Archive
Modernization and legacy code essays from the Corgibytes years, and marketing posts from 2006 to 2014.
2022
Secrets to Managing a Software Modernization Project
Using Empathy System Architecture, we can map out the fundamental skills required for effective empathy. Software System Architecture helps us identify the fundamental structures and relationships within a software system. Empathy can be approached the same way.
Empathy In Tech Community & Events
Last January, I met with about a dozen technologists to discuss how empathy shows up in their day-to-day work. In the conversation, I referred to Jamil Zaki's TED talk where he shares how empathy is a set of skills more…
2020
2019
2018
Modernization As A Competitive Advantage
From what I see, it's this relentless commitment to maintenance and modernization that enabled American entrepreneurs like Carnegie to outpace their British competitors, and it's a lesson that modern companies would do well to learn, lest their competition overtakes them.
Legacy code dragons (and how to slay them)
Here there be dragons. In 1510, that phrase appeared on a globe warning sailors of potential dangers. Fast forward five hundred years and beasts are no longer in the uncharted wilderness, but rather in the software we’ve…
To rewrite or to remodel? That is the question.
Your software isn't working the way you'd like. What should you do? Scrap everything and start over or slowly transform your application into something more in line with your vision. In this post, we explore the differences, strengths, and risks of each approach.
The Never-Ending Feature Party
Software is one big party! The question is: When's the optimal time to pause the partying so that you can restock and clean up? Well, it depends on who you ask.
2017
An Executive's Guide to Software Security: Lessons from Equifax’s (Preventable) Security Breach
Yesterday, the CEO of Equifax resigned after 143 million Americans personal data was compromised in a security breach. Since I own a company that focuses on upgrading custom software, I'm getting lots of calls from concerned executives wondering if their systems are secure. After all, if Equifax could get hacked, that makes you think what would happen if your customer data was compromised, right?
Charlottesville Response
This weekend, white supremacists descended on Charlottesville, Virginia and committed terrorist attacks against people protesting their intimidation. Three people died and many more were injured as a result. In light of these attacks, and the Google Memo last week complaining about hiring practices that promote racial and gender diversity while ignoring ideological diversity, I felt compelled to write an internal memo to my team to help them process these events and make clear Corgibytes' stance on diversity.
Lessons From The Women's Strike
“You should strike,” he said. We were laying in bed, catching up on the day's news when I saw an article for a general strike being organized to bring awareness to the contributions of women, both at work and at home. I mentioned it to my husband, Scott, who is also my business partner. Or as he likes to point out, I'm technically his boss as I'm the majority shareholder.
Thoughts on Doing It All
Recently, I was on the STEMxm podcast, where the host asked me a simple question: “You’re a woman in tech, you’re also a business owner and you have small children. Do you have any thoughts on the balance question and managing all of this?” Let’s first address the maternal bias that comes with just asking the question. Scott never gets asked how he “does it all” as a father, but I do all the time as a mother.
2016
KonMari Your Code; Refactor Your Life
Is your code difficult to work with? Chances are, it’s time to get rid of code you don’t need. That can be a scary prospect, but the rewards can be well worth the effort. Recently, I was inspired by KonMari, a technique for decluttering physical spaces, to help me visualize how to refactor codebases to make them easier to work with.
Software Remodeling
My dad is a self-described contrarian and eccentric. I love that about him. He doesn’t ever do something because that’s the way you’re “supposed to.” He’s also incredibly driven and energetic. He’s a fixer. If he sees a problem, watch out. If it aligns with one of his passions, he’ll put all of his energy towards finding a solution.
A Mob of Corgis
An experience report of using Mob Programming at Corgibytes. Trust, which was already high, became even stronger. Clients became more engaged and several commented on how much value they were getting from working with the Corgibytes team. When clients felt like they were getting more value, sales, grew, too.
