most award-winning ad in the world won\'t sway an unhappy customer\'s mind.  Keep that in mind as you tinker with your marketing and you don\'t check in with your customer service.\n\nIf you live in Washington, DC or Maryland, you probably have PEPCO as your electric company.  And if you were around this past summer or during the massive blizzards of February, you probably lost your power.  You tried calling PEPCO only to get bad information or no information at all. Then you found out that PEPCO is rated very poorly among all electric utility companies in the United States. You probably weren\'t surprised.\n\nFast forward to the Fall of 2010. PEPCO is busy running a TV commercial featuring the company president assuring the viewers that PEPCO is responding to customer concerns.  But, is it true?\n\nYesterday, I had to call PEPCO. I was on hold for 21 minutes. And there was no emergency. Can you imagine what hold times will be when there are outages?\n\nThis is a case where PEPCO is investing money in its marketing without investing money in customer service. This is a major mistake. Customers don\'t care if you are running a great ad campaign, have well written brochures and a redesigned website, if they cannot get through to an agent to resolve their problems.\n\n<strong>Customers will judge a company on it service, not on its marketing. Marketing may get customers through the door, but it will not retain them or make them think positively about your company or organization (this applies to nonprofits as well). </strong>\n\nBefore you spend any money on a marketing campaign, make sure that you have budgeted for customer service.','Want to improve your marketing? Start with your customer service.','','publish','open','open','','want-to-improve-your-marketing-start-with-your-customer-service','','','2010-12-03 09:33:59','2010-12-03 14:33:59','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=985',0,'post','',1),
(988,4,'2010-12-06 08:54:26','2010-12-06 13:54:26','Last Friday, I wrote about how Pepco needs to concentrate on customer service and less on marketing. In fact, the company will have to deal with lots of damage control because the <a title=\"WaPo on Pepco\" href=\"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/12/04/AR2010120403887.html\" target=\"_blank\">Washington Post published a devastating article</a> on Sunday that finds that Pepco has TERRIBLE reliability and that it has nothing to do with trees and storms but rather with equipment failure.  In response, Pepco will have a press conference today to discuss their five-year improvement plan.\n\nAgain, Pepco would be best advised to spend money fixing the problem than spending thousands on an ad campaign to make the company appear to care about its customers. In the end, customers don\'t have a choice when it comes to power companies. I understand the latest Pepco ad campaign is about image...but again, customers will develop an image based on their own experiences. Everyone who suffers power outages frequently (Pepco customers suffer power outages 70% more frequently than counterparts in other large cities) knows Pepco is NOT reliable, and does not work hard enough to restore power quickly. Today\'s full-color ad in the Washington Post (with the tagline \"We\'re working for you) is not going to change minds.\n\nDo you think Pepco can fix its image? Is image even the problem?','UPDATE: Pepco and reliability','','publish','open','open','','update-pepco-and-reliability','','','2010-12-06 08:54:26','2010-12-06 13:54:26','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=988',0,'post','',1),
(991,4,'2010-12-09 10:47:54','2010-12-09 15:47:54','As I mentioned in my last post, the Washington Post published a pretty devastating expose of Pepco\'s failings and today, there are several letters to the editor that provide some insight into public unhappiness with the utility company. Additionally, Post columnist <a title=\"Robert McCartney\" href=\"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/12/08/AR2010120807912.html\" target=\"_blank\">Robert McCartney has a pretty strong take on Pepco</a> and its excuses.\n\nPepco is facing a public relations crisis. As McCartney points out, Pepco\'s PR strategy of saying that customer\'s expectations are too high is unsatisfactory and, frankly, ridiculous. The last time I checked, the United States is a first-world country, and Washington, D.C. is its capital. As such, it is not out of line to expect power to be 100% reliable. If, however, this was Haiti, then maybe expectations of electrical service would not be met.\n\nPepco\'s brand promise SHOULD be about reliability. Instead the brand has come to mean LACK OF RELIABILITY.  In order to restore its brand, Pepco is going to have to engage in communications that are responsive to real concerns, but further, should absolutely engage in FIXING THE PROBLEM. As I stated before, no amount of communications is going to satisfy a customer who has experienced frequent, extended power outages.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F12%2F09%2Fpepco-post-number-3%2F&amp;linkname=Pepco%20Post%20Number%203\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Pepco Post Number 3','','publish','open','open','','pepco-post-number-3','','','2010-12-09 10:47:54','2010-12-09 15:47:54','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=991',0,'post','',1),
(995,4,'2010-12-14 06:59:54','2010-12-14 11:59:54','Have you seen the new UPS commercials? It\'s about logistics.  There are several different iterations, but they all talk about how important logistics are, and of course, UPS is all about logistics.  Really? I thought UPS was about shipping. But I guess I am supposed to now think of shipping as just the visible part of the complex web that is logistics.\r\n\r\n[youtube id=mRAHa_Po0Kg&amp;fs=1&amp;hl=en_US]\r\n\r\nWhat\'s good:\r\n\r\nSong is memorable. Logistics is a new USP for UPS. It has definitely caught my attention.\r\n\r\nWhat\'s bad:\r\n\r\nLogistics? Really? Is that why I would ship with UPS over Fedex?\r\n\r\nYour thoughts?','Logistics?','','publish','open','open','','logistics','','','2011-08-14 07:11:50','2011-08-14 07:11:50','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=995',0,'post','',1);
INSERT INTO `wp_posts` VALUES
(998,4,'2010-12-17 13:49:31','2010-12-17 18:49:31','The social media news of the moment is that Yahoo! is shutting down Delicious, the social bookmarking site. I have used Delicious intermittently over the past couple of years, and I am sure there are several interesting articles stored over there. I am told that it is fairly easy to transfer them to another site, but the issue remains, what happens when we become dependent on any website?\n\nMany of us depend on Facebook to share pictures and news with friends and family. Others depend on LinkedIn to keep track of our professional network.  We use readers to keep our RSS feeds all in one place.  We are using cyberspace to keep our cyber activities organized. And yet, websites can be shut down at any moment and all our carefully curated information could be lost in an instant.\n\nHow do we become independent from the websites we depend on? First, figure out what information you must positively have access to and keep it in a hard (printed) format. I am talking about addresses, website URLs, email addresses and anything else you need to contact your clients, friends, network in general. Perhaps it is a good idea to keep a hard copy list of the blogs you read too.\n\nOn a totally unrelated topic, I have been reading a lot about John Boehner (incoming Republican Speaker of the House) and his crying. The man opens up the waterworks at the mere mention of his humble origins. <a href=\"http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2010/12/15/the-tears-of-john-boehner/?src=me&amp;ref=general\" target=\"_blank\">This fabulous piece from Timothy Egan in the New York Times Opinionator blog </a>says its mere hypocrisy as Boehner\'s policies do more harm than good to people of humble origins in this country. The marketer in me thinks there is more to the crying than meets the eye. I think it is a very calculated move on Boehner\'s part to seem sensitive. Either that, or he has no emotional control.\n\nWhat are your thoughts? Are you dependent on your social media? And is Boehner just a big cry-baby?','On becoming dependent and thoughts on crying','','publish','open','open','','on-becoming-dependent-and-thoughts-on-crying','','','2010-12-17 13:49:31','2010-12-17 18:49:31','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=998',0,'post','',2),
(1001,4,'2010-12-21 12:35:42','2010-12-21 17:35:42','Nothing is more disappointing than a tease. A tease will always let you down after getting your attention because a tease is nothing more than an <strong>unfulfilled promise</strong>. And yet, we see teases in marketing all the time.\n\nTeaser rates are those rates that sound so great that you are drawn to a financial institution, only to learn that you don\'t qualify. Marketers love these because they get  people in the door, but at what cost? If your potential customers are disappointed, will they come back?\n\nMy personal least favorite tease is the blog post or website article that isn\'t.  You see a headline that reads something like this: Learn how to fold sheets in 2 minutes flat. Then, when you go to read the post ,there\'s little more  than the headline  and a link to an e-book on sheet folding.\n\nTo me, teasing readers on your blog with misleading headlines betrays trust. I have stopped reading a great many blogs because the authors of those blogs just want me to buy something. They don\'t want to share with me.\n\nNow, I understand you can\'t give it all away for free. You may have a book to sell or a seminar to fill. But don\'t insult your readers/public\'s  intelligence. They can see that you pulled them in just to sell them something--and they won\'t come back.\n\nTeases are annoying--and their actions teach others to avoid them.\n\n&nbsp;','Are you a tease?','','publish','open','open','','are-you-a-tease','','','2010-12-21 12:35:42','2010-12-21 17:35:42','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1001',0,'post','',0),
(1004,4,'2010-12-24 09:38:17','2010-12-24 14:38:17','<strong><span style=\"color:#993300;\">Wishing all Caffeinated readers a very happy holiday, and all the best for a prosperous, peaceful, and HAPPY NEW YEAR!</span></strong>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a1c8wCDOrk8&fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0] ','Happy Holidays!','','publish','open','open','','happy-holidays','','','2010-12-24 09:38:17','2010-12-24 14:38:17','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1004',0,'post','',0),
(1008,4,'2011-01-03 16:22:52','2011-01-03 21:22:52','To create real, actionable marketing resolutions for 2011, you need to do two things.\n<ul>\n	<li>First, you will need to review 2010 and figure out what worked and what didn\'t work.</li>\n	<li>Second, you should ask yourself what are you going to do differently this year to achieve your marketing goals?</li>\n</ul>\nIf there is one thing most people could do differently is to follow up.  Few people go the extra mile. Recently, I have been looking for contractors for a couple of jobs in my house. Out of five contractors, three followed up. The two who didn\'t follow up don\'t have  snowball\'s chance in Hawaii to do business with me. If they don\'t even want to know whether I got their estimates or if I have any questions, clearly my business is just not that important to them.\n\nTo follow up  means doing your due diligence with a contact--any type of  contact. If you met someone at an event, follow up and make a second contact. If you left a voice mail or sent an email, and didn\'t hear back, call again and make sure to speak to someone in person. If you sent a proposal or met with a lead, make sure to contact the lead soon after your initial interaction.\n\nNot following up means that you don\'t care enough to make the effort. Following up shows you care, that you are interested.\n\nAgain, marketing is not all about the great looking ad or the slick brochure. It is about personal interaction with the people who you want to buy your product or service.\n\nSo how about it, will you join me in resolving to make following up a marketing resolution in 2011?','Following up: your number one marketing resolution for 2011','','publish','open','open','','following-up-your-number-one-marketing-resolution-for-2011','','','2011-01-03 16:22:52','2011-01-03 21:22:52','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1008',0,'post','',2),
(1012,4,'2011-01-04 10:15:03','2011-01-04 15:15:03','Have you been to the movies lately? The ticket prices keep creeping up and this past Sunday I paid $10.75 to see True Grit (a great movie, by the way, and worth watching). Just a few months ago, tickets were $10, and before that $9.50 and back in the last century, one could catch a flick for about $5.\n\n<a href=\"http://consumerist.com/2011/01/movie-ticket-sales-last-year-lowest-since-1996.html\" target=\"_blank\">Consumerist reports</a> that movie ticket sales were at their lowest point since 1996 (back in the last century) in 2010. At the same time, movie prices are at their highest point in history. Coincidence? I think not.  The article also says more people are staying home to watch streaming video or waiting the shorter time between a movie\'s theatrical release and its DVD release.  But, I think, the real cause is the high cost of the movies versus the cost of staying home/watching online or on DVD.\n\nWhat this illustrates is that no matter the quality of your product (and there are some excellent movies out there) or the frequency of your advertising or the success of your public relations efforts there are reasons that people will not buy your product (or service). Consumers will determine whether your product offers value and whether they are willing to pay for that value.\n\nWhen movies cost $10.75 and you have a family of four, or you are taking your significant other out for a date, or you are just killing time, you may think twice about it. After all $10.75 could buy you a meal or even a book. Pricing matters and higher costs will translate into lost customers. There is a balance point where you are charging more to fewer people and still making money--and that probably is the holy grail of pricing.\n\nHow does movie price affect your movie watching? Are you going to the movies in spite of the higher costs?\n\n&nbsp;','When movies cost $10.75','','publish','open','open','','when-movies-cost-10-75','','','2011-01-04 10:15:03','2011-01-04 15:15:03','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1012',0,'post','',0),
(1019,4,'2011-01-06 09:13:41','2011-01-06 14:13:41','To quote Aretha Franklin: \"R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me.\" (I do wish I could sing this to you but...)\n\nWe do business with people and brands we respect.  This is why we see the rise in rating websites like Yelp and Angie\'s List. We are looking not only for value and good quality, but to respect who we are doing business with.  On Angie\'s List, one of the parameters used to rate service providers is professionalism. Professionalism is about whether a person exhibits good judgment, whether he or she treats his or her customers with respect.\n\nIt is said that respect is earned. That is true.  To earn respect, you have to act in ways that garner trust. For instance, if you read a newspaper and find interesting and informative articles there, you continue reading it. You respect and trust the information it provides. But once you start seeing factual mistakes, typos and lapses in editorial judgment, you start losing respect and trust for the publication (or its editors). Same goes for blogs, company newsletters, anything.\n\nAs a marketer, one of your tasks should be to earn your customers\' respect and make sure they trust your product or service.  You do that by providing honest information. If you are marketing an office supply store and you say in your advertising that you carry everything for the office, but when a customer is looking for a desk or a file cabinet, and can\'t find that at your store, you are not being honest with your customers. Your customers will lose respect for you. If you say you match pricing from any other store (and you make that really large print) and then list exceptions (in very small print), you are not being honest with your customers. And yes, that will cost you respect.\n\nIt does come down to R-E-S-P-E-C-T.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','R-E-S-P-E-C-T','','publish','open','open','','r-e-s-p-e-c-t','','','2011-01-06 09:13:41','2011-01-06 14:13:41','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1019',0,'post','',0),
(1023,4,'2011-01-12 15:33:32','2011-01-12 20:33:32','Those of us who work in communications appreciate the power of choosing words well. We sweat it out over how to phrase a headline or a tagline because we know words matter. Different words carry different meanings, connotations, appeal and can sway your audience one way or another.\n\nIn the aftermath of the Arizona shooting of Rep. Gabrielle Giffords and the murder of six people by a deranged Jared Lee Loughner there has been A LOT of discussion over whether political discourse contributed to this heinous act. In truth, the only person who can answer if there is a direct correlation is Loughner, but I doubt we will be getting a sane answer from him. And many people on both sides of the political spectrum are pointing fingers at each other, at the heated rhetoric, etc.  In my opinion, words do matter. They may not have been the cause in this particular instance, but when you are continually demonizing the other by labeling (job-killing, un-American, etc.) you create chasm and you create distrust. You create or stoke hatred.  You reinforce the idea that those you attack are different than you, that they cannot be trusted, that they are out to get you.\n\nSo, although Sarah Palin\'s rhetoric and demagoguery are not what made Loughner go into a store to buy a gun and then shoot innocent people, and she is right to claim she is being wrong accused, that does not make it right for her to accuse the media of a \"blood libel.\" First, because Palin (and her communications crew) clearly do not understand the meaning of phrase and second, as my friend Daria Steigman pointed out, using the word \"blood\" in the aftermath of a bloody tragedy is just plain poor choice of words.\n\nHere are a few articles to read about Palin\'s word choice:\n\n<a href=\"http://www.frumforum.com/what-palin-needed-to-say-after-giffords-shooting\" target=\"_blank\">David Frum on what she should have said.</a>\n\n<a href=\"http://thecaucus.blogs.nytimes.com/2011/01/12/palin-calls-criticism-blood-libel/?hp\" target=\"_blank\">New York Times\' The Caucus</a>\n\nPalin seems to be a master manipulator of words, and making herself the victim of a conspiracy against her (which is what I believe she meant to say with blood libel) is no error. She should be taken to task. I will be waiting to see what she says next now that the criticism is mounting.\n\nThe bottom line is that what we say and how we say it does matter and it does influence perception. Advertising and public relations people know this better than most.','It\'s never \"just words\"','','publish','open','open','','its-never-just-words','','','2011-01-12 15:33:32','2011-01-12 20:33:32','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1023',0,'post','',0),
(1026,4,'2011-01-14 09:33:18','2011-01-14 14:33:18','If you do just one thing, I can almost guarantee you will improve your social media success:\n<p style=\"text-align:center;\"><strong>Post a good (perhaps even professional) picture of yourself on your social media profiles.</strong></p>\nFirst a caveat: I said a GOOD picture of yourself. Not some quirky, smirky mugshot<em> a la</em> Jared Lee Loughner (that is guaranteed to drive people away).  I know that good is subjective, but aim for some of these adjectives: professional, pleasant, smiling, poised, polished, approachable.\n\nThe reason is simple: people do business (and connect) with people.\n\nA few days ago, an acquaintance of mine who is notoriously shy and quiet, posted her company logo as her LinkedIn profile picture. What a bad move (and I told her so). After all, are people seeking to connect with her company (where she is an employee and not an owner) or with her?\n\nFor some people, putting up a picture seems like an invasion of privacy. For some, there is fear of being judged by looks or the worry that they don\'t look good enough. I have heard of women who want to lose weight before posting a picture.  Unfortunately, these excuses don\'t fly. Social media is social, and social means people. People are not icons or images or logos. They are themselves, and generally a photo captures this.\n\nAccording <a href=\"http://smallbiztrends.com/2011/01/business-opportunities-find-you-linkedin.html\" target=\"_blank\">to this blog post by Todd Taskey on Small Business Trends,</a> a PROFESSIONAL photo will increase your chances of having business opportunities find you on LinkedIn. More reason to go out and get a professional portrait done. It truly is a worthwhile investment.\n\n&nbsp;','One move to guarantee social media success','','publish','open','open','','one-move-to-guarantee-social-media-success','','','2011-01-14 09:33:18','2011-01-14 14:33:18','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1026',0,'post','',0),
(1029,4,'2011-01-18 13:50:39','2011-01-18 18:50:39','How do you communicate with your present or potential customers or clients? Whether you do it successfully can mean a difference to your bottom line.\n\n<strong>Provide the information requested.</strong> Yes it sounds self evident, but so many times businesses dance around a question without an answer. For instance,  I recently requested costs to create a pdf form from a virtual assistant. There was a whole lot of emails back and forth: just what type of form, how long, with logo or without, etc. And never a quote. I can\'t do business with someone who can\'t provide an estimate for me.\n\n<strong>Be realistic. </strong>Often, people think that if they say something is going to take a couple of days when it really takes a week the customer will sign up. But if the job actually takes longer you will risk angering your customer.  For instance, if  you are a service provider and you can\'t fit someone for two weeks, say so.  Don\'t say that you can possibly squeeze a customer in just because that is his/her timetable. If you can\'t accommodate something, you will end up with an unhappy customer\n\n<strong>Don\'t sugarcoat bad news.</strong> If you need to cancel or the price has gone up, say it quickly and directly.\n\n<strong>Apologize if warranted, but say what you will do to fix it</strong>. Apologies are all fine and good, but not sufficient. Most people don\'t care if you are sorry that you screwed up, they want to know how you are going to make it better.\n\n<strong>Don\'t make excuses.</strong> The dog ate my homework didn\'t fly in grade school and will certainly not fly in the face of a customer relationship and yet how many times do you hear excuses from service providers? I am having my floors done and the service provider underestimated the time it would take his crew, but he keeps telling me it is because they weren\'t able to work on the weekend. That is an excuse and it doesn\'t fly.\n\n<strong>Be timely.</strong> If you say you are going to call a customer, call! If there is going to be a problem, call your customer sooner rather than later. Don\'t let your customer call you with something you said you would get.\n\n<strong>Be pleasant.</strong> Again, it seems self-evident. Just today I called my auto insurance company. I had a change to make, and the woman who helped me was really pleasant. It made the transaction easy. It left a good impression.\n\nAnything you would add? What works best for you?\n\n&nbsp;','Tips to improve your customer communication','','publish','open','open','','tips-to-improve-your-customer-communication','','','2011-01-18 13:50:39','2011-01-18 18:50:39','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1029',0,'post','',1),
(1032,4,'2011-01-21 16:10:32','2011-01-21 21:10:32','<a href=\"http://twitter.com/#!/shashib\" target=\"_blank\">Shashi Bellamkonda</a> from Network Solutions gave the keynote yesterday at <a href=\"http://wwpr.org/\" target=\"_blank\">Washington Women in PR\'</a>s annual luncheon. Here is a link to<a href=\"http://www.networksolutions.com/blog/2011/wwpr-annual-luncheon-keynote-theme-its-all-about-human-relationships/\" target=\"_blank\"> his presentation</a>, which is well worth a read if you work in PR and/or social media.  He spoke about the importance of establishing connections, in person when possible. He\'s absolutely right. Too many people substitute an email or my least favorite, a text, for a phone conversation or an in-person meeting.  I have said it before on this blog but it bears repeating: people do business with people.\n\nRecently, I met David Heyman in person. Up to that time, I knew him on Twitter only as <a href=\"http://twitter.com/#!/dcborn61\" target=\"_blank\">@dcborn61</a>.  We have had breakfast together and chatted. We\'ve also done business. That is the power of connection.\n\nI first met Shashi as @shashib on Twitter too.  I met him in person at a casual Tweet up and have had the fortune of seeing him at many other events since.\n\nGet to know someone better. Go for coffee or a beer. Try to connect in person--you will get to know each other better.\n\nHow do you connect?','Connecting in person','','publish','open','open','','connecting-in-person','','','2011-01-21 16:10:32','2011-01-21 21:10:32','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1032',0,'post','',2),
(1036,4,'2011-01-23 08:39:41','2011-01-23 13:39:41','Several years ago, I was asked to join the board of a local education nonprofit. This particular organization was tiny, and operating in the red. The executive director was a very young and inexperienced person, who was getting paid a salary and benefits that the organization just could not afford. Clearly, funds were the issue, as they are in most nonprofit organizations.\n\nThere is a tension between marketing communications and nonprofit organizations.  As a marketer, you want your communications to look professional and put-together. I have always advocated for professional design. However, professional design does not come cheap, and it certainly is not free.  But good design pulls in eyeballs and may actually help drive traffic to your website/brochure/etc.  So what is a nonprofit to do? In my opinion, a nonprofit needs to commit resources to its communications needs--carefully. For instance, a cheap website will not attract donors. An overly glitzy website could potentially turn off donors. Somewhere in between---a website that has the necessary elements, looks clean and modern, has the ability to receive donations--is probably where nonprofits need to go.\n\nBack to the nonprofit organization I was involved with. The board was committed to having a printed brochure, which was mailed to the mailing list of members and former students. Because the executive director was lazy (there is no other word), she paid first-class postage instead of the more labor-intensive bulk nonprofit mailing rate. The brochure was printed in two-colors on heavy bond paper, adding both mailing costs and printing costs. The executive director laid out the newsletter in Publisher, and it was very difficult to edit and to update. Additionally, the organization had very little idea of who attended the classes offered or where they came from. In other words, they had no demographic information.\n\nI recommended moving the brochure to an electronic format and mailing out only to those who requested printed copies. I recommended using the nonprofit rate. I recommended getting a logo designed by graphic designer. I recommended getting all content in Word, edit and correct it, and then lay it out. I recommended conducting a survey to get a sense of who is taking the classes. Guess what? They did not show any interest in any of these recommendations. It was so frustrating that I quit the board. A few months later the executive director left, and they hired someone more mature part-time. Last I know, they don\'t have any executive director.\n\nThis organization is now sending out an even less graphically appealing printed brochure (I just got one the other day and it ended up in the trash). It is still being printed on heavy bond paper, without color though. And they are using their nonprofit bulk rate instead of first-class stamps. I wonder if this is working for them.\n\nFirst of all, who are they trying to attract? An older, less sophisticated audience might not mind a brochure that looks like a secretary in the 1990s put it together.  Why am I still getting their mailing? I haven\'t attended a class there for years, which indicates to me they haven\'t cleaned up their database.\n\nWhen you have limited funds, you should use them wisely. In this case, the organization is spending too much money on printed materials that are not visually appealing.  I would bet that they are not achieving good return on investment.\n\nDo you have examples of other nonprofits that are not doing things \"right?\" Please share stories and examples.','Nonprofit communications: how not to do it','','publish','open','open','','nonprofit-communications-how-not-to-do-it','','','2011-01-23 08:39:41','2011-01-23 13:39:41','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1036',0,'post','',1),
(1040,4,'2011-01-27 12:39:37','2011-01-27 17:39:37','This past Monday, I attended the <a href=\"http://whatsnextdc.com/\" target=\"_blank\">What\'s Next DC </a>marketing communications conference put on by <a href=\"http://www.greenbuzzagency.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Green Buzz Agency</a>. For a nice recap, please read Daria Steigman\'s <a href=\"http://www.steigmancommunications.com/2011/01/27/is-your-marketing-team-obsolete/\" target=\"_blank\">post on the Independent Thinking blog</a> and also <a href=\"http://storify.com/tinu/whats-next-dc-presentations-overviews-takeaways\" target=\"_blank\">check out slides</a> from the conference.\n\nMost speakers at the conference talked about social media, and how traditional marketing is dead (the press release is dead, social media shouldn\'t even be called that, etc.). And although I agree that social media has transformed the marketing landscape, making everyone \"networked\" as one speaker put it, it has not changed the fundamentals of marketing nor the viability of old school marketing channels.  One speaker said marketers need to be \"remarkable.\" To put it in old school terms, what is it to be remarkable if not to find your USP (unique selling proposition)?\n\nIn my opinion, marketing is still marketing regardless of whether the tools have changed. If you don\'t know what you are selling, or what sets you apart, you will not succeed, no matter how many Twitter followers you have or how much of a \"digital native\" you are.\n\nYesterday, I experienced true old school marketing. I had a leak in my refrigerator and needed to find someone to fix it ASAP (before the snow that hit us yesterday), but had no Internet access or Smart Phone. I couldn\'t tweet out my concern or go to Angie\'s List  (my go-to spot for all matters home related).  What did I do? First, I remembered a electrical/plumbing place I have seen advertised in the paper and online. I called 411, got the number and called them. They don\'t do appliances. Back to square one. Then, it dawned on me that I have PHONE BOOKS/Yellow Pages.  I looked up appliance repair, called a place that said they do emergencies, and about two hours later, a technician was at my house fixing the fridge.\n\nThe moral of this story is don\'t give up on old school marketing just yet. Not everything is solved by the Internet or Twitter. In fact, today, many people in Maryland are sitting without power or Internet access due to the snow. Many don\'t have Smart Phones. Some may not have Internet access, or only have it at work.  This is why ads still work. The Yellow Pages still work. And yes, well written press releases still work too.\n\nAre you still marketing old school?','Marketing old school','','publish','open','open','','marketing-old-school','','','2011-01-27 12:39:37','2011-01-27 17:39:37','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1040',0,'post','',1),
(1043,4,'2011-01-30 11:37:14','2011-01-30 16:37:14','Being personal. That\'s the one thing that will make you stand out.\n\nWe are living, increasingly, in an electronic world. People send email and texts instead of picking up the phone. People tweet out questions to strangers in the hopes of getting the wisdom of the crowd. But, as <a href=\"http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/2011/01/21/connecting-in-person/\" target=\"_blank\">we talked about here,</a> people want to connect personally, one to one.  Although we <em>feel </em>more connected, we are more isolated from other people. It is now possible for you to know what your friend from elementary school had for breakfast (on Facebook) while not knowing who your neighbor is.\n\nThis morning, on CBS Sunday Morning, Steve Hartman <a href=\"http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/01/24/assignment_america/main7279295.shtml?tag=mncol;lst;2\" target=\"_blank\">investigated the handwritten thank you note.</a> He has never been a fan, but his colleague Byron Pitts is. Pitts sends out thank you notes to the people he interviews, to others who have helped him. This makes Pitts stand out. Those people will remember the gesture.\n\nI am not sure if it is generational, cultural or personality-driven, but some people just don\'t seem to get that people want to be treated like people. If someone is sick or has been sick, you ask about their health. If someone is facing a problem, you offer support.  Yet many people don\'t do this even though it takes very little effort for a big reward. Some politicians have gotten far because they treat people like people.  George Bush gained popularity in part because he was personal--asking people about their families, following up, sending thank you notes.\n\nDon\'t underestimate the power of reaching out, of being personal. It could be a handwritten note, or it could be a telephone call. Reach out to people, and you will stand out to them.','One thing that will make you stand out','','publish','open','open','','one-thing-that-will-make-you-stand-out','','','2011-01-30 11:37:14','2011-01-30 16:37:14','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1043',0,'post','',0),
