Oh, wait, you didn’t know they needed one? If brand is all about reputation, than nothing beats it when that reputation spreads organically through word of mouth. You can’t be all places at once, so it pays to turn your customers into your own private evangelist army. Many power brands revel in the fact that customers love them so much, those fans will generate content on their own accord – … [Read more...]
The Seattle Freeze: How customer service differs by city
There are lists for the best cities to start a business and the best place to be a pet. But when I tried to find a list of “Best cities for good customer service” you know what I found? Zip. Nada. Survey geeks, get on this. Would be useful to know. Why, you ask? Because I recently moved from Seattle back to the San Francisco Bay Area and I’ve had a massive epiphany about how customer service … [Read more...]
Do you judge wines by their labels? An adventure task…
While we are all taught not to judge a book by its cover, let’s get real. I’ve bought books, magazines, scented lotions, household cleaners (how can you resist Method’s packaging?) and yes, wine based solely on how the label looks. I’m a marketing groupie. I admit it. I’m a sucker for cute, clever or crisp packaging. As a former wine writer and still-active wine lover, I know that some gems … [Read more...]
The “brand” of Women: Who’s responsible? What can we do?
Last night, a therapist specializing in women and families told me girls as young as 8 years-old are dieting. That's right....8. When I was that age, I was worried about completing my Strawberry Shortcake doll set. What the hell is happening?! In the last few months, I've had my eyes opened to how the "brand" of women is represented in our world and it's caused me some concern. It's my … [Read more...]
A brand wolf in sheep’s clothing
Amen, sister! I am loving this controversial open letter that Sharp Skirts recently posted about ForbesWoman. SharpSkirts courageously indicts this media outlet, even after ForbesWoman named them one of the top ten entrepreneurial sites for women. Putting aside the important point Sharp Skirts makes about this purported "business publication" talking down to business women and assuming all … [Read more...]