This Google Docs Trick Just Changed the Way We Collaborate
As a productivity nerd, every once in a while I come across a new feature that makes me want to do a little happy dance. Well, this week I came across a trick in Google that had me dancing all week! Did you know that you…
2015
5 Reasons to Try bitHound for Your Next JavaScript Project
When a JavaScript project comes our way, we’ve found bitHound to be a fantastic tool to help us understand where we can have the most impact on a project. We love them, and not just because their company also has a dog in their name. So what makes bitHound stand out from other static analysis tools out there? We’re glad you asked.
Are You a Maker or a Mender?
When you think of a developer what comes to mind? A brogrammer living in San Francisco working 23 hours a day on the next Facebook? If so, you wouldn’t be alone. Like so many industries, software development is rife with…
Developer Differences: Makers vs Menders
While it's true that there are many software developers who do enjoy starting with a clean slate, there is also a group who loves working on making existing applications better. Rather than starting from scratch and building an 80% solution, these developers are ideal for taking over a project once it's become stable, and nurturing it for a long time. Neither developer is better. Both are needed in the software world. You just need to understand when to use each one.
2014
Know Thy Audience: 6 Steps to Creating a Brand Message that Works
One of the keys to developing an effective message is understanding your audience. Your audience is one of the three pillars of foundational content that you need to create your brand voice. The other two? Your…
6 Editorial Calendar Tools To Help You Crank Out Your Content
As you can imagine, keeping track of all the details of content production in your head doesn't make a lot of sense. There’s no doubt that an editorial calendar is a must to keep your content organized and running…
Lift: Bring Your Brand Voice to Life for Just $15 per Week
I’m excited to tell you I recently joined forces with Lift to give you easy access to support in establishing your brand voice. If you haven’t heard of them yet, Lift is an application based service with the simple…
Defining Your Brand Personality: 4 Tools to Boost Creativity
When I help brands define their distinct personality, seldom is it a straight download from one person’s brain. Most often, it happens through a series of group meetings where I help facilitate a discussion to uncover…
Brand Voice Victor: How Simple Has Created a Banking Revolution
Here on the BrandVox blog, we love to highlight brands who are effectively using their brand voice. When I asked around my co-working space which brand I should highlight next, overwhelmingly, my coworkers suggested…
What's Your Content Personality?
Image Credit: Bigstock Think of a team you worked on for a recent project. Were there people who you naturally got along with? Maybe some you had to learn to work with? In any team, personalities play a big part of the…
Build Your Content Foundation, a FREE class!
I’m super excited to tell you about something new (and FREE) I created just for YOU! You see, I know you work really hard and you care about your work in the world. And whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been at…
Choose Your Own Adventure: Create Better Websites With These Two Writing Rules
Think back to when you were in grade school. Do you remember the types of writing assignments you were given? There were research papers, book reports, project reports, maybe a little poetry, and then there was creative…
Plain Language vs. Legalese in Business Contracts
What was your reaction the last time you were presented with terms and conditions - for anything? Did your eyes sort of glaze over at the amount of tiny words you needed to read? Did you start reading, get bored and…
Brand Voice Victor: How Chipotle Uses Nooks and Cranny Content to Build Brand Engagement
Have you ever read a Chipotle cup? How about the bag your burrito comes in? Even if you haven’t, you’ve probably noticed the intriguing design on their packaging and the large amounts of words. Chipotle has been on my…
Core Values: The Secret to Creating a Thriving Company Culture
When I say core values what words come to mind? Words like integrity, diversity, inspiration, community, creativity, sustainability... blah, blah, blah. Right? This is the problem with most companies’ core values: too…
Mission Statements vs. Vision Statements: What's The Difference?