(1047,4,'2011-02-01 13:12:11','2011-02-01 18:12:11','No, this is not a post about the power of positive thinking. It\'s about the power of positive reviews.\n\nHow many times have you bought a book, gone to a movie, hired a contractor, eaten at a restaurant because you read/heard a positive review? I would bet that the answer is many times.\n\nCase in point. <a href=\"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/03/02/AR2010030203491.html\" target=\"_blank\">The Washington Post raved about Helen Simonson\'s book</a>,  <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">Major Pettigrew\'s Last Stand</span>. In fact, many other reviewers also raved.  So I went out to buy it. And guess what, I am not liking it quite that much. But the sale has been made.\n\nGetting a third-party positive review is definitely worth its weight in gold. This is why public relations is so valuable, even in the age of social media. You get one great review, and you will get lots of interest (and possibly lots of sales).  The sticking point lies in whether the product/service/movie/restaurant delivers the goods. You may get an initial sale but no follow up sales if the product does not live up to its review.\n\nAs companies look to save money, many are doing away with PR help. This is not good business. Good PR can lead to good reviews, which in turn, may lead to increased sales.\n\nWhen has a review turned your opinion? Please share any stories.','Positive Power!','','publish','open','open','','positive-power','','','2011-02-01 13:12:11','2011-02-01 18:12:11','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1047',0,'post','',0),
(1052,4,'2011-02-02 09:48:40','2011-02-02 14:48:40','Two items from today\'s Washington Post caught my eye.  One was about Jay Carney, the new White House press secretary and the other was a letter to the editor regarding Pepco.\n\n<strong>Speaking for the White House</strong>\n\nJay Carney is taking over from Robert Gibbs as White House press secretary. Carney was a journalist, and many people think he will bring a journalist\'s viewpoint to the White House briefing room. Dana Milbank wonders \"Can Jay Carney Hack it as a Flack\" in an<a href=\"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2011/02/01/AR2011020105165.html?hpid=opinionsbox1\" target=\"_blank\"> op-ed in today\'s Washington Post</a>. Few people will miss Gibbs, so maybe by comparison, Carney will already do better. I wrote about Gibbs snark <a href=\"http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/2010/01/20/how-you-say-it/\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a> If one thing Carney can learn from Gibbs is how not to act. I think the press corps are looking for information without sarcasm.\n\n<strong>Proving advertising doesn\'t turn the lights back on</strong>\n\nAnother hot topic this week (other than the ongoing protests in Egypt) is Pepco. If you live in the DC area you know that Pepco failed, once again, to restore power in a timely fashion following a weird snow storm last week. At one point, they had 300,000 customers without power and in many cases, it took them three or four days to restore power to all of them.  Witness how people felt about it, and more importantly, about how Pepco mishandled communications by reading<a href=\"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2011/02/01/AR2011020105906.html\" target=\"_blank\"> letters to the editor in today\'s Post.</a> Notice the title of the piece includes the word \"outrage.\"\n\nThis latest episode in Pepco\'s ongoing reliability struggle proves <a href=\"http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/2010/12/06/update-pepco-and-reliability/\" target=\"_blank\">my point</a> that no matter how many nice ads and promising assertions you make, you have to back them up with real action. As you recall, Pepco started running an ad campaign talking about all the stuff they are doing to make themselves more reliable and responsive. Well, sadly, it was just words. No one believed it then, and certainly, no one believes it now. Instead of spending lots of ad dollars on an image campaign, Pepco should spend some money figuring out how to increase its reliability, responsiveness and communications with customers.\n\nThe bottom line for both these stories is that communications matter a whole lot. How you handle communications, what you say, when you say it, can truly impact public opinion and your image.','WaPo: Carney hopes and Pepco failures','','publish','open','open','','wapo-carney-hopes-and-pepco-failures','','','2011-02-02 09:48:40','2011-02-02 14:48:40','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1052',0,'post','',0),
(1055,4,'2011-02-14 09:39:46','2011-02-14 14:39:46','Have you checked your website lately? Chances are good that you haven\'t, especially if it is built on a non-blogging platform. But go ahead, check it for these four items today.\n<ol>\n	<li><strong> Does it load quickly?</strong> How long does it take for the average person to open your website? If it takes too long, you may lose that person.</li>\n	<li><strong>Does it load correctly?</strong> Are all the pages formatted correctly, and is the format readable? I have opened pages only to find HTML gobbledygook.</li>\n	<li><strong> Is the contact information current and accurate?</strong> The basics--address, phone, email--should all be up to date and you should make sure they are correct.</li>\n	<li> <strong>Do you provide the information your prospective customers or clients need?</strong> If you are a retail location, do you have your hours posted? If you are a restaurant, do you have your menu posted? If you are a salon, do you have a listing (including pricing) of your services?</li>\n</ol>\nIt is worth remembering that people go to websites to find useful information. If they can\'t access your website or find the information they need, THEY WILL GO ELSEWHERE.\n\nWhat types of things do you look for in a website? What turns you away?','4 items to check on your website','','publish','open','open','','4-items-to-check-on-your-website','','','2011-02-14 09:39:46','2011-02-14 14:39:46','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1055',0,'post','',0),
(1058,4,'2011-02-22 08:53:02','2011-02-22 13:53:02','How many blogs have you stopped reading? How many products have you stopped buying? How many ads do you ignore?\n\nIf you answered just one to any of these questions, the reason is because whatever the blog/ad/product/service has become irrelevant.\n\nSome irrelevancy is by attrition--meaning that you will stop buying a product because you no longer need it (like baby diapers when your child is potty trained). Other irrelevancy is because you just don\'t care anymore or the information does not ring true.\n\nHow do you become irrelevant?\n\nIf you are a blogger:\n<ul>\n	<li>You write about things that people don\'t care about or are not interested in.</li>\n	<li>You write about the same things over and over.</li>\n	<li>You write about you, you and more about you.</li>\n	<li>You never update your blog.</li>\n</ul>\nIf you are an advertisment:\n<ul>\n	<li>You advertise the same offer, over and over</li>\n	<li>You advertise an offer with tons of small print</li>\n	<li>You advertise things that are just not true (we beat any price, for instance).</li>\n	<li>What you advertise does not match reality.</li>\n</ul>\nIf you are a product:\n<ul>\n	<li>You don\'t work as promised.</li>\n	<li>You don\'t fill a need.</li>\n	<li>You are not well priced.</li>\n</ul>\nIf you are a website:\n<ul>\n	<li>You have outdated information.</li>\n	<li>You look like you were designed in 1999.</li>\n	<li>Your visitors can\'t find the information they need to make a purchase/visit your location/etc.</li>\n</ul>\n<strong>Basically, you become irrelevant when you forget what your audience needs or wants. </strong>\n\nWhat makes you tune out marketing? Let me know what makes blogs/ads/websites/brochures irrelevant.','How to become irrelevant','','publish','open','open','','how-to-become-irrelevant','','','2011-02-22 08:53:02','2011-02-22 13:53:02','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1058',0,'post','',0),
(1061,4,'2011-02-28 08:57:06','2011-02-28 13:57:06','Sometimes it seems like everywhere you turn someone is telling you to be on Twitter, Facebook and so forth. Lots of companies are now advertising that you should follow them.\n\nLet me say there is a huge benefit to being on social media. Some companies will find most if not all  of their target audience on social networks.  But, and there always is that but, if you are not prepared to be on social media, don\'t be on it. It can hurt more than help.\n\nLet me give you an example of how being on social media when you are not ready can actually cause more damage than any benefit.  Last week, I bought a mattress from Sleepy\'s, \"the mattress professionals.\"  The mattress was supposed to be delivered on Tuesday, between 3 pm and 7 pm (and, no, this is not the cable company although Sleepy\'s gives them a run for their money). By 6 pm, it was obvious the delivery was going to be delayed. I tweeted to @sleepys several times. No answer. Mattress finally got delivered at nearly  9 pm.  I did not receive a tweet back from Sleepy\'s until nearly<span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\"> 5 pm the next day, </span>asking me to email  my concern. The next day, they tweeted to email my concern (which I already had done.). By Friday, I had an email from them asking me to test the email address!!!! And, someone from customer service finally called me Friday afternoon.\n\nAlthough there are many things wrong with Sleepy\'s (and if you are interested in my opinion of this company just drop me a line),<strong> it adds insult to injury for them to be on social media and not to respond to social media.</strong>\n\n<span style=\"color:#ff0000;\">Social media for companies, whether it be for customer service or for image, requires a sizeable time investment.  It requires monitoring for mentions. It requires responsiveness. </span>\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<strong>Is social media the right venue for you? Here\'s a checklist to determine the answer:</strong>\n<ul>\n	<li><strong>I have the time and/or the staff to manage social media.</strong></li>\n	<li><strong>I have the understanding of how social media works.</strong></li>\n	<li><strong>I will respond to customer complaints on social media like I do on traditional outlets.</strong></li>\n	<li><strong>I will monitor for mentions consistently/constantly.</strong></li>\n</ul>\nIf you can\'t commit to this checklist, social media may not be the right venue for you.\n\nIf your company does not have the staff/time to deal with social media,  do yourself a favor, and do not get it to the game. You will make  matters worse. By saying you have social media outlets, you are  encouraging your customers to contact you there. If you are not there,  then your customers will become even more frustrated. Frustration can  lead to anger and upset. And because of the power of amplification, the  problem will get transmitted to more and more people.\n\nYour thoughts?','Is social media the right venue for you?','','publish','open','open','','is-social-media-the-right-venue-for-you','','','2011-02-28 08:57:06','2011-02-28 13:57:06','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1061',0,'post','',0),
(1063,4,'2011-03-07 15:35:58','2011-03-07 20:35:58','Last week, I found out my accountant is in the hospital. His partner cannot take on new work and the only remedy I was offered was to file an extension. When I asked for a referral to another accountant, the partner was not able (or willing) to give me a name. In short, my accountant apparently had no plan B, no contingency plan in case of emergency.\n\nMost of us do not plan for contingencies. We have our plan A, and we rarely think about what could happen if things do not go as expected. In cases of emergency, in communications having a plan B is also known as crisis communication planning or management. Well-managed organizations will have some sort of crisis plan.\n\nMany people do not like to think about the what if. It makes them nervous. When consulting with a nonprofit recently, it turned out that the organization had absolutely no crisis plan. And, by the way, a crisis does not necessarily have to  your fault or an emergency, or something horrible.\n\nContingency planning in general has to do with having alternative plans.  Say that the Internet goes out, are there other ways people can find information about you? If so, where? You cannot plan for every situation but you can have a general sense of what scenarios are most likely to happen, and what the procedures and communications are for each of those top situations. For instance, if you have a spokesperson, you may want to plan for the day the spokesperson is out with the flu (as I mentioned before, it doesn\'t have to be a dire situation). Who is the alternate spokesperson?\n\nIn short, because life will not go as planned, you should always plan for that fact.\n\n(Note to the accountants: you could set up a list of trusted accountants you refer to or you could hire temporary help for tax season.)\n\nHow do you create contingency plans?','Plan B...do you have one?','','publish','open','open','','plan-b-do-you-have-one','','','2011-03-07 15:35:58','2011-03-07 20:35:58','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1063',0,'post','',2),
(1066,4,'2011-03-08 13:07:22','2011-03-08 18:07:22','Today, I got this precious direct marketing letter:\n<blockquote>Dear Deborah:\n\nAgain congratulations on the purchase of your home [address omitted].We hope that it has been a pleasant experience for you.\n\nWe have been trying to contact you regarding our termite warranty but have been unable to do so. We also did not receive a response to our previous letter. Please call [name and contacted omitted0 at your earliest convenience so that we may discuss this important matter with you. A<span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">lso, be sure to ask about our PEST CONTROL SERVICE PLAN for as low as $376 per year. This will be our final effort to contact you by mail. This will be our final effort to contact you by mail.</span></blockquote>\n(Yes, in the letter the last sentence is repeated and it is underlined.)\n\nLet\'s break this down. This company is trying to get me to buy a service plan at $376 per year.  They are direct mailing me off a list of recent home buyers.  Apparently, I should contact them immediately and if not, they will do what? Apparently, they will start contacting me by other means other than mail. Will they be sending out their bully squad to my door to get me to purchase their plan?\n\nAlso, they claim they have been trying to reach me. What they have been doing is sending this same letter at least three times.\n\nWhat this letter is doing, plain and simple, is bullying me.  This company thinks that sending a letter like this will get me to call them, when all it does is make me think that they just don\'t get it.\n\nWhat do people do when they are being bullied? Do they turn around and do business with you or do they run the other way?','Are you trying to bully your customers?','','publish','open','open','','are-you-trying-to-bully-your-customers','','','2011-03-08 13:07:22','2011-03-08 18:07:22','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1066',0,'post','',0),
(1072,4,'2011-03-16 10:30:42','2011-03-16 15:30:42','There are things that I see happening on social media and on the web that are irritating. They happen way too often. Here are my top peeves (and least of this week).\n\nOne of my top ten peeves of all time, and which I have discussed before, is the i<strong>mpersonal invitation to connect on LinkedIn.</strong> In the past few weeks, I have received at least four or five invitations from people I don\'t know and who haven\'t made the slightest attempt to personalize the LinkedIn generated note \"I\'d like to add you to my professional network.\"  I got one this morning, and I fired back a note telling the person in question that we hadn\'t ever met, and that a tip for her would be too personalize the note.  She wrote back this really clueless note:\n<blockquote>Please accept my sincere apologies. I must have mistaken you for someone else. I  thought I had met you at a XXXX function. I never send blind invitations.\nI  am currently writing for a couple of online magazines and am building local pr  connections.\nSo sorry to be an annoyance.</blockquote>\nWhy is this clueless? Because, a)  she did send a blind invitation. She could have written something like, \"We met at a XXX event last week, and I would like to connect with you here.\"  And b) she is telling me she is using LinkedIn to build connections, which I interpret as using this forum to send out countless queries and newsletters , etc.  So, she is not seeking to build a connection with ME, she is seeking to build her network to profit her work.\n\nOther irritants are:\n\n<strong>Blog posts that are not shareable on social media. </strong>And ironically, <a href=\"http://allthings.womma.org/2011/03/15/applying-dating-%E2%80%9Cdos-and-don%E2%80%99ts%E2%80%9D-to-social-media-marketing-best-practices-you-know-more-than-you-think-you-do/\" target=\"_blank\">this post,</a> from the All things WOM, from the Word of Mouth Association, IS NOT SHAREABLE. Has no share buttons. Really. How stupid is this.\n\n<strong>Web redesigns that are not useful to the reader.</strong> The Washington Post redesigned their website and recently re-launched it. As far as I can tell, readers were not consulted.  In a note to readers, sent THREE days after the re-launch the Post says:\n<blockquote>The Washington Post is now even more essential and more in tune with the way you interact with  news.\n<ul>\n	<li>Follow  stories as they develop and share your ideas as they evolve</li>\n	<li>Watch  events unfold with new video programs</li>\n	<li>Know  what\'s getting the most buzz and what\'s really happening in D.C.</li>\n	<li>Get  straight to your favorite coverage with destination hubs for Politics, Local,  Sports and Opinions</li>\n</ul>\n</blockquote>\nI guess what they mean by \"more essential\" is less stuff to read. Now I have to dig through the site to get to local news. And where are the blogs? Oh, and by screwing around with the site, lots of the Post\'s blog RSS feeds were messed up. Nice going.\n\n<strong>Using swear words on Twitter</strong>. I have written about this before, and I will again in light of <a href=\"http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/16/business/media/16adco.html?_r=1\" target=\"_blank\">this article</a> in the New York Times. I swear all the time, just not on Twitter. Because Twitter is a broadcast medium that is also archived. What you say here is on the record for ALL to see.  It shows a lack of thought to use your words carelessly.\n\n<strong>Promoting yourself endlessly or worse, showing off on Twitter</strong>. There is one particular person, whom I just unfollowed today, who felt it necessary to be a braggart at every turn.  It was things like this: \"aren\'t you jealous of my fabulous view?\" with an attached picture. Why do I want to read this? Why do I care? Again, Twitter is a broadcast medium. What you say can be seen by 1000s of people.\n\n<strong>Sending too many (or useless) email marketing messages.</strong> The AMA-DC was sending me four emails A WEEK. I told them it was too much. They unsubscribed me for criticizing them. And here is<a href=\"http://www.entrepreneur.com/2011/02/why-customers-fans-and-followers-unsubscribe-unlike-and-unfollow.php?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+entrepreneur%2Fdailydose+%28Entrepreneur+-+Small+Business+News%29&amp;utm_content=Google+Reader\" target=\"_blank\"> Entrepreneur\'s take </a>on why people stop following you. Read it and see that too many emails or too many posts irritate people.  (And get this, I keep getting Comcast\'s marketing missives, even though they CANCELLED my account.)\n\nAny of these get your goat too?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Web and social media irritants','','publish','open','open','','web-and-social-media-irritants','','','2011-03-16 10:30:42','2011-03-16 15:30:42','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1072',0,'post','',5),
(1074,4,'2011-03-18 09:43:01','2011-03-18 14:43:01','Yesterday, <a href=\"http://www.nytimes.com/2011/03/18/business/media/18times.html?_r=1&amp;hp\" target=\"_blank\">the New York Times announced its new subscription plan</a>. Basically, you can read 20 articles on their site per month for free, and if you want continued access you will need to pay $15 a month. This applies to your IPad subscription too. If you are a print subscriber, your digital access is included.\n\nIt is very telling that this announcement generated more than 2,000 comments on the New York Times site (more would have come in but the NYT shut down comments). I started reading through them, and the majority of what I read seemed to indicate that readers will not pay for access. The biggest argument: it is too expensive.  The second biggest argument: NYTimes.com already carries lots of advertising.\n\nWill the pay wall work? In my opinion, it will backfire for various reasons:\n<ul>\n	<li><strong>Human nature</strong>:  People do not like to pay for what they used to get for free. And, there are plenty of other news sites on the Web that are still free.</li>\n	<li><strong>Work arounds:</strong> If you click through on a Facebook or Twitter link to a New York Times article, you get around <strong>the paywall.</strong></li>\n	<li><strong>Too much money</strong>: People are looking for ways to save money and paying for a digital subscription is probably an easy budget cut.</li>\n	<li><strong>Fewer readers=lost revenue: S</strong>o say some people continue to pay for the content on the New York Times site. It will never be the same amount as the people accessing it for free.  With fewer numbers, they will either have to charge less for their online ads (and lose revenue) or lose advertisers unwilling to pay for fewer impressions.</li>\n</ul>\nFor many years, I was a subscriber to the New York Times print edition. I was a huge fan of their crossword puzzle and I loved the Sunday Times. But, the price was exorbitant. I had to stop my subscription. I missed the crossword puzzle, yes, but not the huge bill. People will do the same with the NYTimes.com site. They will miss it at first, but they won\'t pay for it because of budgetary constraints.\n\nUPDATE: Just came across <a href=\"http://emediavitals.com/content/metered-model-gains-traction-digital-pay-option\" target=\"_blank\">this article from emedia vitals,</a> which says that some sites using the \"metered model\" have actually gained visitors. Is it that you think you get what you pay for?\n\nYour thoughts? Take my poll.\n\n[polldaddy poll=4741554]\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F03%2F18%2Fthe-new-york-times-pay-wall%2F&amp;linkname=The%20New%20York%20Times%27%20Pay%20Wall\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','The New York Times\' Pay Wall','','publish','open','open','','the-new-york-times-pay-wall','','','2011-03-18 09:43:01','2011-03-18 14:43:01','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1074',0,'post','',1),
(1080,4,'2011-03-21 12:14:50','2011-03-21 17:14:50','Last week, I attended a <a href=\"http://www.wwpr.org\" target=\"_blank\">Washington Women In PR</a> (WWPR) panel on \"The Art of Storytelling.\" WWPR\'s Past President Debbie Friez has a <a href=\"http://www.burrellesluce.com/freshideas/2011/03/the-art-of-storytelling/\" target=\"_blank\">great recap on the BurellesLuce blog. </a>\n\nWhile I agree with the concept that creating a story will help your organization to connect with its target audience, one thing was not answered. What makes the story work?\n\nDanny Harris of<a href=\"http://peoplesdistrict.com/\" target=\"_blank\"> People\'s Distric</a>t said that stories help \"show the texture,\" which I take to mean give life and detail to otherwise dry and boring concepts. For instance, if I tell you I saw a homeless person on a street corner, that means nothing. But if I tell you that I stopped to talk to the homeless person, and he was able to tell me that because of a health issue he lost his job, and then his house, now you understand the situation. The story fills in the details.\n\nStories should be memorable, ideally. But then again, not every story, and certainly not corporate stories, is memorable.  Stories should aim to create recognition and let you find commonality with them through the details they impart. Yet what details will resonate with your audience?\n\n<strong>One thing not one person on the panel said and which I think is absolutely critical for storytelling is this: authenticity</strong>.\n\nAlthough it is a much-vaunted word (especially on social media), authenticity is a concept that is often lacking in marketing communications. When something doesn\'t ring true it is because it is not authentic. Case in point:  my criticism of Pepco\'s ads about customers being first. Those ads were simply not authentic. Why? Because anyone who has had to deal with Pepco knows that customers are NOT first. Same goes for Comcast (Here is a total aside, I went to Comcast to return equipment and saw a sign that said \"Customers are our first priority.\" Of course, the customer service office was a small cramped affair where a dozen people were waiting in line for one or two surly customer service reps. Yes, I am sure Comcast puts customers first.)\n\nIf you are going to use stories to relay your marketing message you have to be sure they are authentic. People see through the BS. And people who see through it will now have a really bad impression about your organization.\n\nWhat do you think makes stories work?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F03%2F21%2Fwhat-makes-stories-work%2F&amp;linkname=What%20makes%20stories%20work%3F\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','What makes stories work?','','publish','open','open','','what-makes-stories-work','','','2011-03-21 12:14:50','2011-03-21 17:14:50','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1080',0,'post','',0),
(1086,4,'2011-03-22 10:53:36','2011-03-22 15:53:36','Being a small business, I don\'t often get cover letters and resumes, although once I got a perfume-scented resume on blue letterhead that went directly in the trash.  Yesterday, I got a cover letter that was truly stunning, and not in a good way. It was stunning because it was such a good example of how NOT to write a letter. I am posting it here, with comments (and with identity removed, of course).\n<blockquote>To  Whom it May Concern:</blockquote>\n<span style=\"color:#3366ff;\">No personalization...unforgivable since I am the only person listed on my website.</span>\n<blockquote>I  would like to be considered for employment with your company, so here is a  little background on my education and experiences.</blockquote>\n<span style=\"color:#3366ff;\">Doesn\'t mention what type of employment is being sought.</span>\n<blockquote>I  have a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration from [XXX ]University, where I double majored in Marketing and Business  Management.  I also earned a minor in  Professional Communications.  I  achieved a GPA of 3.49, while also being extremely involved in extra-curricular  activities and community service opportunities on campus.</blockquote>\n<span style=\"color:#3366ff;\">Would have put this down further...or talked about what subjects I learned about, more specifically.</span>\n<blockquote>I’ve  gained experience relevant to the business industry through two internships, one  with[xxx}- a marketing firm, and the other with[xxx}.  These internships  allowed me to utilize the information I had been learning at[the University] and  have allowed for me to gain experience in the marketing field.</blockquote>\n<span style=\"color:#3366ff;\">No specificity: the writer could have given examples of specific tasks or information learned.</span>\n<blockquote>Before  you ask, I’ll go ahead and answer the big questions in your mind.  Yes, I am currently in [other state]  No, I do not plan to work from here; I’m  ready and willing to relocate.  And  finally, No, I understand that I’m entry-level and do not expect to receive  relocation funds.</blockquote>\n<span style=\"color:#3366ff;\">Geez. Now you are a mind-reader. Don\'t assume anything.</span>\n<blockquote>I  have enclosed my resume for your review.   Also, my LinkedIn profile can be viewed at[LinkedIn],  if that better fits your viewing preferences.</blockquote>\n<span style=\"color:#3366ff;\">This is nit-picky but you have attached not enclosed your resume, since this is an email. </span>\n<blockquote>I  would be happy to aid you and your company in future endeavors, if you will  please contact me at [telephone and email] I would welcome the chance to discuss  openings.</blockquote>\n<span style=\"color:#3366ff;\">Notice that nearly every paragraph and sentence starts with I. It\'s all about the writer and nothing about my company.</span>\n<blockquote>Thank  you for your consideration.\n\nSincerely,</blockquote>\nI wrote the author of this email back and told her there were no opportunities. I also gave her a couple of tips. She didn\'t reply. I am pretty positive this letter will get her nowhere.\n\nHere are my top three tips on how to write an effective cover letter:\n<ol>\n	<li><strong>Personalize: </strong>Have a name (or at the very least a department or title). Mention the name of the company you are applying to, and why you are interested in working at that company.</li>\n	<li><strong>Summarize your background, but in relation to the potential job</strong>: In college, you probably took arts classes and sociology, etc. but perhaps you took a really great writing class that would help you be a copywriter, right?</li>\n	<li><strong>Talk about what you can do for the company: </strong>Can you bring in business, deal with clients, sweep the floor really well? What do you bring to the table?</li>\n</ol>\nWhat are your tips? What are the biggest mistakes you see when you get cover letters?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F03%2F22%2Fhow-not-to-write-a-cover-letter%2F&amp;linkname=How%20Not%20to%20Write%20a%20Cover%20Letter\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','How Not to Write a Cover Letter','','publish','open','open','','how-not-to-write-a-cover-letter','','','2011-03-22 10:53:36','2011-03-22 15:53:36','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1086',0,'post','',1),
(1091,4,'2011-03-24 12:29:00','2011-03-24 17:29:00','It seems lots of people and companies out there are trying hard to leave a bad impression.  If you want to join their ranks, here are a few tips:\n<ul>\n	<li>Don\'t respond to inquiries. If someone calls or emails, free free to ignore.</li>\n	<li>Don\'t say thank you. If someone buys a product from you or gives you a contact or anything, don\'t bother saying thank you. That would be nice.</li>\n	<li>Keep pounding away with the same message. Send the same offer over and over, a couple of times of day if possible.</li>\n	<li>Solicit free advice. Ask around for all the free advice you can. After all, it\'s just advice, right?</li>\n	<li>After you get your free advice, feel free to ignore it. Someone\'s an expert but that doesn\'t mean he/she knows what she/he is saying.</li>\n	<li>Cancel or change plans at the last minute. Your time is more valuable than anybody else\'s.</li>\n	<li>Use foul language. If you are on Twitter, go ahead, drop an f-bomb or two.</li>\n	<li>Be crass, self-involved, self-promoting. It\'s all about you.</li>\n</ul>\nMy question is: how hard are you trying to leave a bad impression?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F03%2F24%2Fhow-to-leave-a-bad-impression%2F&amp;linkname=How%20to%20leave%20a%20bad%20impression\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','How to leave a bad impression','','publish','open','open','','how-to-leave-a-bad-impression','','','2011-03-24 12:29:00','2011-03-24 17:29:00','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1091',0,'post','',1),
(1095,4,'2011-03-28 12:32:20','2011-03-28 17:32:20','Unless you are Verizon, a company that seemingly has no cap on the amount of marketing dollars it can spend promoting FIOS, you have a budget. Use your budget wisely. Sounds simple yet how many companies don\'t get this?\n\nYou may be wasting your marketing dollars (and creating bad blood along the way) if:\n<ul>\n	<li>You are sending enewsletters without permission or too many times a week or without a clear, easy opt-out</li>\n	<li>You are sending non-targeted direct mail</li>\n	<li>You are using robo-calls to mass dial anyone in an area code (this is not only stupid, it is illegal)</li>\n	<li>You are using threatening language</li>\n	<li>You are sending multiple pieces and none of them have the same offer</li>\n	<li>You are sending marketing pieces that contain typos, grammatical and/or spelling mistakes</li>\n	<li>You are sending marketing pieces that look home-made (and not in the enticing, chocolate chip cookie kind of way)</li>\n	<li>You are mistaking the fact that someone once gave you a business card for the opportunity to blanket him/her with marketing messages</li>\n	<li>You are using your social media platforms to sell, sell, sell...never bothering to interact/engage</li>\n	<li>Your marketing does not match reality (you say you offer 24/7 support but what that means is that you can hold for assistance for 24 hours or more)</li>\n</ul>\nMarketing that works is strategic and thoughtful. Sending out hundreds of letters to people who have no need for your service (like sending coupons for garage door openers to people who live in apartment buildings) is a waste. Use your dollars wisely.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F03%2F28%2Fdont-waste-your-marketing-dollars%2F&amp;linkname=Don%27t%20Waste%20Your%20Marketing%20Dollars\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Don\'t Waste Your Marketing Dollars','','publish','open','open','','dont-waste-your-marketing-dollars','','','2011-03-28 12:32:20','2011-03-28 17:32:20','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1095',0,'post','',0),
