I’ll admit this right from the start, I don’t really like the John Lewis ad. I am clearly soulless. Actually, it is great, it is warm, it is emotive but it’s just too ‘commercial’ for me, which sounds odd for an advert but it feels too much like a plug for Elton’s farewell tour. Although …
The battle for hearts, minds and marketing budgets rages. Can’t we all just get along? The answer of course is YES, if you integrate these specialisms they wield HUGE power for the marketing arsenal. However, as with all weapons, they are dangerous in some hands. Especially if you throw social media into the mix…. Can …
SEO v PR v Advertising v The Times – how NOT to win at media relations Read More »
Some fundamental things apply when selecting a PR agency and it is not all about who walks in through the door on pitch day – firstly take a look at yourself. Why do you want external support and what do you want to achieve? Will the agency be an extension of your own efforts …
Has anyone seen a scapegoat? I’m sure we left it somewhere around here. There must be someone to blame, to rant against. Even a small burning effigy would do. But no, not this time. The man who missed in ’96, the chap with the bag on his head in the Pizza Hut …
Scapegoat 0,Waistcoat ‘WON’ – football’s coming home Read More »
Businesses are increasingly realising that Corporate Social Responsibility, or ‘CSR’ for short, can be a major asset when it comes to positioning positive public relations for their brand. There are various elements they can weave into their marketing mix around sustainability and ethical practice but the classic tactic that is normally the easiest to implement …
Why your charitable efforts get ignored by the media Read More »
You know the old saying about taking a horse to water? Well, it is the same with PR and Marketing. It doesn’t matter how wonderful your branding, goodwill, reputation and market position is if you do not make it EASY for people to engage with you and buy from you. PR and Marketing are not …
Why the magic bullet theory isn’t just JFK’s problem Read More »
This is the front page of my client’s local newspaper this morning. Talk about return on investment for PR! It features a story we have worked on for over a month, getting quotes from supporting parties and stakeholders, positioning my client at the heart of the deal and essentially telling their market that if you …
Do you know what your target media thinks about you, your brand or your business? Have you ever thought to ask them? Now, this may sound scary and at times even be a bit uncomfortable BUT if you are going to run a PR or marketing campaign properly, you need to start with a baseline. …
Your media reputation, can you handle the truth? Read More »
It’s not you, it’s me. We’ve tried but it just isn’t the same anymore. It would be best for us both if we just moved on. Feel good? Maybe you have a bit of a nervous feeling in the pit of your stomach? What if you took this honest approach to your marketing? Especially with …
Who will you break up with this Valentine’s Day? Read More »
It’s not every day that you get to meet one of your sporting heroes. My chance came yesterday when I met the Olympic legend, Sir Steve Redgrave. I’ve been fortunate in my public relations career to have met and worked with a lot of interesting business figures. I’ve even chaired press conferences for James Caan …
So, Sir Steve, what made you get back in the boat? Read More »