I’m going to ask you to slap on your visionary hat for a moment. If you are a business owner, or about to be, chances are you have a mission statement (if not, read this post). Think about that mission statement for a…
Brand Voice Victor: Threadless, Wolf Shirts and Using Your E.A.R for Customer Service
I was on the hunt for a wolf shirt. Why, you may ask? Because I'm a member of a wolf pack — the 804RVA Wolf Pack to be exact. You see, instead of working from home, I'm a member of a co-working space. I love being around…
14 Essential Steps to Creating a Brand Voice that Works Wonders
To sir, or not to sir… That’s just one of the many decisions you need to make about your brand voice. Answering these questions is no easy task, especially when you have conflicting advice. Just a few weeks ago, two…
Ditch the Formality and Start Writing Like You Talk
Image: Bigstock/photosquared When I say red pen, what comes to mind? Is it your English teacher and the paper you got back with red marks all over it? If so, you’re not alone. Teachers have been giving the red pen a bad…
Tone Wheel: A Tool for Defining Brand Voice and Tone
When I was a kid, my mom often said (or yelled), “Andrea! Use your inside voice.” You too? This is a fantastic example of the difference between your brand voice and tone. Our moms didn’t want me to change who we were…
How to Write a Mission Statement that Actually Inspires Your Employees and Customers
What do you get when you gather a CEO, her lawyers, the company’s board, the CFO, the Marketing department, and several other senior staff members in a room to write a mission statement? A convoluted, complicated, vague…
Content Personalities: Working with Others without Going Insane
- too many people in too many organizations Sometimes the hardest thing about being a content strategist or creator is taking the direction you’ve been given, interpreting it, and ~~turning it into amazing content~~…
Stop Writing Your Mission Statement and Start Writing Your Rallying Cry
What would you say every morning to rally your troops? Quick. Tell me your company's mission statement. Can't remember it? That's alright — go look it up. Now read it and tell me how you feel. Chances are, if you're like…
How to Create Content Like Oreo and Win Big this Sunday
Last year, I found myself in the center of a football-focused flashbulb moment. If you’re in content marketing, chances are you remember exactly where you were when Oreo struck big during last year’s big game. I sat on…
2013
Selling Science: Using Peer-Reviewed Papers for Content Marketing Success
Recently, I had the opportunity to work with The Spark Mill on a project for the Parkinson's and Movement Disorder Center at Virginia Commonwealth University. After conducting research and presenting them with a Message…
How to Start a Blog (And Keep It Going, and Going, and Going)
So, you've decided to start a blog. Awesome! You should totally do it — blogging is a fantastic way to build your professional credibility, explore your creativity, and connect with a community of like-minded people…
What Joseph Campbell Can Teach Us About Marketing
George Lucas created Star Wars and sold for over $4 Billion (yes, billion with a 'B'). What if I told you that George credits a large portion of his success to a man you probably haven't heard of — Joseph Campbell. I had…
Magic That Holds Your Brand Together: Message Architecture
Brands. They're often seen as mystical, elusive things that live somewhere over the marketing department and have a big pot of gold at the end. But brands don't live in the marketing department. Or in the advertising…
Message Architecture with Andrea Goulet Ford
I get asked all the time "what the heck is Message Architecture?" If you've been curious, check out this episode of Design Recharge where I talk content structure with host, Diane Gibbs.
How Getting Laryngitis Helped Me Get the Most Out of BlendConf
" BlendConf was the first conference I attended that had a "no device" policy. I hope it's not the last. A jeep, three friends, a road trip, and Don't Stop Believin' by Journey — the perfect recipe for laryngitis. Our…
Game of Chores: Use This Chore Chart to Actually Get Stuff Done
Life-size replica of the Iron Throne used on HBO's popular show, Game of Thrones. It can be yours for the rock-bottom price of $30,000. Better get some chores done to save for it. Pleasure. Or pain. Those are the only…
Why Your Personas Don't Work
Personas are our social masks. If we're trying to truly understand our customers, we have to dig deeper. There's the private persona and the public persona and the two shall never meet. -Liev Schreiber The key to…
Brand Voice Victor: Carrot
Personality. Sounds fluffy and frou frou? Think again. CARROT is proof that a personality will help you stand out in a crowded marketplace. CARROT is just one of the over 2,200 (as of July 2013) \"to do\" apps available…
Is Your Brand Borg or Borzoi?