(1099,4,'2011-04-01 09:02:06','2011-04-01 14:02:06','Several days ago, a blogger on a well-respected site that I frequently read  stated that the gender gap on wages was a myth. He said that if women don\'t earn as much as men it is because they don\'t work as much (really, he said this).  He used all sorts of manipulated information that failed to address the underlying issues, such as women are usually also responsible for child care. I suspect that he was trying to be contentious to receive more traffic. I called out the post on Twitter, and the author attacked me personally saying I was acting like a victim. I am not making any of this up.\n\nA couple days after the Gender Gap is  a Myth post, a woman posted a strong rebuttal on the website, which pointed out some inconsistencies and omissions by the male blogger. In my mind, it made the male blogger look even worse. For me, the end result has been that I will not read anything the male blogger writes anymore because a) I have lost any respect for his assertions and b) I think that he writes to get a rise out of his audience rather than to inform. His reputation is ruined for me, and there is very little he can do to change it (if he even cares).\n\nThe bottom line here is that what you publish online (on Twitter, Facebook, blogs, etc), how you respond to comments and how you interact with others who disagree with you all influence your reputation. You can create a reputation for being fair, or for being smart, or on the other hand, you could create a reputation for being a raconteur or a complete ass.  Your reputation matters. And it will influence what people think of you, what they say about you and whether they continue to read your stuff/subscribe to your blog and so forth.\n\n<strong>Reputation can indeed affect your bottom line.</strong>\n\nWhat is your reputation? What do you think people think  about you based on what you put out there? Do you think it matters? And if you don\'t think it matters, why?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F04%2F01%2Freputation-matters%2F&amp;linkname=Reputation%20matters\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Reputation matters','','publish','open','open','','reputation-matters','','','2011-04-01 09:02:06','2011-04-01 14:02:06','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1099',0,'post','',0),
(1105,4,'2011-04-12 09:26:21','2011-04-12 14:26:21','Last week, our elected officials took the whole country to the brink. Whether you think it was ideology, intransigence, real economic crisis or plain circus, we all got a painfully clear view of what kind of government we have, and it was not a pretty picture.\n\nBut not all is bad. We can derive some lessons from this latest governmental crisis that can be applied to marketing:\n<ul>\n	<li>At some point, spin does not compensate for the reality on the ground so stop spinning already!</li>\n	<li>Repeating the same phrase over and over becomes meaningless (e.g. \"we are fighting for the American people,\" \"we do not want to shut down the government.\")</li>\n	<li>Innuendo and doublespeak are not substitutes for clear communication.</li>\n	<li>Say what you want unequivocally. You want cuts to Planned Parenthood--say that. Don\'t make it a \"rider\" so that you can sneak it in under the radar.</li>\n	<li>Don\'t underestimate your audience...they can see through your antics.</li>\n	<li>Be prepared for people to question you, your motives and your goals.</li>\n	<li>There is a difference between justifying your actions and explaining your actions.</li>\n</ul>\nPoliticians, like PR or advertising professionals, are in the business of persuasion. And like PR or ad people, they are beholden to special interests (or as we call them \"clients\").\n\nWhat did you learn about marketing from our government\'s game of chicken?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F04%2F12%2Fwhat-we-can-learn-from-the-budget-negotiations%2F&amp;linkname=What%20we%20can%20learn%20from%20the%20budget%20%22negotiations%22\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','What we can learn from the budget \"negotiations\"','','publish','open','open','','what-we-can-learn-from-the-budget-negotiations','','','2011-04-12 09:26:21','2011-04-12 14:26:21','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1105',0,'post','',0),
(1108,4,'2011-04-19 10:03:13','2011-04-19 15:03:13','As a very small business, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications does not have a large marketing budget (seems a bit ironic). For instance, I have never printed a brochure, but I do have a website. Here are the list of things I do have, some of which are free, for marketing purposes:\n<ul>\n	<li><strong>Website</strong> (soon to be upgraded...stay tuned): This is the must-have of all must-haves, for the obvious reasons that you need to know that I exist, and without a website, I may as well not be here.</li>\n	<li><strong>Blog</strong> (you are here on Wordpress.com ...soon to be integrated to one site): Keeps you informed on what I am thinking.</li>\n	<li><strong>Business cards:</strong> printed, in color and double-sided. Well worth the investment. Latest ones were ordered from Greenerprinter.com and are made of 100% recycled paper.</li>\n	<li><strong>Twitter:</strong> Have met many people via Twitter not to mention the amount of information and ideas that I have picked up.</li>\n	<li><strong>LinkedIn</strong>: A profile on LinkedIn is like an online resume with feelers.</li>\n	<li><strong>Google alerts:</strong> I track several topics, and my own name. An invaluable source of current information only topped by</li>\n	<li><strong>Google reader</strong> (with a long list of great blogs and feeds): You need to be current in the marketing field...and probably any field. A good way to stay on top of stuff is to have your Google Reader feeding you the latest from the industry\'s top blogs, etc.</li>\n</ul>\nWhat I have that is not a must-have: a Facebook page for my business. This is in spite of evidence that says Facebook is a good place to be for businesses and brands.\n\nWhat are your must-haves? Let me know in the comments please!','My marketing must-haves','','publish','open','open','','my-marketing-must-haves','','','2011-04-19 10:03:13','2011-04-19 15:03:13','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1108',0,'post','',3),
(1111,4,'2011-04-20 12:09:41','2011-04-20 17:09:41','No doubt by now you have heard about the controversy surrounding Greg Mortenson an his book Three Cups of Tea, as well as the Central Asia Institute (CAI).<a href=\"http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2011/04/15/60minutes/main20054397.shtml\" target=\"_blank\"> CBS\' 60 Minutes did an expose on Mortenson</a>, and the report alleges Mortenson fabricated some part of his story and that the CAI has been mismanaging funds.\n\nThe story has been widely reported in the media. Jon Krakauer, who was interviewed in the 60 Minutes story, has issued his own expose.\n\nNow, there is a report that the Montana Attorney General will investigate the CAI.\n\nBottom line: Mortenson is facing serious challenges to his credibility.\n\nOne big lesson for everyone: serious investigative journalism is still a force to be reckoned with.\n\nOne big lesson for Mortenson: answer requests for interviews. 60 Minutes tried to interview him and he declined. Not answering makes it look like you are trying to hide something. Never a good idea.\n\nWhat do you think?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F04%2F20%2F1-big-lesson-from-3-cups-of-tea-controversy%2F&amp;linkname=1%20big%20lesson%20from%203%20Cups%20of%20Tea%20Controversy\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','1 big lesson from 3 Cups of Tea Controversy','','publish','open','open','','1-big-lesson-from-3-cups-of-tea-controversy','','','2011-04-20 12:09:41','2011-04-20 17:09:41','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1111',0,'post','',0),
(1114,4,'2011-04-21 10:16:33','2011-04-21 15:16:33','Say you walk into a store. You are browsing through racks of pants, and see a pair you like. You look for the size, and you can\'t find it. You look for the price, but there is no price tag. Now, you have to consider taking this to a sales associate to have her/him look up the size and price, and find one that has both these bits of information. The problem is that this information is crucial to you making a purchase.\n\nAnd then there is the bother factor. Have you ever taken an item to the cash register without a price tag? You will have to wait while a (usually slow) runner goes to find what the price is for your item. And the line will be held up.  Etc. Pain. Right?\n\nWithholding price information is going to make sales slow and customers unhappy. Yet, online, this happens all the time. There is a conference and you are trying to find out how much it costs. You have to click on the registration button. You get an invitation to an event, and cost is never listed until you decide to register.\n\nWhy do organizations insist on hiding crucial information? Do they think by not revealing the price of the seminar/event/workshop you are going to be more enticed to sign up?\n\nI believe that organizations need to be transparent and upfront regarding costs. If your gala costs $125 per person, tell me. If the workshop is free, tell me that too.\n\nIt is never a good idea to force your potential customers/clients/donors/supporters to ask for a price check.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F04%2F21%2Fhiding-crucial-information%2F&amp;linkname=Hiding%20crucial%20information\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Hiding crucial information','','publish','open','open','','hiding-crucial-information','','','2011-04-21 10:16:33','2011-04-21 15:16:33','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1114',0,'post','',1),
(1121,4,'2011-04-25 10:41:15','2011-04-25 15:41:15','Over on Twitter, lots of people tweet out their word of the day. Today\'s word for me is: vacuous.\n\nMerriam-Webster gives the following definition:\n<blockquote>\n<div><strong>1 :</strong> emptied of or lacking content</div>\n<div>\n<div>2<strong>:</strong> marked by lack of ideas or intelligence <strong>:</strong> <a href=\"http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/stupid\">stupid</a>, <a href=\"http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inane\">inane</a> &lt;a <em>vacuous</em> mind&gt; &lt;a <em>vacuous</em> movie&gt;</div>\n</div></blockquote>\n<div>\n<blockquote>\n<div>3<strong>:</strong> devoid of serious occupation <strong>:</strong> <a href=\"http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/idle\">idle</a></div></blockquote>\n</div>\nI am thinking of this word because I have been seeing so many vacuous blog posts lately. Vacuous because they lack intelligence. For instance, I read a post today about improving your Facebook page. One of the tips was to fill out all the information required. If that is not vacuous, I am not sure what is.\n\nI can certainly use vacuous in a sentence when it comes to social media. There are many vacuous tweets out there. Your social media profile makes you look vacuous. And so forth.\n\nYou should not assume that your reader knows everything, but you also should not assume your reader knows nothing. The latter promotes vacuous comments and posts.','WOTD: Vacuous','','publish','open','open','','wotd-vacuous','','','2011-04-25 10:41:15','2011-04-25 15:41:15','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1121',0,'post','',1),
(1123,4,'2011-04-26 10:11:32','2011-04-26 15:11:32','I know you need to add one more thing to your to-do list like you need to wake up Friday at 4 a.m. to watch the royal wedding,  but do consider doing this with every blog post, website page, tweet, etc that you put out there:\n\nCHECK THE LINKS!\n\nDoes your website have any broken links (or pages that don\'t appear correctly)? Does the sharing software on your blog work? All of it? When you post a link to a story on Twitter, are you sure the link is working?\n\nMany of us do not check these very often.\n\nCase in point: a blogger I follow has faulty sharing buttons on her blog. I read a good post by her, which I wanted to share on Twitter. I clicked on the link and all I got was a blank Twitter page--no title and no link. No good. I created a Bit.Ly short link and posted it anyway but she would have no way of knowing that the item had been shared unless her blog records ping-backs. I reported this to her, and I hope she is able to correct it.\n\nPrevent this from happening by occasionally checking these links. Just sayin\'.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F04%2F26%2Fcheck-your-links%2F&amp;linkname=Check%20your%20links\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Check your links','','publish','open','open','','check-your-links','','','2011-04-26 10:11:32','2011-04-26 15:11:32','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1123',0,'post','',0),
(1127,4,'2011-04-27 12:56:28','2011-04-27 17:56:28','On the news today: The Royal Wedding. Obama Releases Birth Certificate. The Royal Wedding. Katie Couric Leaving CBS. The Royal Wedding. Trump Shows How Egomaniacal he is. The Royal Wedding.\n\nDoes the news media reflect the public\'s interests, or does the public reflect the newsmedia? Is it a two-way conversation, or is it a two-way mirror, where we see what they are doing, but they don\'t see what we are doing?\n\nI am not sure, but I do think that what we see around us reflects a much larger problem--one where voyeurism and scandal dominate. And I don\'t like it.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F04%2F27%2Fmirror-mirror%2F&amp;linkname=Mirror%2C%20mirror%3F\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Mirror, mirror?','','publish','open','open','','mirror-mirror','','','2011-04-27 12:56:28','2011-04-27 17:56:28','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1127',0,'post','',0),
(1131,4,'2011-05-05 12:48:58','2011-05-05 17:48:58','I was away for a few days and had to wade through a pile of mail on my return. Among the \"important\" mail that I received, were two envelopes from the Automobile Association of America (AAA). One was a co-op  with USAirways (with which I have frequent flyer miles) and the other was a garden-variety membership solicitation.\n\nI used to be an AAA member but had let my membership lapse years ago when I discovered my car insurance company provides roadside assistance as part of my fee. What I like about AAA is that you can usually get good deals on hotels, so I read the I started reading the USAirways/AAA offer first.\n\nThe USAir/AAA offer included \"free enrollment\" ($15 initiation fee was waived), free second membership, free extra month and 750 miles. To find the total cost for the year, I had to read through it twice. It was hidden in the billing certificate.<strong> The total cost would be $65.50.</strong>\n\nThe offer from just AAA is the following: Free enrollment, free second membership, a savings of $25 on membership and a savings of $5 on automatic renewals.  Again, it was hard to find the <strong>total cost of $40.50.</strong>\n\nBasically, I would save money just having a regular AAA membership. Why would USAirways agree to send out an offer that when compared to the regular offer is more expensive? Remember, miles do not cost the airline anything and you can\'t get anywhere with 750 miles.  Why would you, the consumer, pay $25 for 750 miles? Remember, the actual service is being provided by AAA. The toll-free number for both offers is the general AAA number.\n\nAnd, why make the total cost so hard to find? As<a title=\"Hiding crucial information\" href=\"http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/2011/04/21/hiding-crucial-information/\" target=\"_blank\"> I wrote about a few days ago,</a> it is a bad idea to hide crucial information.  Consumers need to make decisions with the facts in front of them.\n\nI am not sure where to point the blame here: at AAA for not de-duping their mailing lists? at USAir for agreeing to have an offer sent out that is more than AAA\'s own offer, with similar timing? at AAA for thinking customers don\'t care about details?\n\n<strong>My bottom line: if you are going to have different offers, make sure that one is not cannibalizing the other.</strong>\n\nYour thoughts?','Two different offers from one service provider','','publish','open','open','','two-different-offers-from-one-service-provider','','','2011-05-05 12:48:58','2011-05-05 17:48:58','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1131',0,'post','',0),
(1133,4,'2011-05-06 11:02:49','2011-05-06 16:02:49','Chances are you do...especially if you are in marketing, or the government.\n\nI just came across the article <a href=\"http://www.prdaily.com/Main/Articles/8051.aspx\" target=\"_blank\">\"How to \'unsuck\' you jargon\" o</a>n Ragan\'s PR Daily. The key seems to go to <a href=\"http://unsuck-it.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Unsuck-It.com</a> and type in the offending phrase or word, such as \"above the fold\" or  \"leading edge.\"\n\nThe issue is that most people who are fluent in Jargonese don\'t really realize they are speaking in Jargonese. It seems perfectly natural to say things like: \"We are currently working on aligning our values with our mission,  while creating storytelling capacity in case there is a barrier to entry and we need to create synergies to boost the bottom line.\"\n\nBut hey, Unsuck-It.com may only be a stop-gap measure. You may need to restructure your language skills.\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F05%2F06%2Fdo-you-speak-jargonese%2F&amp;linkname=Do%20you%20speak%20Jargonese%3F\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Do you speak Jargonese?','','publish','open','open','','do-you-speak-jargonese','','','2011-05-06 11:02:49','2011-05-06 16:02:49','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1133',0,'post','',0),
(1137,4,'2011-05-09 09:40:30','2011-05-09 14:40:30','Perhaps if you studied politics, like I did, you think faction is a party or group that is usually causing some trouble. However, if you watch <a href=\"http://morganspurlock.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Morgan Spurlock\'s</a> The Greatest Movie Ever Sold, you will learn that a \"faction\" is a combination of the words fact and fiction. Meaning that it is neither fact nor fiction. Perhaps it is a fictionalized fact, or fact-based fiction. Sounds like many of the memoirs that are making the rounds these days.\r\n\r\nThe Greatest Movie Ever Sold is a faction, and it is a must-watch movie if you are even remotely interested in marketing. Spurlock, who is previously known for his documentary Super Size Me, has blown open the world of product placement and movie funding.\r\n\r\nThis movie is funny and it is pure genius. To see Spurlock go pitch this movie, about product placement and movie funding, to people in marketing is just about as humorous as any parody can be. But what is truly genius, is that it is real. This is how things get done in the world of marketing. Celebrity endorsements are real. Advertisers are looking for new ways to reach more audiences. And everything is for sale.\r\n\r\nI can\'t do this movie justice here. There was too much stuff that struck a chord, from creating a pitch, to finding the brand personality, to how to market a movie.\r\n\r\nHere\'s a the official trailer:\r\n\r\n[youtube id=T4Ng2P3zxfM&amp;w=560&amp;h=349]\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F05%2F09%2Ffaction-learn-what-this-is%2F&amp;linkname=%22Faction%3A%22%20learn%20what%20this%20is\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','\"Faction:\" learn what this is','','publish','open','open','','faction-learn-what-this-is','','','2011-08-12 00:29:36','2011-08-12 00:29:36','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1137',0,'post','',0),
(1145,4,'2011-05-10 09:22:41','2011-05-10 14:22:41','In my new favorite movie, <strong>POM Wonderful Presents: The Greatest Movie Ever Sold</strong>,  filmmaker Morgan Spurlock goes into a meeting to pitch his movie to Ban Deodorant. Apparently, Ban is not a top-tier deodorant, and the company is pretty interested in alternative ways of expanding their presence, thus the meeting with Spurlock.\n\nDuring the pitch, Morgan Spurlock asks the Ban people to describe their product. There is a long moment of silence that follows, and then the marketing people put their thinking caps on.   The audience laughed at this interval because of how ridiculous the scene was--and yet, I bet it plays out every day with businesses of every size, everywhere.\n\nYou must be able to answer this question: <strong>what is your product/service and what makes it different from any other product/service in the category.</strong>\n\nIf you can\'t describe your product/service and its attributes, you are in deep trouble. If you don\'t do any other marketing, you must work on that description and pound it in to your marketing and salespeople\'s heads. Can you imagine a Coca Cola salesperson being asked to describe his/her product and not being able to do so? All he/she has to say is \"Coke is it! \" (Just kidding, but they would probably say something to the effect that Coke is one of the world\'s top selling soft drinks, and it is a carbonated, sugar loaded \"delight.\")\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F05%2F10%2Fyou-must-be-able-to-answer-this-question%2F&amp;linkname=You%20must%20be%20able%20to%20answer%20this%20question\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','You must be able to answer this question','','publish','open','open','','you-must-be-able-to-answer-this-question','','','2011-05-10 09:22:41','2011-05-10 14:22:41','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1145',0,'post','',0),
(1148,4,'2011-05-16 10:14:43','2011-05-16 15:14:43','<strong>Free tacos, just for me!</strong>\n\nThis is brilliant, and it is part of California Tortilla\'s clever (and as they would say, spunky) online direct marketing campaign.  Let me explain: CalTort has a loyalty card (the \"Burrito Elito\" card), which allows you to accumulate points toward free food. To use it, you have to register it online. Every week, CalTort sends out a special of the week or some such to its database (which I am sure is sizeable). And every once in a while they send out a private note to card holders, such as the one I got today, which says, under the subject line \"We Miss You. And We Can Prove It\":\n<blockquote>Where the heck have you been? To show you how much we miss you, we got you a little something--but we can\'t give it to you unless you come in. So here\'s the scoop: we\'ve just put a <strong>FREE TACO</strong> on your Burrito Elito card. All you have to do is visit any Cal Tort, with your card, within 2 weeks of this email to get it. After 2 weeks it goes away--so hurry!\n\nWe\'re holding our breath until you get here. 1, 2, 3...</blockquote>\nWhy is this brilliant? Because it has a personality ( slightly irreverent),  it is personalized and gives me a REASON to go to CalTort. It also shows that a bit of creativity and some work can earn you customers and loyalty. Kudos to CalTort for knowing how to use direct email effectively.\n\n<strong>This is boring. Gen Y thinks this way.</strong>\n\nOn blog posts, in newspaper articles, on TV and in ads everywhere there are sweeping generalizations and assumptions that undermine your message. You (the blogger or copywriter) assume that if you find something boring, that everyone else finds it boring. You are a member of a generation, therefore you can speak for the entire cohort. No and no.\n\nIt is not very brilliant to assume that the world sees things EXACTLY like you do, like there is a universal key and you hold it. For instance, not everyone found the humor in Pineapple Express funny (I didn\'t), so if you start a movie ad with the line \"As funny as Pineapple Express,\" you will automatically lose people.\n\nBe mindful of what you are assuming and saying. Generalizations and stereotypes that are cast too wide will turn away more people than will be brought in.','Brilliant and not so brilliant','','publish','open','open','','brilliant-and-not-so-brilliant','','','2011-05-16 10:14:43','2011-05-16 15:14:43','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1148',0,'post','',0),
(1153,4,'2011-05-17 13:19:34','2011-05-17 18:19:34','In advertising, most media buyers are trying to find the holy grail of how much repetition/frequency you need to get your target audience to hear/understand and act on your message.  The other aspect is reach. Are you reaching the target audience through the channels you have chosen?\n\nIt occurs to me that some companies, namely the ones that have the MOST customer service issues (telecom companies, power companies and airlines) and some degree of monopoly, are the same ones that advertise the most aggressively.  In any given hour, you will see many spots for Comcast/Xfinity or for Verizon FIOS. I<a title=\"How to alienate people and lose customers\" href=\"http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/2010/05/28/how-to-alienate-people-and-lose-customers/\" target=\"_blank\"> wrote here</a> last year about the intense amount of direct mail FIOS sent me. These companies are hammering away repeating their message with a scary frequency.\n\nWhy? Because they have to. Nothing else is going to speak as loudly as lots of loud advertisements. Certainly not the customer experience or their \"stellar\" customer service.\n\nA few months ago I had a appliance repair person come to the house. He was great: fixed what needed to be fixed, and charged a fair price. He does NO advertising. His business, which is doing well, is strictly word of mouth.\n\nCan you imagine Comcast or Verizon having no advertising? On the other hand, you have few options when it comes to Internet, cable and phone providers. You will have to persuaded over and over and over.\n\nI am suspicious about any company that feels the need to advertise ALL the time.  It seems to me that high repetition and frequency, which are expensive to maintain, are the only way they will  retain any top-of-mind share.\n\nWhat do you think?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F05%2F17%2Frepetition-and-frequency%2F&amp;linkname=Repetition%20and%20frequency\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Repetition and frequency','','publish','open','open','','repetition-and-frequency','','','2011-05-17 13:19:34','2011-05-17 18:19:34','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1153',0,'post','',0),
(1159,4,'2011-05-24 09:42:12','2011-05-24 14:42:12','Johna Burke, of<a href=\"http://www.burrellesluce.com/freshideas/author/jburke/\" target=\"_blank\"> BurellesLuce</a> addressed WWPR last week (<a href=\"http://wwpr.org/2011/05/when-click-thru-rates-are-not-enough-new-strategies-in-social-media-measurements/\" target=\"_blank\">recap by Joan Coyle here</a>). She talked about social media measurement and provided lots of useful information about web tools and marketing strategies.\n\nOne thing, more than anything else Johna said,  struck me as crucial:  she talked about engagement and marriage. Engagement, Johna said, is just the beginning. It\'s when everything is all promise and excitement (isn\'t that ring all shiny?) Marriage (which most times follows the engagement) takes a lot of hard work and commitment.\n\nIn social media, people talk about engagement all the time. You have to \"engage\" with your followers. What does this really mean? Why are you engaging? The answer is simple--to build a lasting relationship (the \"marriage\").  If you are engaging just to engage and not to follow through, then you are just breaking promises. If you get caught up in getting Twitter followers but don\'t provide any substance or reason to \"stay together\" then you are looking at social media (and any marketing) as being all about the excitement of it rather than the substance (which should be your marketing goals and strategy).\n\nEngagement is just the beginning. It is your starting point to a marketing/communications strategy that seeks to accomplish a goal (e.g. establish thought leadership, increase sales, etc.).\n\nAre you getting engaged all the time or are you working on your marriage?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F05%2F24%2Fengagement-is-just-the-beginning%2F&amp;linkname=Engagement%20is%20just%20the%20beginning\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Engagement is just the beginning','','publish','open','open','','engagement-is-just-the-beginning','','','2011-05-24 09:42:12','2011-05-24 14:42:12','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1159',0,'post','',3),
(1164,4,'2011-06-02 13:45:36','2011-06-02 18:45:36','In English, we use capitals in the following situations:\n<ul>\n	<li>At the beginning of a sentence.</li>\n	<li>For proper names (Deborah Brody lives in Maryland)</li>\n	<li>For titles (President Barack Obama)</li>\n</ul>\nWe do not use capitals as a way to emphasize words, or make them prominent. For that purpose, we might underline,  italicize or bold the word in question.\n\nAll caps as in NO WAY AM I GOING OUTSIDE TODAY is generally used to denote excitement, anger or \"shouting.\"\n\nHowever, I see words being capitalized that don\'t need to be, all the time.\n\nNotice this help wanted ad from Craigslist (words underlined for emphasis by me):\n<blockquote>Our <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">Firm</span> has an immediate open for two<span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\"> Writers</span>/<span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">Proofreaders</span>\nWe are very flexible:\nYou can work as contractors, <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">Part Timers</span> or <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">Freelancers</span>\nYou can work from your house/office or/and our office\nYou must have experience writing for <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">Finance</span>, <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">Tax</span>, <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">Accounting</span>, and <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">Insurance</span> businesses\nYou must have experience in <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">Marketing,</span> A<span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">dvertising</span> and<span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\"> Sale</span>\nYou must be available to start next week\nYou must include your desired pay (per page and/or per hour) in your email or cover letter</blockquote>\nThis is a help-wanted ad for a proofreader! I am not sure the ad is intended to be a test or if it is showing (unwittingly) a desperate need for a proofreader.','Using capitalized words the right way','','publish','open','open','','using-capitalized-words-the-right-way','','','2011-06-02 13:45:36','2011-06-02 18:45:36','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1164',0,'post','',0),
(1170,4,'2011-06-03 06:42:42','2011-06-03 11:42:42','Perhaps in honor of the name of this blog (Caffeinated ideas and views on marketing), I have lots of things percolating in my head this morning.\n\n<strong>Reaching out</strong>\n\nWith social media fast becoming a substitute for print and electronic media, and with the idea that \"inbound\" marketing is best, we are seeing a drop-off in reaching out. For instance, there is a conference today in Washington that I only just found out about because someone in my Twitter stream is attending. This conference is intended for nonprofits. I am not sure what type of marketing was done for the conference, but I can assure you it was not a traditional advertising in many channels approach.  I will place bets that the nonprofit I work with never heard about it...\n\nI feel that what is happening here is that circles are getting smaller and tighter.  If you depend on social media for your outreach, you will be reaching a self-reinforcing group of folks. More and more, if I attend an event promoted on social media, I see the same folks I saw at the last event.\n\nI am not shunning social media, but I do think that if marketers want to spread the word, they have to use many different channels to do so.\n\n<strong>Stumbling blocks</strong>\n\nLast week, I attended a talk by Guy Kawasaki, author of  <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">Enchantment</span>. He mentioned that when you put stumbling blocks between you and your customer or supporter, you are not being enchanting. And yet, I have visited dozens of blogs this week, with interesting posts that I would like to share on my social networks, and guess what, they make it hard to do. For instance \"Sexy Sharing\" (I think that is what is called) adds a second step when you click on one the sharing buttons (It asks whether you want to allow a third party to connect to your account...and I don\'t). That is not sexy, and it is a stumbling block. Similarly, some blogs do not have sharing or their sharing buttons don\'t work, making me do the work (use my own Hootsuite sharing button or use a URL shortener to cut and paste).  Or how many times are you asked to give information, create passwords, etc. just to get costs/estimates/speak to someone. Stumbling blocks turn people away, and hurt you in the end.\n\n<strong>Helplessness</strong>\n\nI belong to a listserv, the name and purpose of which I won\'t share here. What irks me about this listserv is that many times people ask questions to the listserv that could be found out by doing some research (AKA typing  a term into Google). To me, this is being helpless and dependent on others, and makes those people look bad (stupid).  Perhaps these people are trying to reach out and start a conversation, but sometimes you just have to wonder if they understand the power of the Internet.\n\nI admit, the above are some random thoughts. Your take on them is appreciated...that is why we have comments!','Thoughts on reaching out, stumbling blocks and helplessness','','publish','open','open','','thoughts-on-reaching-out-stumbling-blocks-and-helplessness','','','2011-06-03 06:42:42','2011-06-03 11:42:42','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1170',0,'post','',0),
