Author’s Note: I wrote this blog post prior to the COVID-19 outbreak. For some reason, this devastating pandemic has made working from home lonelier to me. If it were not for my silly but always loyal pups, I’d likely go crazy. So if you’re working from home as part of the national effort to beat … Continued
What is more interesting to you – a screen full of text or text punctuated with images? That’s a pretty easy choice for most of us. A text-only website, blog post, or other digital content is neither engaging nor memorable. In fact, research shows people are 80 percent more likely to read content that includes … Continued
There’s nothing inherently funny about joint replacement surgery. I know. Three days ago I had my right hip replaced and I am so. not. laughing. That said, I also know that humor woven into well-told, authentic stories is one of the best ways to cut through media clutter, create connections, drive awareness, and convert customers … Continued
As a brand consultant, I don’t just consult on companies, products and services. I also consult with people who want help with personal branding, often with the goal of becoming a thought leader within their chosen field or on a specific issue. Here are reasons to become a thought leader: Establish and maintain relevance in … Continued
“A kind word never broke anyone’s mouth.” – Irish Proverb Last week a friend asked what I was giving up for Lent. Typically I give up sweets or adult beverages. But this year, I gave up something different. I gave up Facebook. Odd choice for a content marketer who manages social media channels for clients. … Continued
According to Pew Research, 95 percent of us Americans have a cell phone. Most of us couldn’t conduct business without them. I know mine is always in my pocket, on the desk, in the cup holder of my car. Ready for calls, emails, texts, or social media check-ins. I can’t run my business without my … Continued
I hate to admit it, but I’m an email junky. When I hear that ping, something goes off in my brain that compels me to see who’s sent me what… Oh look, a discount from Williams Sonoma and (gasp!) free shipping…an invitation to cruise with Royal Viking (that actually sounds good right now)…a request for … Continued
A British colleague and I had a brilliant idea for a partnership when we both worked with global packaging company Sonoco. As Sonoco’s public relations consultant, I was “words.” As their graphic designer, he was “pictures.” Thus the informal marketing duo of “Words and Pictures” was born. The funny thing is, I’m not just a … Continued
I ran across a great article by in INC on the importance of getting a company name just right. In it, author Adam Fridman puts forth a very strong premise: Your company name plays a monumental role in a brand’s growth and perception, meaning it can completely make or break a company. He outlines the three … Continued
I almost choked on my coffee – black, no soy, no syrup, no nothing – when I read the U.S. fantasy football market has 59 million players who spend $7 billion annually to play. Holy smokes! What’s motivating this? I queried some male friends and it got down to having the ability to control the … Continued