For nearly a decade, it’s been my personal mission to “rid the world of corporate babble one concise sentence at a time.” Almost nothing gets under my skin more than a brand that actively disconnects itself from its…
How to Source, Organize, and Publish Quality Social Media Content (Without Losing Sleep)
Don’t make your audience drink from a firehose. Focus on quality, not quantity. What if I told you that you could publish a steady stream of quality social media content without: a) pulling all the hair out of your head…
Why LinkedIn Just Became My New CRM
Oh, LinkedIn! Just when I think you can’t get any better, you find a way to become even more useful. I think back on when we first met in 2005, I was a budding young sales executive, you were a new website that let me…
Lord of the Ink: Return of the Freelancer
I’m back to freelancing. Although, when I think about it, did I ever really stop? I’ve tried working at other companies — big Fortune 100 firms, tiny startups, medium agencies —but no matter the flavor, if I wasn’t…
2012
Does Ugly Duckling Branding Work?
I recently had lunch with a friend who said, “I don’t want my non-profit to look too polished. Then people will think I don’t need the money. We go for the ugly duckling effect.” This got me thinking. Does the ‘ugly…
6 Tips for Writing a Powerful Non-Profit Mission Statement
If your organization were a car, your mission statement would be the tires. Without one, it would be really hard to go anywhere; it’s the part on which the rest of the components rest. So, it’s important. You’ve got…
2011
Closing a door. Opening a window.
Today, we wrapped up the last client at Corgibytes. Sad, indeed. For the past two years, I’ve worked with my husband building websites and apps. But, after three very expensive lessons in a row, we had to pivot. So…
5 Takeaways from Creating Change at Discovery Communications
I jumped up and down like a four year old when I received the email. Peyton Rowe, my “friend in reward (not crime)” was inviting me to join her at the CreateAthon -inspired event Creating Change at Discovery…
2010
Beach Reads for a Business Owner
In one week, I’ll be at the beach. My out of the office message will be set on my e-mail, but like many business owners, my mind will be still very much focused on my passion — building my business. So in addition to…
7 Tips to Instantly Give Your Content Personality
Content with personality sells. Brands spend big bucks developing a distinct voice that makes them stand out. Conversational words engage your prospects instead of putting them to sleep, or worse, buying from someone…
On becoming a web “triple threat”
Believe it or not, I started school pursuing Classical Voice. My dream was to be on Broadway (it’s still on my list of things to do before I die). The only problem? I’m not a great dancer. You see, to really make it on…
Taking the leap…again.
Next Tuesday is my last day at Capital One. It’s been a great ride. I’ve made lots of friends and learned a ton, but I never quite shook the own-your-own-business bug. I’m thinking it’s genetic. My brother’s an…
10 Tips for a Kickass Wanted Ad
Here’s a great example of how to write a job description that works. I found this on Andy Sernovitz’s blog (a must have on your RSS feed if you ask me.) Benifit-driven conversational copy gets you noticed. 10 Reasons why…
2009
Use Twitter to Make the Most Out of Your Next Conference
As a former sales professional, I’ve attended my fair share of conferences. It’s usually ended up being a game of networking roulette—working the room hoping you’ll bump into someone with whom you have synergy. It’s a…
What’s Your City’s Icebreaker Question?