(1174,4,'2011-06-09 09:07:54','2011-06-09 14:07:54','On Monday, I came across a letter to the editor in the Washington Post that made me nod my head vigorously. The author, David Klinger was writing about the Scripps Spelling Bee coverage, and I think you should read his letter:\n<div><article>I have written for a federal agency throughout a 34-year career. I had to pass a spelling test before graduating from the University of North Carolina’s journalism school. Yet I turn to the dictionary half a dozen times a day to check a word or reconfirm a spelling. That’s the nature of good, careful writing.</article><article></article><article></article><article></article><article></article><article></article>\n<div><article>Memorization of words like “thanatophidia” (which isn’t even in my Webster’s) or “bondieuserie”for the Scripps spelling bee is about as relevant to me — or to today’s generation of texters and youthful online denizens — as a buggy whip.</article><article></article><article></article><article>Scripps included, we desperately need to acquaint the next generation with a few, basic English grammar skills that seem to have disappeared amid society’s collective cyber-mania: complete sentences, subject-verb agreement, correct punctuation and that all-important axiom that “an apostrophe does not a plural make.”<strong> <strong></strong></strong></article><article></article><article><strong><strong>David Klinger,</strong> Martinsburg, W.Va.</strong></article><article></article><article></article><article></article><article></article></div>\n<article>Basic grammar skills are disappearing left and right.  I see the use of apostrophes to make plurals ALL the time. People just don\'t get it. However, to those in the know, using grammar poorly makes you look dumb. There is no other way to describe it. In marketing and PR, which are communications-based disciplines, writing well is key. It is key because if your grammar, spelling or sentence structure don\'t add up, you are probably not getting your thoughts through clearly.</article><article></article><article></article><article>Over on the Journalistics blog, Jessica Love writes <a href=\"http://blog.journalistics.com/2011/the-write-stuff-the-1-pr-skill/\" target=\"_blank\">\"The Write Stuff: Still the#1 PR Skill</a>.\"  Yes, it should be, but no, many PR practitioners don\'t have it. We can blame many things from a failing school system to an overreliance on short form messaging, but the responsibility to straighten out your writing skills lies with you.</article><article></article><article></article><article>Write well, or fail to communicate.</article></div>','Write well or fail ','','publish','open','open','','write-well-or-fail','','','2011-06-09 09:07:54','2011-06-09 14:07:54','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1174',0,'post','',0),
(1183,4,'2011-06-16 09:01:42','2011-06-16 14:01:42','<strong>UPDATE June 12, 2014: This post is three years old and some people are still finding it. If you read the post you will see that DBMC is not affiliated in any way with Clinique\'s Gone but Not Forgotten program. I am not able to help you get your discontinued makeup. Please contact Clinique directly.</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\nYou may recall that a couple of years ago I was trying <a title=\"Lack of communication may cost you a sale\" href=\"http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/2009/12/14/lack-of-communication-may-cost-you-a-sale/\" target=\"_blank\">to buy a foundation from Prescriptives</a>. It turns out Prescriptives had gone out of business, but I was able to order the makeup through their website. The failure was in communication--no real advertising of the closure and misinformation at the counter.\r\n\r\nWell, it has happened again. Clinique has discontinued my favorite mascara, without any notice. I went up to the counter, asked for the mascara by name, and was told they no longer carry it. That was it.  My friend and fellow WWPR board member <a href=\"http://twitter.com/#!/dfriez\" target=\"_blank\">Debbie Frie</a>z recommended calling the 1-800 number that the Estee Lauder cosmetics company has for discontinued items (you have to search really hard on the Clinique website for the \"Gone but  Not Forgotten program\").\r\n\r\nI called the Gone but not Forgotten program, and they said it could take up to two weeks to locate the product, and if they did, they would ship it out to me. After nearly two weeks, not a word. I called the program (and was on hold for 20 minutes) only to find out \"that I contacted them before they could contact me\" to tell me that the product is no longer available.\r\n\r\nWhat a massive failure from Clinique. First, they discontinued a product just so they could introduce a substitute that is not as good. Second, they failed to inform their customers.  And third, their program for discontinued items is a joke--why would it take two weeks to locate inventory? Why would you not email as soon as you knew you couldn\'t fulfill a customer\'s request? Perhaps you could give the customer a voucher to try another product for free, etc.\r\n\r\nWhy should I buy from Clinique ever again? Why would I buy a cosmetic that I like only to have it discontinued? Why would I want to deal with a company that disregards its customers? Clinique has effectively forced me into the marketplace to find another mascara that I like.\r\n\r\nA note to male readers: mascara is a product that should be replaced every three months. This made me visit the Clinique counter at least four times a year. And hey, if you are there four times a year, chances are good you will see something else you like.\r\n\r\nIn any case. the lessons here are as always: advertising alone will  not sell a product. Service will seal the deal. Personal experiences will also influence buying behavior, and in the social media world, may influence the behavior of other people too.\r\n\r\nSo, if you know of any good hypoallergenic, waterproof, non-flaking mascara, let me know. But please, make sure it is not a Clinique brand.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Another cosmetics failure','','private','open','open','','another-cosmetics-failure','','','2016-11-28 11:17:53','2016-11-28 16:17:53','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1183',0,'post','',2),
(1188,4,'2011-06-22 15:47:22','2011-06-22 20:47:22','It\'s been discussed to pieces but social media is just a channel for communicating with other people. It is not the be-all-end-all. Yes, it can be used for marketing (just like that ad you just saw on your way to work this morning) or to incite political action (as in Egypt) or to let people know when the next event is.\n\nRecently, I was at a women\'s business networking event  and we were told to discuss resources we recommend for new businesses, and our own goals and achievements.  When I talked about blogs (I write blog content for clients, among other things), many of the women started saying things like \"I am not on Twitter/Facebook, and I just don\'t get it.\" My response was this: well, you better learn because people are using these channels to communicate much the way you use the telephone or we used to use the fax or the telex even longer ago.\n\nSocial media has become the communication channel of choice for many people. Will people still use the phone? Yes. Will some use the fax? Maybe. Telex, no. In a few years, we will be communicating some other way (not on Twitter or Facebook).We will use what other people are using.\n\n<strong>Communicating on social media is just a phone conversation on steroids.</strong>\n\n<strong>It is about people speaking to other people.</strong> Yet, there are many people out there scheduling their tweets, and broadcasting irrelevant news and/or sales pitches. There are people who never attempt to learn anything about the PERSON at the other end of the avatar.  People who are too busy looking at their screens to interact with other people at an event. (As an aside, a few weeks ago I was at an event regarding social media, and one of the organizers never introduced herself to anyone and barely looked up from her laptop. And she is supposed to be a social media whiz.  Apparently, she knows how to use the tools of social media but not how to be social in real life with actual people.)\n\nLast week, I made a point of having coffee with someone I regularly chat with on Twitter: <a href=\"http://dkdnewmedia.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Diane Danielson </a>(founder of the <a href=\"http://www.downtownwomensclub.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Downtown Women\'s Club</a>). I had traveled up to Boston for my college reunion, and asked Diane if she would like to meet up. It was nice to be able to talk face-to-face, and make a more tangible connection.\n\n<strong>In my opinion, the real goal of social media or any other communication channel is to connect</strong>, whether it be to converse or  to exchange information or to perhaps to sell (products, ideas, services).\n\nSo, try to put the social back into social media by realizing you are using it as a way to communicate with other people.','Putting back the social in social media','','publish','open','open','','putting-back-the-social-in-social-media','','','2011-06-22 15:47:22','2011-06-22 20:47:22','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1188',0,'post','',0),
(1191,4,'2011-06-28 12:07:49','2011-06-28 17:07:49','Have you ever been jarred awake by the sound of a leaf blower? Not too pleasant is it? Leaf blowers are definitely high on the noise index, but low on the productivity scale. After all, what does a leaf blower do? It blows leaves around--it doesn\'t gather them, or suck them up, it just moves them from place to place.\n\nAs I was watching a gardener use his leaf-blower several times over a four-hour span, making noise and not accomplishing ANYTHING, it occurred to me that the people paying for his services were really wasting their money. First, he kept doing the same thing, over and over, without actually creating any change. Second, he <em>seemed</em> to be busy and not to be accomplishing much. Third, he was taking the easy way out, yet at more expense. The harder and cheaper way would be to use a rake and gather the leaves to then dispose of.  He was wasting resources (time, gas) and accomplishing little or nothing.\n\nSince this is not a gardening blog, you know where I am headed with this. Are you using a leaf-blower for your marketing efforts? Are you making lots of noise but not actually getting things done? Are you moving paper around but not actually getting to closing? Are you doing the same thing over and over with minimal or no results?\n\nJust like leaf blowers are annoying and pretty useless in gardens throughout the country, loud and untargeted marketing efforts are pointless exercises that create noise and don\'t communicate. Next time you launch a marketing campaign or create a marketing piece, ask yourself, is this at all like a leaf-blower or is it a rake? After all, rakes are useful, cheap and get the job done with minimal noise.\n\n&nbsp;','The problem with leaf blowers','','publish','open','open','','the-problem-with-leaf-blowers','','','2011-06-28 12:07:49','2011-06-28 17:07:49','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1191',0,'post','',0),
(1195,4,'2011-07-06 14:20:01','2011-07-06 19:20:01','You\'ve heard of (or perhaps eaten from) the food trucks? While it may be a fad, it is a huge trend right now, spawning its very own Cooking Channel show: <a href=\"http://www.cookingchanneltv.com/eat-street/index.html\" target=\"_blank\">Eat Street</a>. I admit, watching this show is a guilty pleasure for me. And, it seems, most of the really cool trucks are in places no where near me like Vancouver, Portland or San Francisco, making me really really want to visit!\n\nFood trucks are popular because of three main reasons:\n<ol>\n	<li>Mobility--bringing the food to you;</li>\n	<li>Accessibility:  making cutting edge food cheaper/more accessible</li>\n	<li>Specialization: they concentrate on one thing such as fried food, cheese, lobster, sauce, ethnic, etc.</li>\n</ol>\nThat last one is key--food trucks are specialists.  You know what they offer right off the bat. Perhaps you love Philipino food? There is a truck for that in San Francisco!  Grilled cheese your thing? Then head over to the grilled cheese truck in Los Angeles.\n\nI was watching Eat Street the other day and daydreaming about a visit to the Pacific Northwest to have fish and chips or great soup or something, when the show focused on a truck that made pockets (some people would call them empanadas). They make savory and sweet pockets. Great. And then, the truck owner says he also makes burgers. What??? Why? What do burgers have to do with pockets?\n\nPockets and burgers are not related. One does not add anything to the other.  In the competitive food truck business, you stand out by doing one thing really well.  People will go to your truck because you have great lobster or mac and cheese or tacos. Or because you have great Indian or Korean or Mexican.\n\nPick a specialty, get really good at it and don\'t dilute it. Don\'t be the pocket-burger truck.','What you can learn about marketing from food trucks','','publish','open','open','','what-you-can-learn-about-marketing-from-food-trucks','','','2011-07-06 14:20:01','2011-07-06 19:20:01','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1195',0,'post','',1),
(1200,4,'2011-07-11 09:09:29','2011-07-11 14:09:29','If you have been to any networking or social event, you have met this person: the person nobody likes.  Chances are good that this person has not one single solitary clue why nobody seems to be wanting to interact, exchange business cards, or just chat.\n\nHere\'s what to do if you want to be just like that person:\n<ul>\n	<li>Talk endlessly about yourself (and never ever ask the other person anything).</li>\n	<li>Use big words or obscure references, forcing whoever you are interacting to ask you what you mean.</li>\n	<li>Brag (I don\'t mean talk about your accomplishment, but actually brag, like this: Well, when I was on safari last year with Robert Redford, we ran into a pack of rare pink Rhinoceros...).</li>\n	<li>Don\'t maintain eye contact. People just love shifty-eyed people--gives them a vote of confidence.</li>\n	<li>Have a clammy or limp handshake (or worse, a clammy AND limp handshake).</li>\n	<li>Shift the burden of conversation to the other person.</li>\n	<li>Denigrate whatever the other person is saying (\"Oh, you think that is a big deal? I got a bigger deal!)</li>\n	<li>Live in the past or in another place: you know, things were much better then and there.</li>\n	<li>Speak ill of the host, venue, group, etc. I don\'t mean constructive criticism like \"I thought the parking was a bit difficult here,\" but something like \"Jane Doe and her group just don\'t have a clue! \"</li>\n	<li>Have poor hygiene or grooming.</li>\n</ul>\nUnfortunately, the first impression you make is usually a lasting one. However, you can also not try to so hard to be likeable, people see through that too.  You have to be who you are, but be aware that what you say and do do affect how other people perceive you.\n\nNext, we\'ll talk about how this personal behavior is often seen in marketing communications (and especially in social media).','How to make sure nobody likes you','','publish','open','open','','how-to-make-sure-nobody-likes-you','','','2011-07-11 09:09:29','2011-07-11 14:09:29','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1200',0,'post','',1),
(1205,4,'2011-07-12 09:25:39','2011-07-12 14:25:39','Yesterday, I talked about how you can make sure people dislike you. It\'s not hard--all  you have to do is be self-centered and creepy. Well, how about making your company on of the most hated companies in America? That is a new level of dislike, and Pepco has reached it.\n\nThe article about this \"honor\" in WTOP (B<a href=\"http://www.wtop.com/?nid=41&amp;sid=2453857\" target=\"_blank\">erzerk customers make Pepco \'most hated\' in U.S</a>.) tells us that the power company has had a drop in customer satisfaction since last year, due in part to:\n<blockquote>frequent and wide-ranging outages made worse by belated customer service response... Pepco has had <a href=\"http://www.wtop.com/?nid=41&amp;sid=2409093\">reliability problems in the past</a>, but not as serious as the last year when its customers faced 70% more power outages than households in other metropolitan areas, along with outages lasting twice as long on average.</blockquote>\nWhat is most interesting to me is how Pepco responded to this \"accolade\" reported in the website Business Insider. Here is what the article said\n<blockquote>Pepco initially issued a statement questioning the validity of the Business Insider rankings, which it said could have been to drive up their readership.\n\nIt later retracted this statement, released another written statement in response to the survey. Pepco spokespeople declined to answer specific questions.\n\n\"While we certainly believe that this label is over the top, we have heard our customers loud and clear and are working hard to upgrade our system,\" the second statement said.</blockquote>\nPepco\'s communication department certainly does not get it.  You don\'t get rid of something by attacking the source (unless it was some muck-raking tabloid). The lesson here is that Pepco is in denial about how it is perceived by its customers. As a company, it believes that if it says that it is fixing things, people should just accept it.\n\nTo become the most hated company you have to provide bad service, first and foremost. But you compound this by:\n<ul>\n	<li>Thinking your customers are stupid or ignorant (r<a title=\"Want to improve your marketing? Start with your customer service.\" href=\"http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/2010/12/03/want-to-improve-your-marketing-start-with-your-customer-service/\">ead about Pepco\'s misguided ad campaign</a> for instance)</li>\n</ul>\n<ul>\n	<li>Denying that serious problems exist</li>\n	<li>Not doing enough to address those problems, or just giving lip-service to fixing said issues.</li>\n	<li>If criticized, pointing fingers at the source of criticism rather than dealing with the substance.</li>\n</ul>\nI tweeted out the WTOP article yesterday, and @pepcoconnect tweeted back: Working to get it right (with a link to this: <a href=\"http://pepcoconnect.wordpress.com/2011/07/11/working-to-get-it-right/\" target=\"_blank\">http://pepcoconnect.wordpress.com/2011/07/11/working-to-get-it-right/</a> ) And if that is true, why on Friday night, did I lose power for one and half hours, for no apparent reason?','How to become the most hated company','','publish','open','open','','how-to-become-the-most-hated-company','','','2011-07-12 09:25:39','2011-07-12 14:25:39','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1205',0,'post','',2),
(1210,4,'2011-07-13 09:26:58','2011-07-13 14:26:58','It is the marketing kiss of death when people actively start disliking your company. People like to do business with people (and companies) they like. Except where there is monopoly--like with the power company or the phone or cable company--then people are forced to do business with companies they do not like very much.\n\nYesterday, Netflix became a very disliked company. In an email to subscribers (which again hit A<a title=\"Inform your customers first\" href=\"http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/2010/11/23/inform-your-customers-first/\" target=\"_blank\">FTER the press release</a> hit the blogosphere), Netflix raised its prices for the second time in less than one year. The company, which was offering people a plan that allowed one DVD at a time (unlimited in a month) and unlimited streaming for $9.99 (raised from $8.99 last December), is now offering this combination for $15.99 OR you can get the DVD option only for $7.99 or the streaming option only for $7.99. You can read it Netflix own words here:  <a href=\"http://blog.netflix.com/2011/07/netflix-introduces-new-plans-and.html\" target=\"_blank\">http://blog.netflix.com/2011/07/netflix-introduces-new-plans-and.html</a>\n\nNeedless to say, a price hike of this magnitude was not greeted with open arms by Netflix subscribers. Just check out the more than 6,000 comments on the blog (link above), or these stories from <a href=\"http://www.usatoday.com/tech/news/2011-07-13-netflix-customers-angry_n.htm\" target=\"_blank\">USA Today</a> and the <a href=\"http://www.nypost.com/p/news/business/netflix_price_hike_causes_drama_4f7RYbrvch2JMNkrrszjKO\" target=\"_blank\">New York Post.</a>\n\nOn Twitter, many people are expressing their dislike for this price hike and threatening to cancel their subscription altogether.\n\nNetflix is pretty disliked right now. But what really is driving the discontent?\n\n1. <strong>Raising rates without offering more.</strong> In effect,  most people are complaining because Netflix\' streaming option does not offer the equivalent value of the DVD option (i.e. you can\'t get everything on streaming that you can get on DVD).\n\n2. <strong>Thinking your customers will grin and bear it</strong>. Yes, it probably will help to raise revenue....if you keep your current base! The result here is that customers will find other options better suited to the value they perceive the service should be worth.\n\n3. <strong>Underestimating the power of social media</strong>. With Twitter and Facebook one person\'s discontent spreads like wildfire.\n\n4. U<strong>nderestimating your customer\'s intelligence</strong>. The email from Netflix about the price hike says this:\n<blockquote>We are separating unlimited DVDs by mail and unlimited streaming into two separate plans to better reflect the costs of each. Now our members have a choice: a streaming only plan, a DVD only plan, or both.\n\n&nbsp;</blockquote>\nThis presumes customers want a choice or that they don\'t like the choice they have or that if you put it as a choice then people will accept it.\n\nCompanies that treat their customers like revenue sources and not like people who actually do have a choice in which companies they do business with, risk losing business.  Netflix will probably survive this episode, but not without a lot of bad blood and bad publicity.','More ways to make people dislike your company','','publish','open','open','','more-ways-to-make-people-dislike-your-company','','','2011-07-13 09:26:58','2011-07-13 14:26:58','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1210',0,'post','',0),
(1214,4,'2011-07-18 14:39:39','2011-07-18 19:39:39','Check out my guest blog post at the Downtown Women\'s Club blog: <a href=\"http://www.downtownwomensclub.com/2011/07/5-ways-to-get-more-readers-to-your-blog-by-deborah-brody/\" target=\"_blank\">5 ways to get more readers to your blog.</a> Hint: it has to do with being consistent and getting the word out. Special thanks to Diane Danielson for giving me the opportunity!\n\nOn social media and blogs, we are all trying to get more readers and more followers. If we are in business or marketing, we are also trying to convert some followers/readers/likers into customers. Right?\n\nLately, I have been cleaning up Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook. Basically, I have been reducing the numbers of people that I follow or am connected to. Let me tell you why.\n\nIt\'s personal\n\nOn Facebook, which I consider a personal network, I have been \"unfriending\" anyone that I don\'t know very well, or only know through business encounters. I tend to share my personal views and activities and really, would rather have fewer \"friends\" on Facebook than thousands of people with insight into my personal life.\n\nIt\'s business\n\nOn LinkedIn, I have removed a few connections because I just don\'t know enough about them. LinkedIn is a business network, and when you connect with someone, you have access to his/her connections. I want to be more careful with this network and not give away my hard-earned connections to people who are just trying to expand their own networks with little regard for what I do.\n\nIt\'s common sense\n\nI have been unfollowing lots of people on Twitter lately. Why? Because there is only so much time in the day, and there are so many tweets that I want to make sure to follow folks who are offering stuff that is relevant and/or interesting. I am on Twitter to share and to learn, but I don\'t need to learn about what you did at the gym or whether your cat is at the vet. On Twitter, I definitely stopped following anybody who:\n<ul>\n	<li>Self promotes endlessly</li>\n	<li>Uses crass expressions/language ALWAYS</li>\n	<li>Doesn\'t ever share anything valuable (as defined by me)</li>\n	<li>Seems to be in a quest to get the most tweets per day ever</li>\n	<li>Who never ever interacts with me or re-tweets or even acknowledges my re-tweets (unless the person in question is a journalist/politician/world leader)</li>\n</ul>\nSo yes, we are all trying to get more followers and to do that, you need to be aware of what gets you unfollowed.\n\nYour thoughts?\n\n&nbsp;','Getting more readers and getting unfollowed','','publish','open','open','','getting-more-readers-and-getting-unfollowed','','','2011-07-18 14:39:39','2011-07-18 19:39:39','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1214',0,'post','',0),
(1218,4,'2011-07-20 07:53:11','2011-07-20 12:53:11','Some people think that books, magazines and newspapers are dead.  Borders, the bookstore chain recently in bankruptcy, is closing down all its stores. If you walk into a Barnes and Noble, the display for the Nook (their e-reader), has taken over the entrance. All around it <em>seems</em> that <em>everybody</em> is using tablets and e-readers to read books and magazine and that <em>nobody</em> is reading the printed on paper stuff anymore. But, that would be wrong.\n\nDid you know that only <a href=\"http://pewresearch.org/databank/dailynumber/?NumberID=1275\" target=\"_blank\">12% of U.S. adults own an e-reader</a> (like a Kindle, Nook, etc.)? Or that<a href=\"http://pewresearch.org/pubs/2054/smartphone-ownership-demographics-iphone-blackberry-android\" target=\"_blank\"> 35% of U.S. adults own a smart phon</a>e (Iphone, Blackberry, etc.)? Given how the media reports things, and if you are surrounded by folks who are early adopters, then you could be excused for thinking the number was much much higher--like 99%.\n\nThe truth is that not everybody is on the smart phone/e-reader/all-computer-all-the-time bandwagon. The numbers above mean that nearly two thirds of adults in the US do NOT use a smart phone, and nearly 90% do not have an e-reader. This indicates to me that many many people out there are still consuming media in more \"traditional\" ways--like in a printed  format. Or perhaps are relying on television and radio.\n\nIt is a wrong (and dangerous) assumption to think that \"everybody is doing it.\" They are not. Unless it is breathing, not ever human being out there is doing (or thinking) the same thing as you are.\n\nLast week, I attended a presentation purportedly about YouTube. In effect, it was about stuff you could do if you wanted to get together a video to promote your company (it was not a very in-depth or insightful presentation). One thing that the presenter asked was whether people in the room knew what QR codes are. I turned to a colleague sitting beside me and asked \"who doesn\'t?\" It turns out that most in the room (all communicators I may add) had no idea. Because I know what a QR code is (a quick response code that has become ubiquitous on print ads everywhere, and which when scanned takes you to a website), and I see them everywhere, I assumed everyone else did too. Clearly, I was wrong.\n\n<strong>You can\'t assume that everybody knows something. In communications, making assumptions can be detrimental to making your message clear.</strong>\n\nAnd yet, people using the above-mentioned QR codes in their ads are assuming that people know what they are! And also, they are assuming that people have a smart phone that they will use to scan the QR code. But if we go with the fact that 35% of people have a smart phone, and from my unscientific survey, even fewer know what a QR code is, then you are probably reaching somewhere south of 30% of people by using those codes. Think about that.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Doesn\'t everybody?','','publish','open','open','','doesnt-everybody','','','2011-07-20 07:53:11','2011-07-20 12:53:11','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1218',0,'post','',0),
(1220,4,'2011-07-25 09:50:09','2011-07-25 14:50:09','Sarah Palin may be forgiven for thinking that many people in the U.S. agree with her viewpoints--after all, she gets confirmation all the time from her Facebook fans.  Last week, <a href=\"http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0711/59732.html\" target=\"_blank\">Politico reporte</a>d that Palin posted a criticism of President Obama on her Facebook page. If you check out the entry, you will note that there are dozens of supporting comments and more than 19,000 people liked her words.\n\nYou could also be excused for thinking that Sarah Palin has lots of support. But you would be wrong. What she has is support among her supporters--that is, she is preaching to the choir. She is not going to get push back from people  on Facebook, because after all, they (presumably) have indicated that they \"like\" her. Sure, there are probably several people in there who \"liked\" her to follow her moves, but overall, these are her fans, her base, her <strong>echo chamber</strong>.\n\nPoliticians--and marketers--need to be careful that they aren\'t getting to overenthusiastic about the echoes they are hearing. <strong>Your supporters will mostly always like you and agree with you. But if you are always listening to those who like you, you will be unaware of why those other people out there don\'t.</strong>\n\nSocial media, especially the concept of Facebook pages, is the very definition of an echo chamber. You are sharing content with those who are already predisposed to liking what you say and do.  Same thing happens with your Twitter stream--you have chosen to follow and be followed by certain people. If someone in your Twitter stream annoys you or doesn\'t agree with you, you can block him/her.\n\nI am not saying that brands should not have Facebook pages, or that you should not select your Twitter stream. What I am saying is that you have to be aware that you may be speaking in an echo chamber--hearing back what you want to hear.\n\nWhat do you think? Do you find yourself in an echo chamber?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Beware the social media echo chamber','','publish','open','open','','beware-the-social-media-echo-chamber','','','2011-07-25 09:50:09','2011-07-25 14:50:09','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1220',0,'post','',0),
(1222,4,'2011-07-27 07:23:06','2011-07-27 12:23:06','This morning on Yahoo.com there was an <a href=\"http://shine.yahoo.com/event/poweryourfuture/5-habits-holding-you-back-and-how-to-change-them-2515577/\" target=\"_blank\">article about habits </a>that can hold you back, which got me thinking about the things people do, perhaps unconsciously, perhaps subconsciously, that affect how they are perceived by others and that hold them back career-wise.  Some of these habits are particular pet peeves of mine, which certainly have changed the way I perceive someone.\n\n<strong>Not answering direct emails</strong>: It makes it seem as though you don\'t care enough about the sender to answer. If you work at an agency or for yourself, it is an absolute disaster not to answer client\'s emails. If you are a client, and you don\'t answer your email, you are making it very hard for the agency/representative to do its job on your behalf.\n\n<strong>Not saying thank you:</strong> I have <a title=\"How to leave a bad impression\" href=\"http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/2011/03/24/how-to-leave-a-bad-impression/\" target=\"_blank\">written about this</a> before, but when someone does something for you just say thanks! A few months ago, I took out a couple hours of my day to meet with some people who were looking for advice. I did my best to listen and give suggestions. To this day, I have not received a solitary note of thanks. It makes me think that neither my time nor my input were in anyway valuable to them.\n\n<strong>Not doing what you promised:</strong>  If you say you are going to get something by the end of the day, or that you will take on a project and then not do it, you are failing to keep your promises. This makes you seem unreliable, and uncaring. Last year, while working on a group project, one of the group members offered to complete a good chunk of the project. She never did. And she didn\'t provide a reason, an excuse or even any further words about it. I would never work with her again. And I made sure that other people knew she dropped the ball.\n\n<strong>Being habitually late:</strong> The article on Yahoo (link above) says this is a surefire sign of something going on...you resent having your time held hostage to someone else\'s schedule. To me, it shows a deep disrespect and makes me perceive you as unreliable.  Enough said.\n\n<strong>Never following up</strong>: This is a mistake that happens frequently. In the past few weeks, I have been getting estimates to get a fence built. So far, I have received four estimates. Guess how many follow up calls I have had to see if I am interested in moving ahead? None. Not one call. And you wonder why people don\'t get business...they don\'t even try to get it.\n\n<strong>Not remembering/always forgetting:</strong>  This is a catch-all, but it covers things such as always forgetting you have met someone before, forgetting to do something, not remembering names, not remembering crucial details, etc.  If you have a bad memory, get an aid of some sort like a calendar or a smart phone.\n\nThe thing is some of these may just be annoyances and people will overlook them. But do some of them enough and it will affect how you are perceived. The flip side is that these are easy to fix and if you are aware that you are doing them you can change your ways. Have you recently lost a client? Did any of these play a part? Have you been overlooked for a job or a promotion? Are any of these habits yours?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Bad habits or perception busters?','','publish','open','open','','bad-habits-or-perception-busters','','','2011-07-27 07:23:06','2011-07-27 12:23:06','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1222',0,'post','',0),
(1225,4,'2011-07-28 09:36:47','2011-07-28 14:36:47','You may not be able to (entirely) judge a book by its cover (or so they say) but you may be able to judge a business by its website.\n\nLet\'s start with the very basic question of does the business have a website? If the answer is no, that says a lot. Among other things, not having a website says that a business doesn\'t get how people search for information nowadays, or that it works strictly off referrals and very traditional advertising or that it is not tech-savvy.\n\nHowever, most businesses do have a website. Some websites are better than others, and that often has to do with the budget allocated to it and also whether it is being handled by a communications person or a tech person (yeah...the communications person should handle this unless you want the website to speak IT).\n\nA website is a necessary part of any marketing/communications strategy.  Keeping that in mind, this is what  should you look for:\n\n<strong>Appearance and design</strong>: Does the website look good? Is it easy to read? If so, it shows this business has considered that potential customers\' perceptions are important.  Also, if it looks like it was designed in the 1990s, it shows that the business has not bothered to keep up with the times.\n\n<strong>Clarity:</strong> What does this business do? It should be crystal clear by looking at the home page what kind of service or product the business offers.\n\n<strong>About us page:</strong> Does this page provide you the information you need to consider doing business with this company? Or is it a lot of fluff and platitudes, short on substance?\n\n<strong>Services or product listing:</strong> Does the website specifically list what services or products this business provides? How deep do you have to dig for this information?\n\n<strong>Contact page:</strong> Does the business provide several ways to contact it? Businesses that don\'t provide a physical address and/or phone number and/or email are suspicious. They want to be able to contact you but not for your to contact or find them.\n\n<strong>Freshness:</strong> What is the copyright on the website? When was this content updated and is it really up-to-date? If there is a blog, when was the last blog entry dated? Clearly, if a website lacks freshness, you have no way of knowing if the business still exists or in what form. For instance, if this is a restaurant website, and the menu is date Spring 2008, how do you know if they are still open for business?\n\n<strong>Useful information:</strong>  You need certain information to decide whether you want to contact a business or not: Does it work with your industry? Are there fees? What are the opening hours? Does this website give you the necessary information you need? For example, you are looking at a hotel website and you have a list of needs (location, availability of WiFi, restaurant on premises)--does the website provide you with the answers you need? In a hotel\'s case, does it list of room amenities and hotel services?\n\n<strong>Easy to navigate:</strong> Is the website easy to use? Do you have to dig deep to get crucial information? If a website is not easy to use or navigate, it shows that the business does not understand what information its potential clients and customers need.  Sometimes, it is a business decision to bury information on purpose (and this tells you a whole lot!)\n\nYou can read <a href=\"http://www.openforum.com/articles/5-simple-tips-for-better-business-websites?extlink=sm-openforum-tw\" target=\"_blank\">5 Simple Tips for Better Business Websites </a>on OpenForum.com to see some more technical issues (like making sure a website is mobile friendly).\nWhat would you add to the list?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','How to judge a business by its website','','publish','open','open','','how-to-judge-a-business-by-its-website','','','2011-07-28 09:36:47','2011-07-28 14:36:47','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1225',0,'post','',2),
(1231,4,'2011-08-01 09:25:18','2011-08-01 14:25:18','Here\'s something to think about: you can start marketing <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">too early</span>. Sometimes, you  aren\'t ready for prime time, as they say.\n\nLast week, I attended a networking event. There, I met two self-employed event planners. They were both very pleasant and seemed knowledgeable about the ins and outs of event planning. Both gave me their business cards. As I always do when I get back from this type of event, I went to their websites. At least, I tried to go to their websites.  Neither website was up--one was \"under construction\" and the other was a placeholder from the domain registrar. Although both ladies had nice (professionally designed and printed) cards, they skipped a step. You should always have your website up before you hand out cards with the URL--even if it is a one page describing your business and providing contact info.\n\nLater on in the evening, I met two women who are planning to open a yoga studio. They did not have cards, and they told me their website was under construction. For the life of me, I can\'t remember the name of the studio. One of the yogis told me they are considering doing a Groupon...the week they open. I told her that that I would not advise that since she wouldn\'t even have worked out any kinks.\n\nHere is an article from USA Today about Groupon (<a href=\"http://www.usatoday.com/money/smallbusiness/columnist/strauss/2011-07-31-should-entrepreneurs-use-groupon_n.htm?csp=34money&amp;utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+UsatodaycomMoney-TopStories+%28Money+-+Top+Stories%29&amp;utm_content=Google+Reader\" target=\"_blank\">Is Groupon a great idea for entrepreneurs?)</a>  Among the cons of using Groupon is that if you are not ready for the onslaught of business, you will end up turning away customers. Say the yogis get 40 people signed up, but the studio only holds 30, or their computer system has a bug and can\'t register new customers? Then those potential customers are going to be disappointed and chances are, won\'t be coming back (there are plenty of other yoga studios in the area).\n\nThe bottom line is that before you start any type of marketing, whether it be in-person networking or a traditional advertising/media campaign, you need to be ready for business. This means having your website up and running and all your business tools in order (e.g. invoicing, computer systems, ordering, etc.) People have limited time and resources and they will often not give you a second chance.  Or they will forget about you. Or they will think you are an amateur.\n\nNot only should you be ready for prime time before you start marketing, you should be ready for business.','Are you ready for prime time?','','publish','open','open','','are-you-ready-for-prime-time','','','2011-08-01 09:25:18','2011-08-01 14:25:18','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1231',0,'post','',1),
(1321,4,'2011-08-04 11:00:09','2011-08-04 16:00:09','Be warned: this is a rant.\n\nLately, I have been getting followed and unfollowed on Twitter by a guy who has a networking group here in DC.  He happens to have many Twitter handles (and a surprising number of followers).  He has used at least five different handles to follow me, and then, I take it because I haven\'t followed back, he unfollows me. Is this a good way to get me to follow him? NO!!!\n\nSay this interaction was taking place on the phone instead of on Twitter. It would go like this:  He would call from his cell phone, and hang up once I answered. Then he would call from his office line, and hang up again. And so forth. This would be very annoying, and bordering on perverted behavior (if there were any heavy breathing involved).\n\nIf he actually wanted to talk to me, he might call and say \"Hello, I really think you have some great ideas to share, and I would like to talk to you some more.\"  But apparently, he is either unaware of how to behave like a human, or is just interested in numbers.\n\nThere is no great mystery to getting Twitter followers: it is simply about behaving courteously and human. That is, showing interest, re-tweeting content to show support and giving credit, and INTERACTING.\n\nWhy do so many people forget they are dealing with other people on the Internet? You would not walk into a store and yell obscenities, for instance.  And yet people do this on Twitter as a matter of course.\n\nA computer is just a tool. It need humans to run it.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Just because its on the computer doesn\'t mean you can\'t act human','','publish','open','open','','just-because-its-on-the-computer-doesnt-mean-you-cant-act-human','','','2011-08-04 11:00:09','2011-08-04 16:00:09','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1236',0,'post','',2),
(1322,4,'2011-08-09 11:11:22','2011-08-09 16:11:22','I just came back from a quick trip out to Assateague/Chincoteague Islands. As is the case in any tourist/vacation town, everywhere you went there were rows of brochures about things to do: kayaking, boat tours, bike rentals, etc. Those are all good to have. In fact, I ended up going on a boat trip because I  picked up a brochure for it.\n\nOn Sunday, I was at the visitor center on Assateague. They have lots of exhibits about the area, its history and its flora and fauna. You could pretty much wander around the building looking at exhibits and picking up brochures.  However, you would have probably not really noticed or paid attention to the fact that nature bus tours leave from the center.\n\nWhile talking to the woman at the information desk about trails and things to do on Assateague, she recommended taking the bus tour. She said that you would see the famous Chincoteague ponies, guaranteed, and also lots of other animals native to the area. You would be sitting in air conditioned bus going where nobody else is allowed to drive. In other words, she sold the tour. (BTW, we did see the ponies and a bald eagle, along with tons of egrets, ibis, osprey, and other animals, just like she said)\n\nIf she hadn\'t given the pitch for the tour, it would have not been on my agenda or even on my radar. A posting about the tour or a brochure alone would not have been sufficient. A knowledgeable salesperson made the difference.\n\nWhen you can\'t have a salesperson, you need marketing materials. But marketing materials should never replace salespeople completely.','Marketing materials don\'t replace salespeople','','publish','open','open','','marketing-materials-dont-replace-salespeople','','','2011-08-09 11:11:22','2011-08-09 16:11:22','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1240',0,'post','',0),
(1417,4,'2011-08-29 15:23:28','2011-08-29 15:23:28','If you need to do anything when preparing any type of communications (printed, online, even spoken), you need to get your facts straight.\r\n\r\nSeems fairly obvious, but as usual, it escapes many.\r\n\r\nLet me give you an example. Last week I received a check from a foreign bank, drawn from a U.S. dollar account. I have received these before (I do have clients in other countries). I went to Bank of America to deposit it. I was told that it would take up to four months to clear. FOUR months. (This was after lots of back and forth with a clueless teller and her remarkably unfriendly supervisor). I told them time and again that this was a US DOLLAR check--no exchange rate necessary.  It didn\'t matter--they thought they had their facts straight, and did not leave me any option but to take the check elsewhere.\r\n\r\nI went to my other bank. They were MUCH friendlier there, and seemed to understand what I was saying. They went ahead and deposited the check, warning that it would take up to six weeks to clear.  And that I would be charged a fee. Because of the exchange rate. But, I said, this is a check drawn in US DOLLARS.  There should be no exchange of any sort. Bottom line, the check cleared immediately. I have not yet been charged a fee. Seems like the bank teller and her supervisor at the second bank did not have their facts straight.\r\n\r\nYou have to know what you are talking about plain and simple. Sure you can make mistakes or have to ask someone if you don\'t know, but it is inexcusable to give customers/potential customers the wrong information.\r\n\r\nGet your facts straight before you put anything out there!','Getting your facts straight','','publish','open','open','','getting-your-facts-straight','','','2011-08-29 15:23:28','2011-08-29 15:23:28','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/?p=1417',0,'post','',0),
(1361,4,'2009-10-16 07:53:28','2009-10-16 12:53:28','Organizations that deal with the public typically have one or more frontline people. These people deal directly with the public, perhaps by giving directions, meeting and greeting or assisting in some way. Many times, these frontline people are also some of the least well compensated in the organization. But they are crucial in shaping how the public perceives the organization.\n\n[picapp src=\"b/0/0/7/Online_Shoppers_Continue_e229.jpg?adImageId=5802925&amp;imageId=2370520\" width=\"380\" height=\"253\" /]\n\nHave you ever walked into an office where the receptionist didn\'t even bother to greet you? Have you stood waiting for help at a \"customer service\" booth? Then you know that your interaction with people that are supposed to assist you can color how you perceive the organization that they represent.  However, many organizations don\'t seem to grasp this simple concept and continue to deploy people in \"helping\" positions that are unwilling or unable to help, therefore damaging the credibility and perception of the organization.\n\n<strong>Here\'s a tip: if you are hiring someone to help you to deal with the public make sure that persons LIKES helping people. </strong>\n\nOn my last trip, I had trouble checking in on the kiosk. So, a very unhelpful, surly guy came over, growled at me and told me to go wait in line. He was absolutely rude and unpleasant. Do you think that makes me feel positive toward the airline in question?\n\nYesterday, I was in downtown DC to meet with a client. She had her laptop with her and we needed to go somewhere with WiFi. I couldn\'t think where the nearest Cosi was, but DC has deployed Downtown DC people in the Gallery Place area. I went up a woman with the Downtown DC jacket and asked her if she knew where the nearest Cosi was. She did. She gave us specific, perfect directions. She was helpful (and right). Contrast that with an exchange I had witnessed earlier inside a Metro station. A gentleman had approached the booth to ask a question, and the  lady in the booth was BERATING him for tapping on her window. Does that make Metro look helpful? (BTW, I have had similar experiences with people in the booths...they just don\'t want to be bothered to do their jobs, that is, assisting people.)\n\nAs a marketing consultant, I can advise you to take a good look at who is dealing with public in your organization. These people are crucial because they create the first (and maybe the only) impression the public will have of your organization.','Who is helping you to help others?','','inherit','open','open','','522-revision','','','2009-10-16 07:53:28','2009-10-16 12:53:28','',522,'http://deborahbrody.com/2009/10/522-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1359,4,'2009-10-27 08:14:49','2009-10-27 13:14:49','Newspapers are in decline. It\'s a fact.\n\nThis is the first paragraph from a <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Newspapers\" href=\"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/10/26/AR2009102603272.html?wprss=rss_business\" target=\"_blank\">Washington Post article entitled \"The accelerating decline of newspapers by Frank Ahrens</a>:\n<blockquote>\"U.S. newspaper circulation has hit its lowest level in seven decades, as papers across the country lost 10.6 percent of their paying readers from April through September, compared with a year earlier.\"</blockquote>\nThe numbers were released by the Audit Bureau of Circulation (ABC), which measures circulation for print media across the United States.  Some interesting (and sad)  facts from the study:\n<ul>\n	<li>30.4 million Americans buy daily newspapers, 40 million on Sundays</li>\n	<li>Daily circulation has been declining since 1987</li>\n	<li>In 1940, 31 percent of Americans bought a newspaper. Today, it is 13%.</li>\n	<li>The top five newspapers are:  Wall Street Journal, USA Today, New York Times, Los Angeles Times and The Washington Post (all except the Journal have lost readers)</li>\n	<li>USA Today suffered the highest reader loss, declining by 17.2%, due in part to a decline in the travel industry</li>\n</ul>\n[picapp src=\"f/c/7/8/Decline_In_Daily_0b46.jpg?adImageId=6830326&amp;imageId=6916279\" width=\"234\" height=\"156\" /]\n\nAs fewer people buy print newspapers, fewer advertisers will pay fewer dollars for the chance to display their ads therein. What will happen to the industry? More cuts and less paper, that is for sure. The New York Times recently announced another round of layoffs from its newsroom. The Washington Post is desperate to reinvent itself and recently went through a complete redesign.\n\nIs there a solution? Your thoughts?\n\n','Numbers don\'t lie','','inherit','open','open','','536-revision','','','2009-10-27 08:14:49','2009-10-27 13:14:49','',536,'http://deborahbrody.com/2009/10/536-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1352,4,'2009-12-11 08:09:08','2009-12-11 13:09:08','What does it say about the publishing industry when the venerable, 108-year-old trade journal covering the industry is folding?Read the story <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Crains NY Biz\" href=\"http://www.crainsnewyork.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20091210/FREE/912109995/1040\" target=\"_blank\">here.</a>\n\nIt seems inevitable that we will see continued downturn in the magazine market. More and more, people are turning to digital media for all their news and information. And why not? It is there, at your fingertips. It is continually updated and often, you don\'t have to pay for it.\n\nMagazines are starting to seem as quaint as LPs (vinyl records for those who don\'t remember).\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=sad+face&amp;iid=5265478\" src=\"c/8/7/8/Closeup_of_an_a881.jpg?adImageId=8202748&amp;imageId=5265478\" width=\"234\" height=\"352\" /]\n\n','Editor & Publisher to shut down','','inherit','open','open','','586-revision','','','2009-12-11 08:09:08','2009-12-11 13:09:08','',586,'http://deborahbrody.com/2009/12/586-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1350,4,'2010-01-06 10:44:56','2010-01-06 15:44:56','We all have gone to see a movie that our best friend raved about only to find we thought it was just OK.  Same happens with restaurants that receive glowing reviews. What happens is that our expectations have been set too high and naturally, we are disappointed with reality.\n\nIt\'s a like a present that is wrapped beautifully....what will be inside? Will it be better than its wrapping?\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=expectation&amp;iid=7282168\" src=\"0/a/9/d/Closeup_of_a_71b6.jpg?adImageId=8820179&amp;imageId=7282168\" width=\"234\" height=\"155\" /]\n\nBuzz is about forming expectations and then exploiting them.  Marketing people love buzz or WOM (word-of-mouth) because few things are as powerful as a recommendation from someone we know.\n\nThe down side of creating high expectations is having to deliver or even over-deliver on such expectations.  We can have stuff go very wrong when things don\'t live up to expectations.\n\nLately, I have been paying attention to hotel websites and ratings. Usually, there is a picture of a perfect room. We don\'t see anything wrong.  But what happens if we book this room, and show up at the hotel only to find that the bathroom is filthy, the carpets (which did not show up in the room picture) are grimy and the noise level is unbearable. What happens is that we are very unhappy. But what makes it worse is that we <em>expected </em>better.\n\nClearly there is a fine line to walk for marketing people. We have to create expectations  and we have to be able to meet them in a reasonable way.\n\nTastes differ of course, so what I absolutely love, you may hate. Humans are more forgiving of taste not being met, but with service and other issues that are quantifiable we are not so forgiving. For instance, I went to a restaurant with a friend. We both order the same thing, and I like it but she doesn\'t. Taste  is at play (she prefers less spicy). However, we can both agree on the service (good), ambience (lovely), parking (difficult).\n\nMarketing that succeeds creates high enough expectations to attract a customer without creating a situation that the customer may actually be upset. The latter happens a lot with sales. Stores run a sale, drawing customers expecting to get a great price on an item they really want. Expectations are not met and tempers are raised if the item is out of stock or is not as it appeared.\n\nWhat do you do to create reasonable expectations? How do you navigate this  line?\n\n','Expectations','','inherit','open','open','','602-revision','','','2010-01-06 10:44:56','2010-01-06 15:44:56','',602,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/01/602-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1348,4,'2010-01-11 15:31:04','2010-01-11 20:31:04','Although I am not a fan of New Year\'s resolutions, I think January is a great time to set goals for oneself. You have a whole year ahead of you to meet those goals. And goals are tangible. You either meet them or not, whereas resolutions like \"I want to be healthier\" are vague.\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=new+year%27s+resolutions&amp;iid=217929\" src=\"0214/e9341312-9a21-4e7a-88f5-1106ee9ade4d.jpg?adImageId=8928348&amp;imageId=217929\" width=\"234\" height=\"209\" /]\n\nHere are some personal marketing goals:\n<ul>\n	<li>Upload a headshot to LinkedIn</li>\n	<li>Answer at least one question a month on LinkedIn</li>\n	<li>Refine your LinkedIn headline</li>\n	<li>Increase your LinkedIn contacts by 25% (minimum)</li>\n	<li>Get business cards if you don\'t have them</li>\n	<li>Update and polish your elevator speech and then practice it!</li>\n	<li>Attend networking events at least twice a month</li>\n	<li>Join a professional association</li>\n	<li>Join a committee or volunteer group</li>\n	<li>Start a blog if you don\'t have one (Posterous is easy!) or post regularly on your existing blog</li>\n</ul>\nWhat goals are you setting for yourself?\n\n','Personal marketing goals for 2010','','inherit','open','open','','610-revision','','','2010-01-11 15:31:04','2010-01-11 20:31:04','',610,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/01/610-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1347,4,'2010-01-14 08:00:22','2010-01-14 13:00:22','There are followers and lists and getting many of each seems to be the focus for many people on Twitter.  Some people make pleas for more followers and then there is \"Follow Friday\" in which people recommend to their followers other people to follow.\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=high+school&amp;iid=210464\" src=\"0206/625fd0f7-ca7e-48b0-88a8-0b09566b4912.jpg?adImageId=8976947&amp;imageId=210464\" width=\"234\" height=\"156\" /]\n\nIf this sounds a bit like a high school popularity contest, it is, for some people.  Many people use Twitter to give and get information and ideas, but there is a subset of people who use Twitter to prove their hotness/coolness/hipness/in-the-knowness.  These people go so far as to form cliques on Twitter, endlessly referencing their clique friends in every Tweet. They converse in public with each other and rarely engage with non-clique/inner circle people. Several of these people are \"social media experts,\" which is ironic since they are not being very social (I must credit <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Daria Steigman\" href=\"http://www.steigmancommunications.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Daria Steigman of Steigman Communications</a> with this idea).\n\nI have theories as to why Twitter becomes like a high school for these people but I won\'t share them here.  It is important to remember what social networks are for, and that is to make it easy to create connection. If all you are doing on Twitter is sending shout-outs to your five closest buddies or endlessly promoting yourself, you are not using Twitter to its full potential. I can\'t say that you are not using Twitter for what it is intended because I have no idea what its founder was thinking when he created the microblogging site.\n\nTwitter is a great learning tool and it is a great sharing tool. It democratizes access and can really serve to mobilize people around causes. Eugene Robinson makes excellent observation in today\'s Washington Post, saying:\n<blockquote>Twitter and other networking sites are unfiltered by editors or other gatekeepers. They rely on the wisdom of the crowd to sort out what is accurate and what is not. To someone (like me) who has spent his career as a gatekeeper, this was tremendously unsettling -- at first. During the Iran protests, I saw how quickly Twitter users identified misinformation that was being posted by government propagandists. The self-policing capability of the medium is impressive.\n\nThe other big difference is that social networking offers not just information, but also the opportunity to take action. Twitter users were able to work together to mask the identities of the Iranian demonstrators who were using the site to tell the world what was happening. Last night, along with the news from Haiti came suggestions for how the Twitter community could most effectively help the relief effort.\n\nIs this “news” the way we used to think of it? No. But it’s news people can use.\n\nRead <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Eugene Robinson\" href=\"http://voices.washingtonpost.com/postpartisan/2010/01/following_the_earthquake_in_ha.html#more\" target=\"_blank\">complete article</a> here.</blockquote>\nTo  those popularity hounds on Twitter I say put high school behind you.  If you have something worthwhile to say people will follow you no matter who your friends are or aren\'t.','Is Twitter a High School for Adults?','','inherit','open','open','','614-revision','','','2010-01-14 08:00:22','2010-01-14 13:00:22','',614,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/01/614-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1346,4,'2010-01-20 07:41:07','2010-01-20 12:41:07','We\'ve all heard it before, \"it is not what you say, but how you say it. \"  Well, in my opinion,  it is both. What you say is also important, but how you say it makes the difference in how it is received. One person who does not seem to understand or care about this is President Obama\'s press secretary, Robert Gibbs.  Gibbs is forever being snarky, sarcastic and just plain unpleasant. I would lay bets that most, if not all, of the White House press corps despise his guts.\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=robert+gibbs&amp;iid=7458562\" src=\"b/2/e/c/White_House_Press_3076.JPG?adImageId=9322530&amp;imageId=7458562\" width=\"234\" height=\"329\" /]\n\nIn my opinion, Gibbs is one of the worst press secretaries I have ever seen. He can\'t answer questions straight on, he uses big words he doesn\'t seem to understand, but worst of all, he seems bored and above the job. This morning, I read a great <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Robert Gibbs \" href=\"http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2010/01/19/AR2010011904347.html?hpid=opinionsbox1\" target=\"_blank\">column on Gibbs in the Washington Post, by Dana Milbank</a>. Most of the time, Milbank\'s own sarcasm and unpleasantness make his column a must-skip, so imagine my surprise when he points out his own apparent dislike of Gibbs\' snark. Here\'s an excerpt from the column:\n<blockquote>Gibbs acts as though he\'s playing himself in the movie version of his job. In this imaginary film, he is the smart-alecky press secretary, offering zippy comebacks and cracking jokes to make his questioners look ridiculous. It\'s no great feat to make reporters look bad, but this act also sends a televised image of a cocksure White House to ordinary Americans watching at home.\n\nThis is the most visible manifestation of a larger problem the Obama White House has. Many Obama loyalists from the 2008 race still seem, after a year on the job, to have trouble exiting campaign mode. They sometimes appear to be running a taxpayer-funded rapid-response operation</blockquote>\nIf Obama is sinking in the polls, and his agenda is failing (and now he has managed to lose a historically Democratic Senate seat, although that may have had more to do with the Democratic candidate\'s lack of campaign skills --Read this great blog post on it by my friends over at <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Fresh Ground on Mass elections\" href=\"http://itsfreshground.com/2010/01/mass-election/\" target=\"_blank\">Fresh Ground Communications</a>). It may have something to do with HOW the White House is communicating its message, which is poorly.  Gibbs\' holier-than-thou approach to everything and everyone is not helping one bit. If Obama wants to regain some footing I would suggest he replace Gibbs with someone a bit kinder, a bit gentler.  Replace Gibbs with someone who gets that how you say things really does make a difference.\n\nWhat are your thoughts? Do you like Gibbs? How about a poll:\n\n[polldaddy poll=2560587]\n\n','How you say it','','inherit','open','open','','621-revision','','','2010-01-20 07:41:07','2010-01-20 12:41:07','',621,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/01/621-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1343,4,'2010-02-19 10:17:42','2010-02-19 15:17:42','Are you by chance speaking in jargon? Why are you doing that?\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=languages&amp;iid=108258\" src=\"0104/435f9fff-1f6b-4ed9-84a0-4580b834d54d.jpg?adImageId=10492508&amp;imageId=108258\" width=\"234\" height=\"351\" /]\n\nAs a writer and a consultant, I often ask my clients what their \"keywords\" are. It is helpful, and sometimes crucial, to use the right terminology for any given industry.  Especially when you are working in a business to business environment, you need to know how these businesses look for the services/products that they need. But when an outsider lands on one of these B-to-B web pages or marketing materials,  he or she will most likely end up not understanding a word.  For instance, a client of mine uses the terms \"professional services.\"  For general marketing purposes, this is the emptiest phrase out there, but in the client\'s world, it carries a specific meaning.\n\nSetting aside the need for industry-specific terminology, and recognizing the importance of specific terminology in a B-to-B setting, what is going on with language today? Why are so many people talking in gobbledy-gook? Lately, I have heard the following phrases/terms on TV, in conversation and seemingly, everywhere else:\n<ul>\n	<li>Drilling down (apparently, this means getting to the heart of the issue or talking specifically)</li>\n	<li>Sweet spot (as in where the perfect opportunity lies)</li>\n	<li>Being out of pocket (never got this one although it means being unreachable)</li>\n	<li>Getting your ducks all in a row (oldie but goodie, means be prepared)</li>\n	<li>Leveraging an opportunity (making the most of something)</li>\n	<li>Staying ahead of the curve (presumably, leveraging opportunities to get to your sweet spot)</li>\n</ul>\nIn a sense, these universally used phrases serve as a crutch. Use them and other people will understand what you mean, even when the meaning isn\'t entirely clear. Sometimes, using touch phrases makes someone look like an insider, someone who is in the know.\n\nIn the end, jargon and catch phrases muck up your meaning. It\'s one thing to use these in conversation where I can stop and ask you what you mean. It\'s another to use them in writing.  When things are written (especially printed) there is no easy or quick way to ask the writer what he or she means.\n\nCatch my drift?