Each city has one. The get to know you question that EVERYONE seems to ask. Be it baby shower or a business networking event, you’re bound to hear it from someone. In DC, be prepared to answer “What do you do?” Some…
Twitter Translated from Geek Into English
Two years ago I posted how twitter was a “complete waste of my time”. No one I knew used it. Searching was clunky. They didn’t even have a model to generate revenue (still don’t). But the tipping point has arrived. It…
Flesh Out vs. Flush Out — Either way it’s disgusting
Recent conversation with co-worker: Me: This has been a great brainstorming. I’m going to go back to my desk and flush out some of these ideas. She: Sounds good. Wait. Did you just say ‘flush out’….that always makes me…
Authors: Create More Buzz for Your Book with a Virtual Book Signing
Here’s a way cool idea on how to use social networking to build an audience. My friend and first time author Carmen Shirkey is harnessing the power of facebook, blogs, twitter, you tube and the gads of other social media…
2008
Blogging lessons from Walden Pond
I think Henry David Thoreau would have made an excellent blogger. I’m currently listening to Walden, his account from an over two year sojourn of isolated living, in a cabin he built himself, along the shores of Walden…
McCain’s missing market share
I have difficulty understanding how McCain is targeting the millennial generation. When I look through my lens, it’s like he doesn’t even exist. His marketing campaign is so skewed that his presence is invisible to me…
Reconciliation
Since coming to Capital One in December of 2007, I’ve struggled to find a balance for this blog. For the past year and a half, I used this blog as a marketing tool for my freelance business. Now that I’m not building a…
How to Get More Customers (Even If You Hate Selling)
My mother created what I think is a purple cow. An avid gardener, she was frustrated with the market’s lack of a quality garden plant marker, so she set out and created her own. Every gardener she’s shown it to flips…
50 Ideas to Immediately Combat Writers Block
Writer’s block – the dreaded enemy of all authors. This post features ideas on how you can scale it, get over it, and be on your merry way in a flash. 1. Read blogs about your subject. 2. Cover your computer screen and…
Increase Brand Awareness with Clever Copy in the Nooks & Crannies
Hiding in the corners beneath the bold headlines, under the compelling benefit statements, and around the action-packed verbs are bountiful opportunities to inject your brand with personality. A recent trend is “nooks &…
10 Tactics for Top-Notch Testimonials
Testimonials – the magical way to turn boasting into evangelism. Sure, they’re effective – and their use is hyped in every corner of marketing communications. But just how do you go about gathering them? Here are 10…
10 Ways to Become a Writer (That Gets Paid)
If you’re looking to transition your love of writing from hobby to vocation, keep reading – this post is just for you. 1. Own Your Talent – You are a writer. No matter how listless and gray your cubicle is, or how many…
Creativity Contest – Win a $25 Visa Gift Card
This morning, mid-pancake, I had an interesting idea for an advertising headline, but alas no reason to use it. So I figured rather than letting this idea fizzle into the ether I would throw it out there as a contest…
Make Your Message Bounce With a Game of Verbal Tennis
I’m currently reading Geoff Livingston’s New Media Primer Now Is Gone (a great read for anyone seeking practical advice on how to use new media in a marketing strategy). In the introduction, Brian Solis makes a point…
A Fun Game Between the Superbowl Ads (And I’m Not Talking About Football)
Ok. I admit it. When it comes to sports, I could frankly care less. I didn’t even know who was playing in the “Big Game” until this afternoon (sad, I know). But I still get super jazzed around this time of year…for the…
Brainstorming vs. Editing
So I have the green light to continue with the blogging (you may notice the lovely disclaimer under my picture, just to be on the safe side). Horray! Let the blogging continue. Here’s a thought… How should you respond to…
New Name, But Still Sweet.
Shakespeare was a pretty savvy scribe when he wrote “a rose by any other name would smell as sweet.” Look above and you’ll see that my name has changed. New name, same writer. And just to fill you in, I’ve decided to go…
2007
A Potential Adieu
Well, it’s time to let the cat out of the bag. I’ve accepted a position as a Senior Copywriter for a large Fortune 500 company and I’m super stoked about this opportunity. See, landing a job as a full-time copywriter is…
Does a Mac Make You More Creative?