\n\n','What language are you speaking?','','inherit','open','open','','651-revision','','','2010-02-19 10:17:42','2010-02-19 15:17:42','',651,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/02/651-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1336,4,'2010-06-01 08:14:23','2010-06-01 13:14:23','We all have pet peeves and things that make us go bonkers. Right? Unfortunately, we can\'t always tell what will make other people feel like they are listening to nails scratching a blackboard, and sometimes our communications misfire because of it.\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=nails+scratching&amp;iid=199257\" src=\"0195/942cd443-efbf-4adf-a4fc-a16acd3e1ddb.jpg?adImageId=13061654&amp;imageId=199257\" width=\"266\" height=\"641\" /]\n\nI wish I could say these are universal peeves and that you should avoid them at all costs (you <em>should </em>avoid them with me), instead I am asking you to think of what makes you crazy and what you would like to see avoided. Please be sure to share in the comments.\n<ul>\n	<li>Using words that you don\'t understand or saying something complicated when simple would do (like utile--why can\'t you say useful?)</li>\n</ul>\n<ul>\n	<li>Having really obvious grammatical mistakes (example: using I instead of me or having problems with subject-verb agreement)</li>\n</ul>\n(Please read this entry over at OpenForum: <a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"Open Forum\" href=\"http://www.openforum.com/idea-hub/topics/marketing/article/5-common-word-usage-mistakes-that-make-you-sound-stupid-or-worse-pompous-ann-handley\" target=\"_blank\">5 Common Word Usage Mistakes that Make You Sound Stupid</a>)\n<ul>\n	<li>Capitalizing Everything Instead of Bolding: more and more people are doing this in white papers and other texts. <strong>Capitals are for proper names and the beginning of sentences only.</strong></li>\n</ul>\n<ul>\n	<li>Threatening: If you don\'t do it this now... For instance, I got an email from the IPRA (a division of the PRSA-NCC) about an event, and then I got another email, and another. Then, I got one that said \"final notice.\" Like if it was an overdue bill and I hadn\'t paid it. And then I get an email telling me it\'s my \"last chance.\" Here\'s a newsflash IPRA: threatening me is not going to make me more interested in seeing Mike McCurry,  who sold out his boss for the chance to sell his book. Nope.</li>\n</ul>\n<ul>\n	<li>Saying or claiming things that are obviously not true: I am planning to write a post about this specifically, but what I am referring to are ads or brochures that seem to ignore reality.  Like those Cox Communications commercials that claim the company has great customer service, when plenty of people can attest to the opposite. Or American Airlines claiming to be empathetic, telling me they know why I fly.</li>\n</ul>\n<ul>\n	<li>Insulting my intelligence: enough said.</li>\n</ul>\n<ul>\n	<li>Excessive self-promotion:  I see this a lot on Twitter and Facebook. When you feel the need to tell me how great you are all the time, I immediately think you are insecure.  I used to follow someone who was very proud of her WeightWatchers progress. And that is fine, but she needed all her followers to pat her on the back too. There is a moving line somewhere between excessive self-promotion (and neediness) and genuine pride and promotion of accomplishments. Figure out where it lies.</li>\n</ul>\nWhat\'s on your list?\n\n\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F06%2F01%2Fthings-that-make-me-crazy%2F&amp;linkname=Things%20that%20make%20me%20crazy\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Things that make me crazy','','inherit','open','open','','770-revision','','','2010-06-01 08:14:23','2010-06-01 13:14:23','',770,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/06/770-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1333,4,'2010-06-24 11:43:28','2010-06-24 16:43:28','As anyone who has been through media training knows, what you say to a journalist is always on the record, even if you think it\'s not. When you talk to a journalist, he or she is gathering information, and whether you are quoted directly or not, you have been used as a source.\n\nRecently, there have been two widely publicized media gaffes.  The most recent involves comments made by General Stanly McChrystal and his staff to Rolling Stone magazine. Those comments, widely seen as being proof of insubordination, led to McChrystal\'s resignation from his post as commanding officer of the war in Afghanistan.\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=mcchrystal&amp;iid=9179806\" src=\"http://view2.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/9179806/file-photo-army-general/file-photo-army-general.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=9179806\" width=\"234\" height=\"150\" /]\n\nIt is hard to believe that McChrystal, a former head of Special Ops, would be so candid with a journalist not knowing his comments would make it to print.  Anyone who has had as much exposure to the media would know that a journalist is always pursuing a story. In my opinion, McChrystal knew exactly what he was doing, and had his own motivations for getting on the record with his views of President Obama and the direction of the war in Afghanistan.\n\nThe other media gaffe also cost a job. I am talking of Helen Thomas and her anti-Semitic barrage, caught on video by a citizen journalist and blogger.  Thomas, when asked on her views on Israel, did not hold back her contempt or her extremist views. Some have asked whether she understood the implications of talking to a non-journalist.  In her fifty years plus of experience, Thomas must have come across a hand-held camera before. As a journalist herself, she knows that anything you say in front of other people can be quoted or at least, used as source material. Even if Thomas had not been captured on video, the Rabbi who interviewed her could have publicized her comments.\n\nBecause, as we said before, now more than ever, NOTHING is off the record. And all of us are going on the record all the time, on Twitter, Facebook, blogs and wherever else we are interacting. We need to be mindful that what we say can and will be used against (or for) us.\n\nYour thoughts?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F06%2F24%2Fits-always-on-the-record%2F&amp;linkname=It%27s%20always%20on%20the%20record!\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>\n\n','It\'s always on the record!','','inherit','open','open','','797-revision','','','2010-06-24 11:43:28','2010-06-24 16:43:28','',797,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/06/797-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1330,4,'2010-08-04 09:48:42','2010-08-04 14:48:42','This past weekend I took a little trip out to the beach in Rehoboth, Delaware. The weather was great and hanging out near the ocean is always relaxing. You see all types out on the beach but what struck me as I looked around was how many obese people were there. In fact, I am seeing more and more obese people everywhere. The<a class=\"wp-caption\" title=\"NY Times\" href=\"http://www.nytimes.com/2010/08/04/health/nutrition/04fat.html?_r=1\" target=\"_blank\"> New York Times reports that obesity rates are rising,</a> so it really is no surprise.  Pretty close to one out of three Americans is obese.\n\nAs the New York Times article points out, obesity is a national health epidemic. Obesity can be tied to many deadly diseases, including heart disease, diabetes and high blood pressure.\n\n[picapp align=\"none\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=obese+people&amp;iid=275419\" src=\"http://view4.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/275419/beer-belly/beer-belly.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=275419\" width=\"319\" height=\"480\" /]\n\nIs marketing to blame for obesity? On the boardwalk in Rehoboth it is hard to avoid the aroma of french fries and candied popcorn. Candy stores are everywhere, and healthy food is hard to find. There were a lot of people jogging on the boardwalk, but there were many more people just sitting on the beach. Fast food and junk food don\'t really have to market too much--they just have to be available. Which begs the question, if healthy options were available (and made to look as tantalizing), would people choose to buy those instead?\n\nIs there an effort being made by public health authorities to market a healthier lifestyle? I don\'t see any evidence of it. Obviously, it is hard to change people\'s habits. And when on vacation, people tend to want to reward themselves with treats like fried dough and salt water taffy. How many people want to use vacation to start a healthy eating plan? Not many--because it is not appealing.\n\nIf marketing has a fault in the obesity epidemic, is that not enough is being done to market healthy choices, or the benefits of  NOT being obese. Or perhaps, more should be done to show people the MORTAL DANGERS of obesity. It is not just about looks--our society certainly markets thinness as an equivalent to beauty--but about health. Fat people are at risk, and the sad thing is they can do something about it: eat less, exercise more.\n\nWhat are your thoughts? How can society convince people to stop piling on the pounds?\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F08%2F04%2Fa-big-fat-problem%2F&amp;linkname=A%20big%2C%20fat%20problem\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','A big, fat problem','','inherit','open','open','','850-revision','','','2010-08-04 09:48:42','2010-08-04 14:48:42','',850,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/08/850-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1327,4,'2010-10-25 09:36:35','2010-10-25 14:36:35','Are your efforts paying off? Is your marketing achieving results?\n\n[picapp align=\"center\" wrap=\"false\" link=\"term=bull\'s+eye&amp;iid=5253916\" src=\"http://view2.picapp.com/pictures.photo/image/5253916/close-dart-bulls-eye/close-dart-bulls-eye.jpg?size=500&amp;imageId=5253916\" width=\"234\" height=\"234\" /]\n\nHow do you know? Obviously, the first sign is that you are generating numbers: sales, impressions.\n\nBut how do you know what people think about you, your product, your service and your marketing efforts? This is a harder question to answer. If people don\'t attend your event, it could be for a myriad of reasons (don\'t have time, costs too much not interested). Same thing with your product or service. How do you know why people aren\'t buying?\n\nIt comes down to requesting feedback, and to listening to what your audience has to say.\n\nFirst, you should ALWAYS request feedback from attendees to your event and people who buy your product. Make it easy for people to provide comments on your website. Have an email address specifically for feedback.\n\nSecond, listen to what exactly  is being said about you in the comments  you receive. Also,  cast a wider net: check out <a title=\"Social Mention\" href=\"http://www.socialmention.com/\" target=\"_blank\">SocialMention</a> (or other social media monitoring tools) to see what is being said about you or your brand.\n\nLast week, I tweeted to a local marketing networking group that they were sending me too many email messages. In fact, it got to a point that I would just delete rather than read. The organizational response to me via Twitter  was to tell me they would be happy to remove me from the list. I told them to take my comment seriously. I was giving them FEEDBACK. They didn\'t want to listen.\n\nYou will not know if you are hitting the mark with your marketing efforts if you don\'t make an effort to gather feedback. You may get some people to buy your product or attend your event, but you may be missing a host of others.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F10%2F25%2Fare-you-hitting-the-mark%2F&amp;linkname=Are%20you%20hitting%20the%20mark%3F\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Are you hitting the mark?','','inherit','open','open','','940-revision','','','2010-10-25 09:36:35','2010-10-25 14:36:35','',940,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/10/940-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1323,4,'2011-05-09 09:40:30','2011-05-09 14:40:30','Perhaps if you studied politics, like I did, you think faction is a party or group that is usually causing some trouble. However, if you watch <a href=\"http://morganspurlock.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Morgan Spurlock\'s</a> The Greatest Movie Ever Sold, you will learn that a \"faction\" is a combination of the words fact and fiction. Meaning that it is neither fact nor fiction. Perhaps it is a fictionalized fact, or fact-based fiction. Sounds like many of the memoirs that are making the rounds these days.\n\nThe Greatest Movie Ever Sold is a faction, and it is a must-watch movie if you are even remotely interested in marketing. Spurlock, who is previously known for his documentary Super Size Me, has blown open the world of product placement and movie funding.\n\nThis movie is funny and it is pure genius. To see Spurlock go pitch this movie, about product placement and movie funding, to people in marketing is just about as humorous as any parody can be. But what is truly genius, is that it is real. This is how things get done in the world of marketing. Celebrity endorsements are real. Advertisers are looking for new ways to reach more audiences. And everything is for sale.\n\nI can\'t do this movie justice here. There was too much stuff that struck a chord, from creating a pitch, to finding the brand personality, to how to market a movie.\n\nHere\'s a the official trailer:\n\n[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T4Ng2P3zxfM&amp;w=560&amp;h=349]\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F05%2F09%2Ffaction-learn-what-this-is%2F&amp;linkname=%22Faction%3A%22%20learn%20what%20this%20is\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','\"Faction:\" learn what this is','','inherit','open','open','','1137-revision','','','2011-05-09 09:40:30','2011-05-09 14:40:30','',1137,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/05/1137-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1324,4,'2011-08-12 00:30:40','2011-08-12 00:30:40','Perhaps if you studied politics, like I did, you think faction is a party or group that is usually causing some trouble. However, if you watch <a href=\"http://morganspurlock.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Morgan Spurlock\'s</a> The Greatest Movie Ever Sold, you will learn that a \"faction\" is a combination of the words fact and fiction. Meaning that it is neither fact nor fiction. Perhaps it is a fictionalized fact, or fact-based fiction. Sounds like many of the memoirs that are making the rounds these days.\n\nThe Greatest Movie Ever Sold is a faction, and it is a must-watch movie if you are even remotely interested in marketing. Spurlock, who is previously known for his documentary Super Size Me, has blown open the world of product placement and movie funding.\n\nThis movie is funny and it is pure genius. To see Spurlock go pitch this movie, about product placement and movie funding, to people in marketing is just about as humorous as any parody can be. But what is truly genius, is that it is real. This is how things get done in the world of marketing. Celebrity endorsements are real. Advertisers are looking for new ways to reach more audiences. And everything is for sale.\n\nI can\'t do this movie justice here. There was too much stuff that struck a chord, from creating a pitch, to finding the brand personality, to how to market a movie.\n\nHere\'s a the official trailer:\n\n[youtube id=T4Ng2P3zxfM&amp;w=560&amp;h=349]\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2011%2F05%2F09%2Ffaction-learn-what-this-is%2F&amp;linkname=%22Faction%3A%22%20learn%20what%20this%20is\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','\"Faction:\" learn what this is','','inherit','open','open','','1137-autosave','','','2011-08-12 00:30:40','2011-08-12 00:30:40','',1137,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/1137-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),
(1325,4,'2010-10-21 08:03:53','2010-10-21 13:03:53','When you are trying to market your services or your product, you will naturally try to make the product or service look appealing. That\'s fine, as long as you are not overselling or over-promising. If you oversell or promise something you can\'t deliver, you will run into problems.\n\nLet me give you an example, drawn from my experience this week with the US Postal Service.\n\nMy mother sent me an express package on Monday. It was guaranteed to be delivered by noon on Tuesday. It wasn\'t. I called the 1-800 to track it and find out where it was. After some problems with the automated attendant (that is a whole other issue), I got through to a representative. She had no idea where my package was or when I would get it. At one point, she put me on hold. During this interlude, I found out that:\n<blockquote>For delivery you can rely on, choose the United States Postal Service.</blockquote>\nIs that supposed to be a joke? My \"express\" package arrived more than 24 hours after it was \"guaranteed\" to arrive. And as I learned from the customer service agent, the guarantee is really about your money. They don\'t actually guarantee the arrival of the express packages at their destination, but rather, if your package doesn\'t arrive when they say it will, they will give you your money back.\n\nI guess that when you absolutely, positively need it there by a certain time, don\'t use the USPS, use Fedex (or UPS). For those of you who don\'t remember the Fedex ad, here it is\n\n[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=31yxkSIIn9A&amp;fs=1&amp;hl=en_US&amp;rel=0]\n\nThe quickest thing you can do ruin your reputation is to promise that you will do something that you can\'t or won\'t do. And reputation is important in marketing. What do you think my impression is of the USPS?\n\nSo, when you are prepping your marketing materials (and especially your tag line), be careful about what you say.  Daily Blog Tips has a great post on <a title=\"Daily Blog Tips\" href=\"http://www.dailyblogtips.com/10-tips-to-improve-your-sales-copy-today/\" target=\"_blank\">10 Tips to Improve Your Sales Copy Today</a>. Note that their number two tip is:  <strong>Don\'t Make a Promise You Can\'t Keep.</strong>\n\n<strong>\n</strong>\n\n<a href=\"http://www.addtoany.com/share_save?linkurl=http%3A%2F%2Fcuppamarcomm.wordpress.com%2F2010%2F10%2F21%2Fcan-you-keep-your-promise%2F&amp;linkname=Can%20you%20keep%20your%20promise%3F\" target=\"_blank\"><img src=\"http://static.addtoany.com/buttons/share_save_256_24.png\" alt=\"Share\" /></a>','Can you keep your promise?','','inherit','open','open','','934-revision','','','2010-10-21 08:03:53','2010-10-21 13:03:53','',934,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/10/934-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1326,4,'2010-12-14 06:59:54','2010-12-14 11:59:54','Have you seen the new UPS commercials? It\'s about logistics.  There are several different iterations, but they all talk about how important logistics are, and of course, UPS is all about logistics.  Really? I thought UPS was about shipping. But I guess I am supposed to now think of shipping as just the visible part of the complex web that is logistics.\n\n[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRAHa_Po0Kg&fs=1&amp;hl=en_US]\n\nWhat\'s good:\n\nSong is memorable. Logistics is a new USP for UPS. It has definitely caught my attention.\n\nWhat\'s bad:\n\nLogistics? Really? Is that why I would ship with UPS over Fedex?\n\nYour thoughts?','Logistics?','','inherit','open','open','','995-revision','','','2010-12-14 06:59:54','2010-12-14 11:59:54','',995,'http://deborahbrody.com/2010/12/995-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1363,4,'2011-06-07 09:02:37','2011-06-07 09:02:37','','Services','','inherit','open','open','','14-revision-v1','','','2011-06-07 09:02:37','2011-06-07 09:02:37','',14,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/06/14-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),
(1364,4,'2011-08-19 04:46:59','2011-08-19 04:46:59','Writing Translation Communications Consulting Communication Audit','','','publish','open','open','','1364','','','2018-02-12 10:39:32','2018-02-12 15:39:32','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/?p=1364',2,'nav_menu_item','',0),
(1367,4,'2011-08-19 05:34:09','2011-08-19 05:34:09','Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 05:34:09','2011-08-19 05:34:09','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-8/',0,'revision','',0),
(1368,4,'2011-08-19 05:34:31','2011-08-19 05:34:31','<div style=\"aboutleft\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 05:34:31','2011-08-19 05:34:31','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-9/',0,'revision','',0),
(1369,4,'2011-08-19 05:38:20','2011-08-19 05:38:20','<div class=\"aboutleft\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 05:38:20','2011-08-19 05:38:20','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-10/',0,'revision','',0),
(1370,4,'2011-08-19 05:41:39','2011-08-19 05:41:39','<div style=\"width:600px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 05:41:39','2011-08-19 05:41:39','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-11/',0,'revision','',0),
(1371,4,'2011-08-19 05:43:53','2011-08-19 05:43:53','<div style=\"width:600px;\" align=\"left\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div style=\"width:320px;\">Picture Here\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 05:43:53','2011-08-19 05:43:53','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-12/',0,'revision','',0),
(1374,4,'2011-08-19 05:46:29','2011-08-19 05:46:29','<div id=\"aboutleft\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div style=\"width:300px;\" align=\"left\">Picture Here\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 05:46:29','2011-08-19 05:46:29','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-15/',0,'revision','',0),
(1372,4,'2011-08-19 05:44:18','2011-08-19 05:44:18','<div style=\"width:600px;\" align=\"left\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div style=\"width:320px;\" align=\"left\">Picture Here\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 05:44:18','2011-08-19 05:44:18','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-13/',0,'revision','',0),
(1373,4,'2011-08-19 05:44:38','2011-08-19 05:44:38','<div style=\"width:600px;\" align=\"left\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div style=\"width:300px;\" align=\"left\">Picture Here\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 05:44:38','2011-08-19 05:44:38','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-14/',0,'revision','',0),
(1375,4,'2011-08-19 06:22:43','2011-08-19 06:22:43','','testimonial-box','','inherit','open','open','','testimonial-box','','','2011-08-19 06:22:43','2011-08-19 06:22:43','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/testimonial-box.png',0,'attachment','image/png',0),
(1376,4,'2011-08-19 05:52:44','2011-08-19 05:52:44','<div id=\"aboutleft\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">Picture Here\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 05:52:44','2011-08-19 05:52:44','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-16/',0,'revision','',0),
(1377,4,'2011-08-19 06:31:11','2011-08-19 06:31:11','<div id=\"aboutleft\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">Picture Here\r\n<div id=\"testimonial><p>In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p>Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 06:31:11','2011-08-19 06:31:11','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-17/',0,'revision','',0),
(1378,4,'2011-08-19 06:31:44','2011-08-19 06:31:44','<div id=\"aboutleft\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial><p>In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p>Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 06:31:44','2011-08-19 06:31:44','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-18/',0,'revision','',0),
(1379,4,'2011-08-19 06:32:46','2011-08-19 06:32:46','<div id=\"aboutleft\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p>In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p>Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 06:32:46','2011-08-19 06:32:46','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-19/',0,'revision','',0),
(1382,4,'2011-08-19 07:34:22','2011-08-19 07:34:22','<div id=\"aboutleft\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p>In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p>Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 07:34:22','2011-08-19 07:34:22','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-22/',0,'revision','',0),
(1380,4,'2011-08-19 07:25:01','2011-08-19 07:25:01','<div id=\"aboutleft\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p>Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 07:25:01','2011-08-19 07:25:01','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-20/',0,'revision','',0),
(1381,4,'2011-08-19 07:33:34','2011-08-19 07:33:34','<div id=\"aboutleft\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testtext\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p>Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 07:33:34','2011-08-19 07:33:34','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-21/',0,'revision','',0),
(1383,4,'2011-08-19 07:46:21','2011-08-19 07:46:21','<div id=\"aboutleft\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p>In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 07:46:21','2011-08-19 07:46:21','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-23/',0,'revision','',0),
(1384,4,'2011-08-19 07:47:34','2011-08-19 07:47:34','<div id=\"aboutleft\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 07:47:34','2011-08-19 07:47:34','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-24/',0,'revision','',0),
(1385,4,'2011-08-19 07:52:29','2011-08-19 07:52:29','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\nDeborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 07:52:29','2011-08-19 07:52:29','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-25/',0,'revision','',0),
(1386,4,'2011-08-19 07:55:29','2011-08-19 07:55:29','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\nDeborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 07:55:29','2011-08-19 07:55:29','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-26/',0,'revision','',0),
(1387,4,'2011-08-19 07:59:40','2011-08-19 07:59:40','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 07:59:40','2011-08-19 07:59:40','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-27/',0,'revision','',0),
(1388,4,'2011-08-19 08:00:21','2011-08-19 08:00:21','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"padding-right: 10px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 08:00:21','2011-08-19 08:00:21','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-28/',0,'revision','',0),
(1389,4,'2011-08-19 08:01:39','2011-08-19 08:01:39','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"mrgin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 20px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 08:01:39','2011-08-19 08:01:39','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-29/',0,'revision','',0),
(1390,4,'2011-08-19 08:01:54','2011-08-19 08:01:54','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 20px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 08:01:54','2011-08-19 08:01:54','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-30/',0,'revision','',0),
(1391,4,'2011-08-19 08:03:05','2011-08-19 08:03:05','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"margin-right: 10px; margin-bottom: 20px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah is a smart, clear, and strong writer who always impresses me with her awareness of the latest marketing trends. </p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Bonnie Auslander, Office of Business Communications, American University Kogod School of Business</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 08:03:05','2011-08-19 08:03:05','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-31/',0,'revision','',0),
(1392,4,'2011-08-19 08:06:14','2011-08-19 08:06:14','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 20px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah is a smart, clear, and strong writer who always impresses me with her awareness of the latest marketing trends. </p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Bonnie Auslander, Office of Business Communications, American University Kogod School of Business</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 08:06:14','2011-08-19 08:06:14','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-32/',0,'revision','',0),
(1393,4,'2011-08-19 08:06:29','2011-08-19 08:06:29','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 25px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah is a smart, clear, and strong writer who always impresses me with her awareness of the latest marketing trends. </p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Bonnie Auslander, Office of Business Communications, American University Kogod School of Business</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 08:06:29','2011-08-19 08:06:29','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-33/',0,'revision','',0),
(1394,4,'2011-08-19 08:06:47','2011-08-19 08:06:47','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 30px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah is a smart, clear, and strong writer who always impresses me with her awareness of the latest marketing trends. </p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Bonnie Auslander, Office of Business Communications, American University Kogod School of Business</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 08:06:47','2011-08-19 08:06:47','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-34/',0,'revision','',0),
(1395,4,'2011-08-19 08:07:01','2011-08-19 08:07:01','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 35px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah is a smart, clear, and strong writer who always impresses me with her awareness of the latest marketing trends. </p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Bonnie Auslander, Office of Business Communications, American University Kogod School of Business</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 08:07:01','2011-08-19 08:07:01','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-35/',0,'revision','',0),
(1396,4,'2011-08-19 08:07:23','2011-08-19 08:07:23','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 40px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.</div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah is a smart, clear, and strong writer who always impresses me with her awareness of the latest marketing trends. </p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Bonnie Auslander, Office of Business Communications, American University Kogod School of Business</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-19 08:07:23','2011-08-19 08:07:23','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-36/',0,'revision','',0),
(1397,4,'2011-08-24 16:08:37','2011-08-24 16:08:37','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 40px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.\r\n<p><a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/clients/\">Clients</a> | <a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/portfolio/\">Portfolio</a> | <a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/how-we-work/\">How We Work</p></div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah is a smart, clear, and strong writer who always impresses me with her awareness of the latest marketing trends. </p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Bonnie Auslander, Office of Business Communications, American University Kogod School of Business</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-24 16:08:37','2011-08-24 16:08:37','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-37/',0,'revision','',0),
(1398,4,'2011-08-24 16:08:57','2011-08-24 16:08:57','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 40px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.\r\n<p><a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/clients/\">Clients</a> | <a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/portfolio/\">Portfolio</a> | <a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/how-we-work/\">How We Work</a></p></div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah is a smart, clear, and strong writer who always impresses me with her awareness of the latest marketing trends. </p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Bonnie Auslander, Office of Business Communications, American University Kogod School of Business</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-24 16:08:57','2011-08-24 16:08:57','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-38/',0,'revision','',0),
(1399,4,'2011-08-24 16:09:24','2011-08-24 16:09:24','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 40px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.\r\n<p style=\"text-align:center;\"><a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/clients/\">Clients</a> | <a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/portfolio/\">Portfolio</a> | <a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/how-we-work/\">How We Work</a></p></div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah is a smart, clear, and strong writer who always impresses me with her awareness of the latest marketing trends. </p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Bonnie Auslander, Office of Business Communications, American University Kogod School of Business</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-24 16:09:24','2011-08-24 16:09:24','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-39/',0,'revision','',0),
(1400,4,'2011-08-24 16:09:55','2011-08-24 16:09:55','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 40px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.\r\n<p style=\"text-align:center; size:16px;\"><a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/clients/\">Clients</a> | <a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/portfolio/\">Portfolio</a> | <a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/how-we-work/\">How We Work</a></p></div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah is a smart, clear, and strong writer who always impresses me with her awareness of the latest marketing trends. </p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Bonnie Auslander, Office of Business Communications, American University Kogod School of Business</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-24 16:09:55','2011-08-24 16:09:55','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-40/',0,'revision','',0),
(1401,4,'2011-08-24 16:10:20','2011-08-24 16:10:20','<div id=\"aboutleft\">\r\n<img src=\"http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/08/picture.jpg\" align=\"left\" style=\"margin-right: 20px; margin-bottom: 40px;\">Deborah Brody is a writer and consultant with nearly 20 years public relations, advertising and marketing experience. Her firm, Deborah Brody Marketing Communications (DBMC), provides high-level writing and consulting to small and medium-sized businesses and nonprofits.\r\n\r\nPrior to launching DBMC in 2002 and helping organizations refine marketing materials, write blog posts, create website content, and generate press releases, the bilingual (English, Spanish) Deborah worked at several South Florida-based agencies, including Everett Clay Associates, The Jeffrey Group, and  Peter Nasca Associates. With these firms, she specialized in public relations in Latin America and corporate communications.  During this time, Deborah also taught Advanced Public Relations Writing at Florida International  University.\r\n\r\nCurrently based in the Washington,  D.C. area, Deborah is a graduate of Brandeis University (B.A., Politics) and of Boston University\'s College of Communications, where she earned a Master\'s degree in Mass Communication.\r\n\r\nDeborah is now serving her second year on the board of Washington Women in Public Relations (WWPR), where she chairs the Pro Bono Committee, and has also held positions with the National Arts Marketing Council’s Steering Committee (Miami) and the Jewish Community Relations Council (Miami).\r\n\r\nAn avid reader, Deborah leads a book group that meets monthly to discuss current fiction.\r\n<p style=\"text-align:center; font-size:16px;\"><a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/clients/\">Clients</a> | <a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/portfolio/\">Portfolio</a> | <a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/about/how-we-work/\">How We Work</a></p></div>\r\n<div id=\"aboutright\">\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">In the media relations area, Deborah displayed great news instincts - she knew what was newsworthy and how to get coverage. She is a creative, clear, and concise writer, targeting her products to the organization and its audiences. Plus, she\'s bi-lingual and can help you reach even broader audiences.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Debbie Auerbach-Deutsch, former VP of Communications, B’nai B’rith International</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah wrote 8 reports on workshops that took place at the International Aid & Trade Event in Washington D.C. The articles she wrote are accurate, engaging and comprehensive. They were delivered as requested and on time. I am more than satisfied with Deborah\'s work and she was a pleasure to work with.</p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Sula Bruce, Aid and Development Forum</p>\r\n</div>\r\n<div id=\"testimonial\"><p id=\"testimonial\">Deborah is a smart, clear, and strong writer who always impresses me with her awareness of the latest marketing trends. </p>\r\n<p id=\"testimonial\">Bonnie Auslander, Office of Business Communications, American University Kogod School of Business</p>\r\n</div>\r\n</div>','About','','inherit','open','open','','18-revision-v1','','','2011-08-24 16:10:20','2011-08-24 16:10:20','',18,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/18-revision-41/',0,'revision','',0),
(1403,4,'2011-08-10 10:37:59','0000-00-00 00:00:00','Have you heard of Salonpas? I wouldn\'t blame if you haven\'t. First of all--what is that? It sounds like it\'s French and has to do with hairstyling. Second, if you have seen the commercials for it on TV, you may have thought you were watching the fake product ads on Saturday Night Live.\n\nBetween the low production value and the weird name, these commercials look like they could be reigning in the midnight to 6 am hours. But what had me shaking my head was what I consider one of the worst slogans of all time:\n\n\"Nothing\'s been proven to beat the relief.\"\n\nWhat does this mean? It means that there is no proof that anything works. That might be true in the case of Salonpas.\n\nThe takeaway here is that the name of your product or service matters. If you are going to be \"different\" then you better do a good job of explaining exactly what you do. And remember, slogans and taglines are more effective when they are clear.\n\nSee for yourself:\n\n[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eX4WVN4YN0Q&amp;w=560&amp;h=349] ','Can you market a product successfully if it has a crappy name?','','draft','open','open','','','','','2011-08-10 10:37:59','0000-00-00 00:00:00','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1234',0,'post','',0),
(1404,4,'2011-08-22 08:41:50','0000-00-00 00:00:00','We all have gotten spam--in our email inbox, our Twitter feed, even on our phones (there is text spam and also some forms of telemarketing, especially robo-calls). I don\'t know many people who enjoy getting spam and even fewer who respond to spam. Yet, we can learn from the spammers--on what does not work.\n\nHere are the three main lessons you can learn from spammers:\n<ol>\n	<li>Don\'t underestimate the intelligence of your target audience</li>\n	<li>Don\'t send the same message over and over and over and over</li>\n	<li>Customize your message</li>\n</ol>\nWhat would you add?','What you can learn from spammers','','draft','open','open','','','','','2011-08-22 08:41:50','0000-00-00 00:00:00','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1263',0,'post','',0),
(1405,4,'2011-08-26 14:06:35','0000-00-00 00:00:00','So, Microsoft, which may just define ubiquitous, is working on re-branding itself to combat the Mac attack. It is using Jerry Seinfeld to do it. I found the story on MSNBC.\n\nI am not sure that Microsoft needs to re-brand...or re-invent. Maybe improve (fewer crashes, fewer patches). In my world, most people work on PCs, except for those in design, who generally use Mac. Of those on PC,  I would venture most are running the Microsoft XP OS. Some have had to upgrade to Vista. But we all seem to work on Microsoft software like Word and Excel. I finally stopped using Explorer and now am on Mozilla, which seems less prone to shutdowns and freeze up than IE.  My point is that Microsoft is everywhere and people really don\'t associate it with anything but computers. How much more branded can','Microsoft Mega Branding','','draft','open','open','','','','','2011-08-26 14:06:35','0000-00-00 00:00:00','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=105',0,'post','',0),
(1406,4,'2008-01-27 11:35:39','2008-01-27 16:35:39','','','','inherit','open','open','','8','','','2008-01-27 11:35:39','2008-01-27 16:35:39','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/01/leje_108_half18k_bg.pdf',0,'attachment','application/pdf',0),
(1407,4,'2011-08-10 10:45:59','2011-08-10 15:45:59','Taglines can help or hamper your marketing efforts. They must be clear and relevant. A few nights ago, I was watching TV and saw the following commercial for Red Lobster:\n\n[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySl03vqdKNQ&amp;w=560&amp;h=349]\n\nThe last line is: \"I see food differently. \"The tagline for this campaign is <strong>Sea Food Differently. </strong> I think this is tagline writing at its best: clever, play on words, and RELEVANT. They are saying that Red Lobster does seafood differently (presumably better) than other restaurants. Perfect.\n\nCompare that to Salonpas. Salonpas, which has a completely weird name that makes me think of a hair salon, is a pain relief patch. They are running this spot on TV right now:\n\n[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eX4WVN4YN0Q&amp;w=560&amp;h=349]\n\nThe tagline is: \"Nothing\'s been proven to beat the relief.\"\n\nWhat does that mean? It is saying that nothing is proven to provide relief--which, I am pretty sure, is not the message they intended.\n\nSome taglines make you scratch your head, some don\'t make you think at all, and some, the ones that work, make you think.','A tagline that works','','publish','open','open','','a-tag-line-that-works','','','2011-08-10 10:45:59','2011-08-10 15:45:59','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1245',0,'post','',0),
(1408,4,'2011-08-11 08:43:24','2011-08-11 13:43:24','Increasingly, I am seeing articles out there about measuring the Return on Investment (ROI)/Return on Engagement (ROE) in social media.  This morning, I read an article that went so far as to show you how to calculate the dollar figures of investment and the projected value of any customers you may get from your blog.\n\nThe thing is this: what are you using social media to accomplish? Without knowing the answer to that, there is no measurement available. If you are indeed using your blog simply to generate sales, it is easy to calculate if you are getting a decent ROI.\n\nHowever (you knew this was coming), using social media can help you/your business accomplish many goals, such as:\n<ul>\n	<li>Thought leadership</li>\n	<li>Image/branding</li>\n	<li>Name recognition</li>\n	<li>Networking (as in actually meeting other people)</li>\n</ul>\nThese are not so easily measured in numbers and certainly not in dollars, and yet they all have <span style=\"text-decoration:underline;\">value</span>.\n\nMy conclusion is that you should not waste your time trying to measure your ROI/ROE but instead ask yourself if your social media use is generating value for you. If you are spending hours and hours a day on social networks and haven\'t made one solitary connection, it is clear that there is no value for you. If you have made connections, improved your image, heightened your name recognition, perhaps that is the value you seek.\n\nWhat are your thoughts? What makes you use social media for business purposes?','Some thoughts on the ROI/ROE of social media','','publish','open','open','','some-thoughts-on-the-roiroe-of-social-media','','','2011-08-11 08:43:24','2011-08-11 13:43:24','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1249',0,'post','',0),
(1409,4,'2011-08-12 07:00:46','2011-08-12 12:00:46','Social media is about connecting with people on a more intimate and individual level than mass media. In the past, companies spoke at their audiences through advertisements and other marketing forms. Now, companies can INTERACT with their audiences, in fact making communications more of a two-way phenomenon.\n\nWith that in mind, the closest comparison to social media is in-person networking. I wonder how many companies calculate the ROI of sending a company representative to a networking event. If the person makes ten connections but no sales is that considered bad ROI?\n\nNetworking, and social media, is about building connections. There may or may not be a dollar value that can be attached to those connections.\n\nThoughts?','And another thought on social media ROI','','publish','open','open','','and-another-thought-on-social-media-roi','','','2011-08-12 07:00:46','2011-08-12 12:00:46','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1252',0,'post','',0),
(1410,4,'2011-08-15 14:30:44','2011-08-15 19:30:44','One would hope anyway....\n\nYou know the feeling of having something just fall into your lap? It\'s pretty sweet to get work/clients/customers \"out of the clear blue sky.\" But, the thing is, they aren\'t just dropping in from outer space like ET. No, they are there because of your past performance.\n\nIf you have done good work in the past, you have past performance to back you up. If, on the other hand, you have done shoddy work in the past, your past performance will be an obstacle. Either way, your past can make stuff fall out of the clear blue sky--or not.\n\nFor marketing purposes, nothing is quite as powerful as word-of-mouth or referrals. If a trusted source gives you a name of say, a carpenter, you are very likely to contact that person. That person has been \"cleared.\" If you call the carpenter to come fix your broken bannister, you are not contacting him out of the clear blue sky. You asked around and found that someone recommended this particular carpenter.  For the carpenter, who may have been sitting back that particular day, it felt like he got business fairly easily. He didn\'t. He earned it, right?\n\nYour past performance can help you earn new business--and it can help keep business away.\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Nothing falls out of the clear blue sky','','publish','open','open','','nothing-falls-out-of-the-clear-blue-sky','','','2011-08-15 14:30:44','2011-08-15 19:30:44','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1254',0,'post','',0),
(1411,4,'2011-08-17 11:49:11','2011-08-17 16:49:11','Twitter is not for everybody because it takes some time and skill to use it to its full effect.  Since there are so many conversations and so much information being shared, its easy to get lost and not see any usefulness.\n\n<strong>First, define what you want from Twitter.</strong> Do you want to follow like minded people? Are you a news junkie and want the latest breaking news? Do you want to get your name out there?\n\nOnce you have defined what you want, you can then choose to be a \"lurker\" or a participant. Lurkers just listen and gather information without adding anything to the conversation. They generally don\'t start conversations nor share ideas.  Participants are more active--choosing to share links, engage in conversations, re-tweet content.\n\nObviously, you will get more in the way of real connection by participating actively.\n\n<strong>Second, understand how Twitter works. </strong> Twitter is real time conversation. People are talking to each other right now. And they are talking to many people. Sometimes, newbies just respond to a question someone has posted hours ago, without any reference to the original question. That is confusing.\n\n<strong>Third, get a Twitter client like Tweetdeck or Hootsuite</strong>. It is far easier to see what is going on using a Twitter client than it is to use the Twitter web interface. You can see your @ responses (responses that mention you) and you can create specialized feeds for different subjects or groups of people.\n\n<strong>Fourth, monitor Twitter for @ responses or for Tweets mentioning your name or product.</strong> There is nothing worse than lack of response or super delayed response. I posted something five months ago and someone is just getting back to me. That is not timely...and it shows a complete lack of understanding on how to use Twitter.\n\n<strong>Fifth, understand and use hashtags wisely</strong>. Hashtags that define a topic are useful when conducting searches or grouping tweets into one heading. Some people love to make up hashtags and use many of them on a single tweet. I say choose one that encompasses the topic, if you want to have a greater presence around that tweet.\n\n<strong>Sixth, interact!</strong> If you have chosen to participate in Twitter, make sure you are interacting with other people. If you see something that is interesting, re-tweet it. Answer people\'s questions, comment on their posts.\n\n<strong>Seventh, don\'t just sell, sell, sell or self-promote.</strong> Nobody wants to see a sales message all the time or your bragging. Twitter allows you to unfollow people quite easily.\n\nThis is not the Twitter Bible. I am sure there are other things to keep in mind...what would you add?\n\n&nbsp;','How to be a better Twitter user','','publish','open','open','','how-to-be-a-better-twitter-user','','','2011-08-17 11:49:11','2011-08-17 16:49:11','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1256',0,'post','',0),
(1412,4,'2011-08-18 10:15:30','2011-08-18 15:15:30','There should be no doubt that a company\'s customer service plays a huge role in marketing. Put bluntly, if a company has poor customer service, there will be fewer customers at the end of the day. The only exception to this rule is with monopolies like power and telephone companies, which often provide bad service but customers are forced to remain with them as they cannot take their business elsewhere.\n\nLet me give you a personal example. My website is currently hosted at Mediatemple. I have had hosting there since 2004. Off and on during the past seven years, I have had email retrieval issues among other problems.  This past Friday, I noticed my Outlook was not able to access my email. It happened again on Monday, at which point I opened a support request with Mediatemple online. I have learned, through negative interactions in the past, that calling the 1-800 number results in long waits and unhelpful personnel.\n\nAfter a few hours, I had received no response, so I tweeted it out. Mediatemple responds immediately to tweets. I did not get a response from the support request until 24 hours later. It told me I should check my email settings. I did what they suggested, and the problem persisted. Mind you, I had no problem accessing my other email on the same Outlook, using the same ISP.  In my mind, the problem was clearly on Mediatemple\'s side.  At Mediatemple, they refused to believe my claims as a customer, or accept that there could be an issue on their end. The couple of emails/tweets that followed told me to call customer service to troubleshoot my settings. Again, my settings had never been changed and the Outlook was working just fine with my other account.\n\nClearly, to Mediatemple, it is easier to shift the blame to the customer than to check their service. This has happened many times before (once, I was actually told when my website was down, that I had \"broken\" it...I wouldn\'t know how to do that). Well, enough is enough. Since I am going to relaunch my website in the next few days, I am taking my hosting elsewhere. Customer service is the reason.\n\nCustomer service can play a tremendous role in keeping customers happy and COMING back for more. Nordstrom\'s is well known for excellent customer service, and in fact, it is its key differentiating factor. An article in <a href=\"http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2011-08-11/nordstrom-founding-family-s-customer-service-leaves-saks-in-wake.html\" target=\"_blank\">Bloomberg Businessweek </a>claims that:\n<blockquote>For the most part, the Nordstroms have succeeded by making customer service the good they’re really selling, say industry observers. Though many retailers embrace “customer centricity,” a fancy term for putting the customer first, few equal Nordstrom, which routinely ranks in the top three on Luxury Institute surveys that measure customer satisfaction.</blockquote>\nRead that again: <strong>customer service is the good that Nordstrom\'s is selling.</strong> Not the clothes or the jewelry. The SERVICE. And it has made the company GROW.\n\nIf companies spends lots of money on marketing materials, advertising and public relations but neglect their customer service, the marketing efforts will be for naught.\n\n&nbsp;','Customer service IS marketing','','publish','open','open','','customer-service-is-marketing','','','2011-08-18 10:15:30','2011-08-18 15:15:30','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1259',0,'post','',1),
(1413,4,'2011-08-23 09:21:55','2011-08-23 14:21:55','Many companies devote almost all of their communications/marketing resources to EXTERNAL communications, that is, the customer facing communications like ads, press releases, and so forth.  It seems like far fewer companies take the time to invest in INTERNAL communications.\n\nInternal communications are the information exchanges you have with your internal audiences: your staff, board of directors, volunteers and any other group internally affiliated with your organization.  Many companies communicate company news to employees via internal email or a staff meeting. There is nothing wrong with that, but perhaps you could do more.\n\nAn internal communications program should be:\n\n<strong>Timely.</strong> Your staff should never find out about a company decision from outside sources.\n\n<strong>Complete.</strong> Provide all the necessary details--more than you would provide the media.\n\n<strong>Regular.</strong> Even if you have no major announcements, you should communicate with your internal audiences on a regular basis.\n\nWhat kind of information should you share? Here are some ideas:\n<ul>\n	<li>Staff changes and promotions--including dismissals</li>\n	<li>Company earnings and market reports</li>\n	<li>Competitive information</li>\n	<li>Any external communications: press releases, ads, blog posts</li>\n	<li>News reports on your organization</li>\n	<li>News reports on your field</li>\n	<li>Calendar events</li>\n	<li>Policies--including any changes</li>\n</ul>\nWhen your internal audiences know less about your organization that the general public you risk a downgrade in morale. Having a good internal communications program will keep your internal audiences informed.\n\nIf you do have an internal communications program, what is your preferred form of communication? If not, why not?\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Do you have an internal communications program?','','publish','open','open','','do-you-have-an-internal-communications-program','','','2011-08-23 09:21:55','2011-08-23 14:21:55','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1267',0,'post','',0),
(1414,4,'2011-08-24 08:54:03','2011-08-24 13:54:03','How do you find a vendor? It is important to know this because it can inform marketing. Depending on what I am looking for, I used Google, LinkedIn, listing services, reviews or Twitter. I am sure you use other tools (and would appreciate your insights in the comments).\n\nFor example, yesterday I was searching for a freelance editor.  I used Google, and found (remarkably) few individuals had websites, whether I searched for \"DC freelance editor\" or \"Maryland freelance editor.\" I did find a couple, and one of them, had a very nice website and clearly defined rates. I searched for her on LinkedIn, and discovered that her background was very technical--no editorial. Made me think twice about her skill set. Another one had very strong writing credentials, but absolutely no social media (and she explained she is not into it). It made me question whether she gets it. I also Tweeted it out, and got a response from a colleague (good word of mouth).  But, no freelance editors even picked up on it. Obviously, not using Twitter search to find business.\n\nTool: Google\n\nMarketing lesson: Websites are important. Google profiles are helpful. If you are in an industry that is reviewed, having positive reviews is important since Google finds results from Yelp and others.\n\nTool: LinkedIn\n\nMarketing lesson: If you aren\'t on LinkedIn, you are at a disadvantage. The quality of your profile (both for individuals and companies) is important. For individuals, testimonials, number of connections and your background do matter. Don\'t make stuff up, but bone up what is there.\n\nTool: Twitter (or other social media sites)\n\nMarketing lesson: How you present yourself, and even if you are on social media, says a lot. What does your Twitter profile, stream, followers say about your business or you?\n\nTool:  Printed materials (brochures, business cards, etc.)\n\nMarketing lesson: How your marketing materials look (are they printed on quality stock, are they black/white or color, do they look professionally designed),  can give an immediate impression. How your marketing materials read--what information you provide--can seal the deal.\n\nTool:  Using the telephone\n\nMarketing lesson: Are you reachable? How do you/your company answer the phone? Do you even answer the phone? Some people will want to talk to someone in real time.\n\n&nbsp;\n\nTool: Word of mouth\n\nMarketing lesson: Each and every customer who has a positive interaction with you can be an ambassador, and each and every customer who has a negative impression can be a detractor. Watch your customer interactions. Improve your customer service.\n\n<strong>The bottom line is that if you are marketing yourself/your company, you have to understand how people find you, and how they decide whether to contact you or not.</strong>\n\nYour thoughts? What makes you decide on a vendor? How do you find a vendor?','Finding a vendor','','publish','open','open','','finding-a-vendor','','','2011-08-24 08:54:03','2011-08-24 13:54:03','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1270',0,'post','',0),
(1415,4,'2011-08-25 09:16:52','2011-08-25 14:16:52','After three years and eight months blogging at Wordpress.com, Caffeinated Views is moving! I am now going to host the blog right on my website at www.deborahbrody.com. The change-over is happening this weekend.\n\nI am very excited to finally be able to integrate this blog into my website, although it does mean some growing pains, since those of you who subscribe will have to change your feeds. The blog will also lose its title and look a bit different. However, I will keep providing the same type of insights into marketing communications, and much appreciate your readership.\n\nThe new feed will be found here as of next week.  Please update your readers.\n\n<a href=\"http://deborahbrody.com/blog/feed/rss\" target=\"_blank\">http://deborahbrody.com/blog/feed/rss/</a>\n\nI would love your feedback on the new website/blog.\n\nAnd many thanks for sticking with me!','Blog is moving...please update your RSS feeds','','publish','open','open','','blog-is-moving-please-update-your-rss-feeds','','','2011-08-25 09:16:52','2011-08-25 14:16:52','',0,'http://cuppamarcomm.wordpress.com/?p=1272',0,'post','',0),
(1418,4,'2011-08-29 15:22:47','2011-08-29 15:22:47','If you need to do anything when preparing any type of communications (printed, online, even spoken), you need to get your facts straight.\n\nSeems fairly obvious, but as usual, it escapes many.\n\nLet me give you an example. Last week I received a check from a foreign bank, drawn from a U.S. dollar account. I have received these before (I do have clients in other countries). I went to Bank of America to deposit it. I was told that it would take up to four months to clear. FOUR months. (This was after lots of back and forth with a clueless teller and her remarkably unfriendly supervisor). I told them time and again that this was a US DOLLAR check--no exchange rate necessary.  It didn\'t matter--they thought they had their facts straight, and did not leave me any option but to take the check elsewhere.\n\nI went to my other bank. They were MUCH friendlier there, and seemed to understand what I was saying. They went ahead and deposited the check, warning that it would take up to six weeks to clear.  And that I would be charged a fee. Because of the exchange rate. But, I said, this is a check drawn in US DOLLARS.  There should be no exchange of any sort. Bottom line, the check cleared immediately. I have not yet been charged a fee. Seems like the bank teller and her supervisor at the second bank did not have their facts straight.\n\nYou have to know what you are talking about plain and simple. Sure you can make mistakes or have to ask someone if you don\'t know, but it is inexcusable to give customers','Getting your facts straight','','inherit','open','open','','1417-revision','','','2011-08-29 15:22:47','2011-08-29 15:22:47','',1417,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/1417-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1431,4,'2011-09-09 14:48:54','2011-09-09 14:48:54','My last post suggested you have a strong subject line in your email, especially when you are reaching out to potential clients. You have to give them a reason to care.\r\n\r\nThis advice extends to your Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook posts and your marketing in general.  If you are trying to get people to do something (read your post, buy your product/service, donate), you MUST give those people a reason to care. You can\'t just say \"look at me.\"\r\n\r\n<strong>First, ask yourself what you want your potential client or customer to do. Then ask yourself, what would make the potential client/customer interested in doing what I ask? </strong>\r\n\r\nSo instead of saying: Donate $$ to Good Cause X say Donate $$ to Good Cause so we can help feed the starving in your city.  Or be more creative: Hundreds are suffering from malnutrition--giving to Good Cause will help.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Give them a reason to care','','publish','open','open','','give-them-a-reason-to-care','','','2011-09-09 14:48:54','2011-09-09 14:48:54','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/?p=1431',0,'post','',0),
(1420,4,'2011-09-01 13:02:01','2011-09-01 13:02:01','If you are in the marketing business, a pretty big chunk of your time is probably spent convincing people about something. If you are in sales, you are probably convincing them to try your product. If you are in advertising, you are doing the same on a larger scale. On the other side--the internal side--you are also trying to convince. You may be trying to persuade your client to embark on a public relations campaign or back a new creative direction.\r\n\r\nSometimes this works, and sometimes it doesn\'t. Some people resist change but can change if they see a good reason. Some people just resist change and no amount of reasoning is going to work.\r\n\r\nI have a client that refuses--flat out--to consider social media. The higher-ups at the company will not budget for it. They see no value to brand and image building. Their only criteria is bottom line.  And in marketing communications we know that there can\'t be a direct correlation between your communications efforts and the bottom line. If you are trying to create an image, the costs could be higher up front and the payoff later. To think that you will spend $100  in advertising to bring in $100 in business is wrong.  It could happen, and in fact you could spend $100 and bring in several times more in business. But it may not happen immediately.\r\n\r\nSome people won\'t change. If what you are offering/advising does not fit with their worldview, they won\'t even consider it. In this case, just give up.  Don\'t spend energy and ideas trying to convince someone who doesn\'t want to be convinced.','Some people won\'t change','','publish','open','open','','some-people-wont-change','','','2011-09-01 13:02:01','2011-09-01 13:02:01','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/?p=1420',0,'post','',0),
(1421,4,'2011-09-01 13:01:54','2011-09-01 13:01:54','If you are in the marketing business, a pretty big chunk of your time is probably spent convincing people about something. If you are in sales, you are probably convincing them to try your product. If you are in advertising, you are doing the same on a larger scale. On the other side--the internal side--you are also trying to convince. You may be trying to persuade your client to embark on a public relations campaign or back a new creative direction.\n\nSometimes this works, and sometimes it doesn\'t. Some people resist change but can change if they see a good reason. Some people just resist change and no amount of reasoning is going to work.\n\nI have a client that refuses--flat out--to consider social media. The higher-ups at the company will not budget for it. They see no value to brand and image building. Their only criteria is bottom line.  And in marketing communications we know that there can\'t be a direct correlation between your communications efforts and the bottom line. If you are trying to create an image, the costs could be higher up front and the payoff later. To think that you will spend $100  in advertising to bring in $100 in business is wrong.  It could happen, and in fact you could spend $100 and bring in several times more in business. But it may not happen immediately.\n\nSome people won\'t change. If what you are offering/advising does not fit with their worldview, they won\'t even consider it. In this case, just give up.  Don\'t spend energy and ideas trying to convince someone who doesn\'t want to be convinced.','Some people won\'t change','','inherit','open','open','','1420-revision','','','2011-09-01 13:01:54','2011-09-01 13:01:54','',1420,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/09/1420-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1422,4,'2011-09-02 14:31:52','2011-09-02 14:31:52','How long until we don\'t have printed newspapers any more? Ten years? Five? Fewer?  I am not sure but a look at some headlines on today\'s <a href=\"http://www.mediabistro.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Mediabistro.com</a> home page give us some clues:\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.mediabistro.com/fishbowlla/los-angeles-times-raises-newsstand-price_b37673\" target=\"_blank\">LA Times to raise newsstand price</a> (new cost will be 75 cents for daily)\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.mediabistro.com/fishbowldc/wapo-to-shutter-nearly-all-regional-bureaus_b49461\" target=\"_blank\">Washington Post to shut all regional bureaus</a> (except for Richmond and Annapolis, because of the local angle needs)\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.mediabistro.com/10000words/what-happens-when-a-city-loses-its-newspaper_b6503\" target=\"_blank\">Oakland, CA loses its daily newspaper</a> (joining several other cities in the same situation)\r\n\r\nAnd most ominous of all:\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.marketwatch.com/story/newspaper-ad-spending-down-7-in-2q-2011-09-01?link=MW_home_latest_news\" target=\"_blank\">Newspaper Ad Spending Down 7% in 2Q</a>\r\n\r\nThe trend is clear: fewer people are buying newspapers, and fewer readers means less enticement for advertisers, which means less ad revenue. With less per-issue/subscription revenue and ad revenue, newspapers are increasing prices to subscribers/single-issue buyers or shutting down altogether. Some, like the New York Times, are embracing the online world and charging for access. I think this (unfortunately) is where all newspapers that want to remain viable will head. But then, what will they be called?\r\n\r\nLet me know what you think. If you are heading out for a nice long weekend, enjoy! Happy Labor Day to all!\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Bad news for newspapers','','publish','open','open','','bad-news-for-newspapers','','','2011-09-02 14:31:52','2011-09-02 14:31:52','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/?p=1422',0,'post','',1),
(1423,4,'2011-09-02 14:30:31','2011-09-02 14:30:31','How long until we don\'t have printed newspapers any more? Ten years? Five? Fewer?  I am not sure but a look at some headlines on today\'s <a href=\"http://www.mediabistro.com/\" target=\"_blank\">Mediabistro.com</a> home page give us some clues:\n\n<a href=\"http://www.mediabistro.com/fishbowlla/los-angeles-times-raises-newsstand-price_b37673\" target=\"_blank\">LA Times to raise newsstand price</a> (new cost will be 75 cents for daily)\n\n<a href=\"http://www.mediabistro.com/fishbowldc/wapo-to-shutter-nearly-all-regional-bureaus_b49461\" target=\"_blank\">Washington Post to shut all regional bureaus</a> (except for Richmond and Annapolis, because of the local angle needs)\n\n<a href=\"http://www.mediabistro.com/10000words/what-happens-when-a-city-loses-its-newspaper_b6503\" target=\"_blank\">Oakland, CA loses its daily newspaper</a> (joining several other cities in the same situation)\n\nAnd most ominous of all:\n\n<a href=\"http://www.marketwatch.com/story/newspaper-ad-spending-down-7-in-2q-2011-09-01?link=MW_home_latest_news\" target=\"_blank\">Newspaper Ad Spending Down 7% in 2Q</a>\n\nThe trend is clear: fewer people are buying newspapers, and fewer readers means less enticement for advertisers, which means less ad revenue. With less per-issue/subscription revenue and ad revenue, newspapers are increasing prices to subscribers/single-issue buyers or shutting down altogether. Some, like the New York Times, are embracing the online world and charging for access. I think this (unfortunately) is where all newspapers that want to remain viable will head. But then, what will they be called?\n\nLet me know what you think. If you are heading out for a nice long weekend, enjoy! Happy Labor Day to all!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Bad news for newspapers','','inherit','open','open','','1422-revision','','','2011-09-02 14:30:31','2011-09-02 14:30:31','',1422,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/09/1422-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1425,4,'2011-09-06 15:31:07','2011-09-06 15:31:07','Do you have the kind of Twitter followers you want? Are you getting the information you want and need from your Twitter stream? If the answer is no, I have one question for you to consider before you post your next Tweet:\n\n<strong>Who cares about what I am about to post?</strong>\n\nDo your friends care? Your mother? Your potential clients? Your colleagues?\n\nNot everything you want to say has to be said on social media. If you want to vent about your new dishwasher, why not call a neighbor? If you want to make brunch plans--why not text your friends?','One question to improve your Twitter stream','','inherit','open','open','','1424-revision','','','2011-09-06 15:31:07','2011-09-06 15:31:07','',1424,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/09/1424-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1426,4,'2011-09-07 15:18:44','2011-09-07 15:18:44','Email marketing is alive and well, in spite of all the doomsayers who say email is dead. Most people use email to communicate, and generally check their email multiple times a day.\r\n\r\nWe all get tons of emails--notifications, calendar events, special discounts, sales pitches and perhaps a few personal notes too. What makes you open (let alone read) an email. There are a few scenarios:\r\n\r\n<strong>Known sender: </strong>We\'ll open something if we know who is sending it (your aunt Karen or Groupon, for example) Of course, spammers have exploited this to their advantage by fabricating the sent address.\r\n\r\n<strong>Subject line: </strong>We\'ll open something if it sounds relevant or interesting, like \"Special Event to Benefit (name of charity you care about) Next Week).\r\n\r\nIdeally, your emails should have both to ENSURE the are opened. If you don\'t have one, you have to work on the other. Your mother can send you an email with the subject line \"Hi,\" but if you are someone the recipient does not know your subject line MUST be descriptive.\r\n\r\nI received an email this morning from someone I do not know, which had the subject line \"meeting request.\" Why should I open that? I don\'t know the person sending it and the subject tells me nothing. If this person had been more descriptive and said \"(Company name) requesting meeting to discuss (product/service/whatever)\" wouldn\'t that have made it clear what the email was about?\r\n\r\n<strong>Think about your readers...do they know you well enough to care about your emails? If not, give them a good reason!</strong>\r\n\r\nUPDATE: Check out <a href=\"http://www.prdaily.com/Main/Articles/9436.aspx\" target=\"_blank\">this infographic</a> about email, which provides some good facts/figures including the fact that email continues to GROW.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Are your emails getting read?','','publish','open','open','','are-your-emails-getting-read','','','2011-09-07 19:35:04','2011-09-07 19:35:04','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/?p=1426',0,'post','',0),
(1427,4,'2011-09-07 15:18:02','2011-09-07 15:18:02','Email marketing is alive and well, in spite of all the doomsayers who say email is dead. Most people use email to communicate, and generally check their email multiple times a day.\n\nWe all get tons of emails--notifications, calendar events, special discounts, sales pitches and perhaps a few personal notes too. What makes you open (let alone read) an email. There are a few scenarios:\n\n<strong>Known sender: </strong>We\'ll open something if we know who is sending it (your aunt Karen or Groupon, for example) Of course, spammers have exploited this to their advantage by fabricating the sent address.\n\n<strong>Subject line: </strong>We\'ll open something if it sounds relevant or interesting, like \"Special Event to Benefit (name of charity you care about) Next Week).\n\nIdeally, your emails should have both to ENSURE the are opened. If you don\'t have one, you have to work on the other. Your mother can send you an email with the subject line \"Hi,\" but if you are someone the recipient does not know your subject line MUST be descriptive.\n\nI received an email this morning from someone I do not know, which had the subject line \"meeting request.\" Why should I open that? I don\'t know the person sending it and the subject tells me nothing. If this person had been more descriptive and said \"(Company name) requesting meeting to discuss (product/service/whatever)\" wouldn\'t that have made it clear what the email was about?\n\nThink about your readers...do they know you well enough to care about your emails? If not, give them a good reason!\n\n&nbsp;\n\n&nbsp;','Are your emails getting read?','','inherit','open','open','','1426-revision','','','2011-09-07 15:18:02','2011-09-07 15:18:02','',1426,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/09/1426-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1428,4,'2011-09-07 19:34:53','2011-09-07 19:34:53','Email marketing is alive and well, in spite of all the doomsayers who say email is dead. Most people use email to communicate, and generally check their email multiple times a day.\n\nWe all get tons of emails--notifications, calendar events, special discounts, sales pitches and perhaps a few personal notes too. What makes you open (let alone read) an email. There are a few scenarios:\n\n<strong>Known sender: </strong>We\'ll open something if we know who is sending it (your aunt Karen or Groupon, for example) Of course, spammers have exploited this to their advantage by fabricating the sent address.\n\n<strong>Subject line: </strong>We\'ll open something if it sounds relevant or interesting, like \"Special Event to Benefit (name of charity you care about) Next Week).\n\nIdeally, your emails should have both to ENSURE the are opened. If you don\'t have one, you have to work on the other. Your mother can send you an email with the subject line \"Hi,\" but if you are someone the recipient does not know your subject line MUST be descriptive.\n\nI received an email this morning from someone I do not know, which had the subject line \"meeting request.\" Why should I open that? I don\'t know the person sending it and the subject tells me nothing. If this person had been more descriptive and said \"(Company name) requesting meeting to discuss (product/service/whatever)\" wouldn\'t that have made it clear what the email was about?\n\n<strong>Think about your readers...do they know you well enough to care about your emails? If not, give them a good reason!</strong>\n\nUPDATE: Check out this infographic about email, which provides some good facts/figures including the fact that email continues to GROW.\n\n&nbsp;','Are your emails getting read?','','inherit','open','open','','1426-autosave','','','2011-09-07 19:34:53','2011-09-07 19:34:53','',1426,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/09/1426-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),
(1429,4,'2011-09-07 15:18:44','2011-09-07 15:18:44','Email marketing is alive and well, in spite of all the doomsayers who say email is dead. Most people use email to communicate, and generally check their email multiple times a day.\r\n\r\nWe all get tons of emails--notifications, calendar events, special discounts, sales pitches and perhaps a few personal notes too. What makes you open (let alone read) an email. There are a few scenarios:\r\n\r\n<strong>Known sender: </strong>We\'ll open something if we know who is sending it (your aunt Karen or Groupon, for example) Of course, spammers have exploited this to their advantage by fabricating the sent address.\r\n\r\n<strong>Subject line: </strong>We\'ll open something if it sounds relevant or interesting, like \"Special Event to Benefit (name of charity you care about) Next Week).\r\n\r\nIdeally, your emails should have both to ENSURE the are opened. If you don\'t have one, you have to work on the other. Your mother can send you an email with the subject line \"Hi,\" but if you are someone the recipient does not know your subject line MUST be descriptive.\r\n\r\nI received an email this morning from someone I do not know, which had the subject line \"meeting request.\" Why should I open that? I don\'t know the person sending it and the subject tells me nothing. If this person had been more descriptive and said \"(Company name) requesting meeting to discuss (product/service/whatever)\" wouldn\'t that have made it clear what the email was about?\r\n\r\n<strong>Think about your readers...do they know you well enough to care about your emails? If not, give them a good reason!</strong>\r\n\r\n&nbsp;\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Are your emails getting read?','','inherit','open','open','','1426-revision-2','','','2011-09-07 15:18:44','2011-09-07 15:18:44','',1426,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/09/1426-revision-2/',0,'revision','',0),
(1430,4,'2011-08-03 07:12:04','2011-08-03 07:12:04','<table class=\"homemain\">\r\n<tr>\r\n<td style=\"width: 50%;\"> \r\n<table class=\"homeleft\">\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<h4>How We Can Help</h4>\r\n<p>If you\'re a small to medium size business or a non-profit organization seeking to communicate effectively with your target audience, you\'ve come to the right place.</p>\r\n<p>At Deborah Brody Marketing Communications, you\'ll work directly with an experienced marketing professional offering an integrated approach to marketing communications.</p>\r\n<p>Together, we will create, recreate or refine your marketing materials (both in English and in Spanish). Whether you want to develop a brochure, need public relations assistance, or need to create a user-friendly website, we\'ll find the most effective solution.</p> \r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</table>\r\n</td>\r\n<td> \r\n<table class=\"homeright\">\r\n<tr>\r\n<td>\r\n<h4>Why Chose DBMC</h4>\r\n<p>Deborah Brody Marketing Communications is a reliable, creative, professional and knowledgeable marketing partner.</p>\r\n<p><b>You\'ll find that our services</b> are an affordable alternative to the traditional advertising or public relations agency.</p>\r\n<p><b>You won\'t pay agency prices</b> and you won\'t have to deal with inexperienced staff.</p>\r\n<p>No matter if you need a single writer on a freelance basis, or need to put together a communications team, we can work with you.</p>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</table>\r\n</td>\r\n</tr>\r\n</table>\r\n<div id=\"contacthome\"><a href=\"contact\" style=\"color:#ffffff; font-weight:bold;\">Contact us</a> today to learn how to improve your marketing and communications.</div>','Home','','inherit','open','open','','2-revision-v1','','','2011-08-03 07:12:04','2011-08-03 07:12:04','',2,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/08/2-revision-24/',0,'revision','',0),
(1432,4,'2011-09-09 14:48:42','2011-09-09 14:48:42','My last post suggested you have a strong subject line in your email, especially when you are reaching out to potential clients. You have to give them a reason to care.\n\nThis advice extends to your Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook posts and your marketing in general.  If you are trying to get people to do something (read your post, buy your product/service, donate), you MUST give those people a reason to care. You can\'t just say \"look at me.\"\n\n<strong>First, ask yourself what you want your potential client or customer to do. Then ask yourself, what would make the potential client/customer interested in doing what I ask? </strong>\n\nSo instead of saying: Donate $$ to Good Cause X say Donate $$ to Good Cause so we can help feed the starving in your city.  Or be more creative: Hundreds are suffering from malnutrition--giving to Good Cause will help.\n\n&nbsp;','Give them a reason to care','','inherit','open','open','','1431-revision','','','2011-09-09 14:48:42','2011-09-09 14:48:42','',1431,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/09/1431-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1436,4,'2011-09-22 13:01:14','2011-09-22 13:01:14','Can you complete this line:\r\n\r\nThe main thing my customers/clients want from me is ....\r\n\r\nYou should, of course, be able to answer this. If you are a toy manufacturer, for example, your line could be \"the main thing my customers want from me is safety...parents won\'t buy unsafe toys for their kids.\"\r\n\r\nOnce you can answer this question, you can proceed with marketing.\r\n\r\nThis week, Netflix made an announcement that it would spin off its DVD business under a new name (Qwikster).  This came at the heels of a subscriber loss due in part to the 60% increase in prices announced earlier. Not only that, but Netflix\' stock price has fallen.\r\n\r\nApparently, Netflix failed to ask itself what its customers wanted. Ignoring their loyal fan base (as <a href=\"http://blogs.hbr.org/cs/2011/09/how_netflix_lost_its_evangelis.html\" target=\"_blank\">this great article </a>in the Harvard Business Review blog discusses) is probably why there has been such an uproar.\r\n\r\nWhat do Netflix customers want? Do they want more streaming video or do they want to keep getting  DVDs in the mail? Do they want an easy, inexpensive way to get movies fast?\r\n\r\nNetflix\' CEO wants to be in the streaming business, not in the DVD business. But perhaps that is not what his customers want.  Perhaps his customers do not like the name Qwikster. Perhaps he didn\'t ASK his customers first. Sure, companies have to make decisions based on financials etc, but part of the input should include some market research, some customer feedback.  Netflix did not ask, and now they know--customers want convenience and price stability from Netflix.\r\n\r\nWhat do your customers want? How will you find out?','What do your customers want?','','publish','open','open','','what-do-your-customers-want','','','2011-09-22 13:01:14','2011-09-22 13:01:14','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/?p=1436',0,'post','',0),
(1434,4,'2011-09-12 18:36:02','0000-00-00 00:00:00','You\'ve probably heard about Carol Bartz, recently fired as CEO of Yahoo! Bartz was known as a tough woman who did not polish her language, going so far as to say that Yahoo\'s board had screwed her over (except she did not say screw).\r\n\r\n<a href=\"http://www.cnn.com/2011/09/12/living/carol-bartz-fired-from-yahoo/index.html?hpt=hp_t2\" target=\"_blank\">CNN has an article </a>discussing whether Bartz\' language was appropriate--more so in the context of what is perceived as appropriate for women versus men. Apparently, women are judged more harshly than men if they use curse words on the job.\r\n\r\nIn my opinion, it is not a male versus female thing. It is an appropriate versus inappropriate thing. It is absolutely not appropriate to use curse words in business communication and in public fora. I am not saying you should not curse--I do all the time--I just don\'t do it in a business communication (this blog for instance) or in public (like Twitter for instance).  You would not load a press release with curse words, would you? Would you run into a store, full of people you don\'t know, and curse at the top of your lungs? I hope not.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','What the $#%^&?','','draft','open','open','','','','','2011-09-12 18:36:02','2011-09-12 18:36:02','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/?p=1434',0,'post','',0),
(1435,4,'2011-09-12 18:34:45','2011-09-12 18:34:45','You\'ve probably heard about Carol Bartz, recently fired as CEO of Yahoo! Bartz was known as a tough woman who did not polish her language, going so far as to say that Yahoo\'s board had screwed her over (except she did not say screw).\n\nCNN has an article discussing whether Bartz\' language was appropriate--more so in the context of what is perceived as appropriate for women versus men. Apparently, women are judged more harshly than men if they use curse words on the job.\n\nIn my opinion, it is not a male versus female thing. It is an appropriate versus inappropriate thing. It is absolutely not appropriate to use curse words in business communication and in public fora. I am not saying you should not curse--I do all the time--I just don\'t do it in a business communication (this blog for instance) or in public (like Twitter for instance).  You would not load a press release with curse words, would you? Would you run into a store, full of people you don\'t know, and curse at the top of your lungs? I hope not.\n\n&nbsp;','What the $#%^&?','','inherit','open','open','','1434-revision','','','2011-09-12 18:34:45','2011-09-12 18:34:45','',1434,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/09/1434-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1437,4,'2011-09-22 13:00:33','2011-09-22 13:00:33','Can you complete this line:\n\nThe main thing my customers/clients want from me is ....\n\nYou should, of course, be able to answer this. If you are a toy manufacturer, for example, your line could be \"the main thing my customers want from me is safety...parents won\'t buy unsafe toys for their kids.\"\n\nOnce you can answer this question, you can proceed with marketing.\n\nThis week, Netflix made an announcement that it would spin off its DVD business under a new name (Qwikster).  This came at the heels of a subscriber loss due in part to the 60% increase in prices announced earlier. Not only that, but Netflix\' stock price has fallen.\n\nApparently, Netflix failed to ask itself what its customers wanted. Ignoring their loyal fan base (as <a href=\"http://blogs.hbr.org/cs/2011/09/how_netflix_lost_its_evangelis.html\" target=\"_blank\">this great article </a>in the Harvard Business Review blog discusses) is probably why there has been such an uproar.\n\nWhat do Netflix customers want? Do they want more streaming video or do they want to keep getting  DVDs in the mail? Do they want an easy, inexpensive way to get movies fast?\n\nNetflix\' CEO wants to be in the streaming business, not in the DVD business. But perhaps that is not what his customers want.  Perhaps his customers do not like the name Qwikster. Perhaps he didn\'t ASK his customers first. Sure, companies have to make decisions based on financials etc, but part of the input should include some market research, some customer feedback.  Netflix did not ask, and now they know--customers want convenience and price stability from Netflix.\n\nWhat do your customers want? How will you find out?','What do your customers want?','','inherit','open','open','','1436-revision','','','2011-09-22 13:00:33','2011-09-22 13:00:33','',1436,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/09/1436-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1442,4,'2011-10-06 17:35:55','2011-10-06 17:35:55','To quote a long ago mentor, Gad Almaliah (of blessed memory), the computer is just a tool. You have to know how to use it.  Gad was an artist and graphic designer who started his career when people still worked with blades and pens and glue. He learned the fundamentals of design and applied them whether using the old tools or the new.\r\n\r\nYou don\'t become a software engineer simply by owning a computer and you don\'t become a writer by having a pen. It sure helps to have the right tools, but you have to know how to use them to make them reach their full potential.\r\n\r\nAs you are probably aware, Steve Jobs died yesterday. I have seen a number of tributes to Jobs, focused on his stewardship of Apple and the Mac. Apparently, many people\'s lives have changed because they now have the IPad or the IPhone or a Mac on their desk.  However, I have to say that no matter how snazzy and cool your Apple product may be, it is not going to make you creative or smart. A designer may be able to do more with Macs, but he or she must know the fundamentals and have a vision and creativity. The Mac, without a human operator who has the capacity to do with it what he or she dreams, is just a machine or tool.\r\n\r\nTools alone are not enough. You must develop strategies. You should  encourage creativity and problem-solving. After all, the focus on the tool (for instance Twitter or a IPhone App) instead of the message will not help your communications campaign.\r\n\r\n&nbsp;','Don\'t focus on the tools','','publish','open','open','','dont-focus-on-the-tools','','','2011-10-06 17:35:55','2011-10-06 17:35:55','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/?p=1442',0,'post','',0),
(1439,4,'2011-09-26 12:40:27','2011-09-26 12:40:27','I logged on to my Facebook page to find the following message:\r\n<blockquote>Changes to How You Share Content on Your Page\r\n\r\nWe want you to connect with your fans in the most effective ways possible. That\'s why as of September 30th you\'ll no longer be able to automatically import posts from your website to your page notes. The best way to get people to interact with your content is to give them insight into the links you share on your Wall by adding personal comments and responding to feedback from fans.\r\n\r\nWe\'re focused on creating even better tools for pages - look for announcements soon.</blockquote>\r\nSomehow, I am not sure that making it harder for me to share my blog posts on Facebook will also make it more effective for me to connect with my \"fans. \" Why is Facebook telling me what is better? The answer is simple: Facebook wants me to spend money. Advertise the page to get more fans, and more clients.\r\n\r\nOver on Mashable, there is an article \"<a href=\"http://mashable.com/2011/09/22/facebooks-changes-marketers/?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Mashable+%28Mashable%29&amp;utm_content=Google+Reader\" target=\"_blank\">What Facebook\'s Changes Mean for Marketers.\" </a>Basically, the new Facebook changes will force marketers (businesses) to create a more interactive approach to the getting fans.  It will require more work and more dedication.\r\n\r\nFor small businesses, which are working on getting paying customers and using social media to amplify their reach, putting more work into ONE platform is nonsensical. Yes, Facebook has A LOT of users, but not all those users are your customers. If a business finds that its best base is coming from Facebook, then yes, it will be worth investing the extra time.\r\n\r\nI am not convinced that Facebook generates sales. It does helps create brand awareness and build image, which adds value.  Small businesses will have to decide how much more time they want to devote to Facebook, since it looks like it will require more time, more work and more strategy.\r\n\r\nYour thoughts?','Is Facebook becoming a nightmare for small business?','','publish','open','open','','is-facebook-becoming-a-nightmare-for-small-business','','','2011-09-26 12:40:27','2011-09-26 12:40:27','',0,'http://deborahbrody.com/?p=1439',0,'post','',3),
(1440,4,'2011-09-26 12:39:30','2011-09-26 12:39:30','I logged on to my Facebook page to find the following message:\n<blockquote>Changes to How You Share Content on Your Page\n\nWe want you to connect with your fans in the most effective ways possible. That\'s why as of September 30th you\'ll no longer be able to automatically import posts from your website to your page notes. The best way to get people to interact with your content is to give them insight into the links you share on your Wall by adding personal comments and responding to feedback from fans.\n\nWe\'re focused on creating even better tools for pages - look for announcements soon.</blockquote>\nSomehow, I am not sure that making it harder for me to share my blog posts on Facebook will also make it more effective for me to connect with my \"fans. \" Why is Facebook telling me what is better? The answer is simple: Facebook wants me to spend money. Advertise the page to get more fans, and more clients.\n\nOver on Mashable, there is an article \"<a href=\"http://mashable.com/2011/09/22/facebooks-changes-marketers/?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Mashable+%28Mashable%29&amp;utm_content=Google+Reader\" target=\"_blank\">What Facebook\'s Changes Mean for Marketers.\" </a>Basically, the new Facebook changes will force marketers (businesses) to create a more interactive approach to the getting fans.  It will require more work and more dedication.\n\nFor small businesses, which are working on getting paying customers and using social media to amplify their reach, putting more work into ONE platform is nonsensical. Yes, Facebook has A LOT of users, but not all those users are your customers. If a business finds that its best base is coming from Facebook, then yes, it will be worth investing the extra time.\n\nI am not convinced that Facebook generates sales. It does helps create brand awareness and build image, which adds value.  Small businesses will have to decide how much more time they want to devote to Facebook, since it looks like it will require more time, more work and more strategy, just to build their brand image, witho','Is Facebook becoming a nightmare for small business?','','inherit','open','open','','1439-revision','','','2011-09-26 12:39:30','2011-09-26 12:39:30','',1439,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/09/1439-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1441,4,'2011-10-06 17:23:38','2011-10-06 17:23:38','I logged on to my Facebook page to find the following message:\n<blockquote>Changes to How You Share Content on Your Page\n\nWe want you to connect with your fans in the most effective ways possible. That\'s why as of September 30th you\'ll no longer be able to automatically import posts from your website to your page notes. The best way to get people to interact with your content is to give them insight into the links you share on your Wall by adding personal comments and responding to feedback from fans.\n\nWe\'re focused on creating even better tools for pages - look for announcements soon.</blockquote>\nSomehow, I am not sure that making it harder for me to share my blog posts on Facebook will also make it more effective for me to connect with my \"fans. \" Why is Facebook telling me what is better? The answer is simple: Facebook wants me to spend money. Advertise the page to get more fans, and more clients.\n\nOver on Mashable, there is an article \"<a href=\"http://mashable.com/2011/09/22/facebooks-changes-marketers/?utm_source=feedburner&amp;utm_medium=feed&amp;utm_campaign=Feed%3A+Mashable+%28Mashable%29&amp;utm_content=Google+Reader\" target=\"_blank\">What Facebook\'s Changes Mean for Marketers.\" </a>Basically, the new Facebook changes will force marketers (businesses) to create a more interactive approach to the getting fans.  It will require more work and more dedication.\n\nFor small businesses, which are working on getting paying customers and using social media to amplify their reach, putting more work into ONE platform is nonsensical. Yes, Facebook has A LOT of users, but not all those users are your customers. If a business finds that its best base is coming from Facebook, then yes, it will be worth investing the extra time.\n\nI am not convinced that Facebook generates sales. It does helps create brand awareness and build image, which adds value.  Small businesses will have to decide how much more time they want to devote to Facebook, since it looks like it will require more time, more work and more strategy.\n\nYour thoughts?','Is Facebook becoming a nightmare for small business?','','inherit','open','open','','1439-autosave','','','2011-10-06 17:23:38','2011-10-06 17:23:38','',1439,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/09/1439-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),
(1443,4,'2011-10-06 17:35:05','2011-10-06 17:35:05','To quote a long ago mentor, Gad Almaliah (of blessed memory), the computer is just a tool. You have to know how to use it.  Gad was an artist and graphic designer who started his career when people still worked with blades and pens and glue. He learned the fundamentals of design and applied them whether using the old tools or the new.\n\nYou don\'t become a software engineer simply by owning a computer and you don\'t become a writer by having a pen. It sure helps to have the right tools, but you have to know how to use them to make them reach their full potential.\n\nAs you are probably aware, Steve Jobs died yesterday. I have seen a number of tributes to Jobs, focused on his stewardship of Apple and the Mac. Apparently, many people\'s lives have changed because they now have the IPad or the IPhone or a Mac on their desk.  However, I have to say that no matter how snazzy and cool your Apple product may be, it is not going to make you creative or smart. A designer may be able to do more with Macs, but he or she must know the fundamentals and have a vision and creativity. The Mac, without a human operator who has the capacity to do with it what he or she dreams, is just a machine or tool.\n\nTools alone are not enough. You must develop strategies. You should  encourage creativity and problem-solving. After all, the focus on the tool (for instance Twitter or the Iphone App) instead of the message will not help your communications campaign.\n\n&nbsp;','Don\'t focus on the tools','','inherit','open','open','','1442-revision','','','2011-10-06 17:35:05','2011-10-06 17:35:05','',1442,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/10/1442-revision/',0,'revision','',0),
(1444,4,'2011-10-06 17:37:00','2011-10-06 17:37:00','To quote a long ago mentor, Gad Almaliah (of blessed memory), the computer is just a tool. You have to know how to use it.  Gad was an artist and graphic designer who started his career when people still worked with blades and pens and glue. He learned the fundamentals of design and applied them whether using the old tools or the new.\n\nYou don\'t become a software engineer simply by owning a computer and you don\'t become a writer by having a pen. It sure helps to have the right tools, but you have to know how to use them to make them reach their full potential.\n\nAs you are probably aware, Steve Jobs died yesterday. I have seen a number of tributes to Jobs, focused on his stewardship of Apple and the Mac. Apparently, many people\'s lives have changed because they now have the IPad or the IPhone or a Mac on their desk.  However, I have to say that no matter how snazzy and cool your Apple product may be, it is not going to make you creative or smart. A designer may be able to do more with Macs, but he or she must know the fundamentals and have a vision and creativity. The Mac, without a human operator who has the capacity to do with it what he or she dreams, is just a machine or tool.\n\nTools alone are not enough. You must develop strategies. You should  encourage creativity and problem-solving. After all, the focus on the tool (for instance Twitter or a IPhone App) instead of the message will not help your communications campaign.\n\n&nbsp;','Don\'t focus on the tools','','inherit','open','open','','1442-autosave','','','2011-10-06 17:37:00','2011-10-06 17:37:00','',1442,'http://deborahbrody.com/2011/10/1442-autosave/',0,'revision','',0),