The other day I was typing away at a local coffee shop when a stranger approached me and asked me what I did for a living. When I responded, “I’m a writer,” he furrowed his eyebrows in confusion. “But you don’t have a…
Jott and Google Calendar – A Techological Match Made in Heaven
Hooray for increased efficiency! Jott.com announced today the official link of the Google Calendar Jott Link. According to an e-mail I received this morning from Jott.com, “We’ve been working hard on the official release…
Build Your Own Credit Card – Captial One’s Card Lab
When’s the last time you received a direct mail letter from a credit card company? If you’re like me, chances are you can’t remember the last time your mailbox contained only one. Direct mail has traditionally been the…
Genius and Insomnia
Genius and insomnia seem to go hand in hand. Why is it that my best ideas creep into my mind at 3am while I lie solemnly with my head on a pillow attempting to get some z’s? Does anyone else experience this, or is my…
Welcome to the blogosphere, Pen Maestro!
It’s official – my little brother’s a blogger. 🙂 You could say our family is just a bit on the entrepreneurial side. My dad owns a power cleaning company, my mom a laser engraving company, I’m a writer and my brother…
I’ve Fallen and I CAN Get Up
Last night while running, I fell. Not a dainty trip, but rather a full fledged, face to the ground spill. For those of you who run, you know that this happens every once in a while. You get in the zone, completely…
The Empathetic Marketer
Here’s a riddle for you – what is the most important character trait a successful marketer must possess? Analytical skills? Shrewdness? Communication? While all of these are important, I believe empathy trumps them all…
Attention All Real Estate Agents…
Stop, I repeat STOP putting me on your weekly or monthly newsletter when I haven’t asked you to. Just because I sat next to you at a networking event and gave you my card does not mean that we have a relationship. Do you…
The Power of Being Concise
Some people distill alcohol – copywriters distill words. It’s our job to weed through the muddy and unnecessary and craft a crystal clear message. More often than not, this means paring down (usually WAY down) the…
Horray! Linked In Has Pictures
A few months ago I began a petition to allow pictures on LinkedIn. Well… (drum roll please) now you can. Somehow I doubt that this is because of my little petition – but it just goes to show that it helps to put what you…
Humble Thoughts On Blogs, Social Networks, and other New Media Stuff
Last week Geoff Livingston and I participated in Smart Business Ideas(TM) Magazine’s Ready, Set, Grow event where the topic focused around blogs. Since our presentation I’ve been receiving e-mails from those in…
Run Circles Around Your Competition: How to Build a Loyal Fan Base
At first glance, you might consider Pacer’s, a running store in Alexandria, VA to be about the same as, say, the Foot Locker in the mall. After all, they carry similar products, market to a similar audience, and have a…
A Picture is Worth…
A big shout out to my friend Doug Kean for the AMAZING job on my new headshots! I was so impressed with his level of creativity and professionalism and would highly recommend him to anyone in the DC area in need of a…
Ditch the Pitch
When I was 16 my dad gave me a gift. Our neighbor had just opened an insurance office down the street and my father got me a job as a telemarketer. Granted, I wanted a new car. I wasn’t exactly thrilled with the thought…
What Happens to Creative Accountants?
They go to jail – or at least that’s what Dr. O told me upon my third attempt at Managerial Accounting. Here’s how the conversation went: Dr. O: This is the way you apply this to the balance sheet (scribbling on board)…
The Amazing Technicolor Networking Jacket
In the ten years I’ve been in sales I’ve attended a lot of networking events where a lot of people stand around in black suits. Black suits are safe. Black suits blend in. Black suits don’t get noticed. There’s nothing…
Before & After
I’ve lost 95 pounds this year. Really – here are the pics to prove it. Size 20 to a size 6. But this post isn’t about me – it’s about your marketing. See, marketing is a lot like weight loss. Everyone’s looking for the…
100 Things to Do Before I Die (um, make that 63).
A couple of months ago my friend Jen Sterling and I were having dinner discussing how we always wanted to get together and write our “life list.” We were inspired by Ted Leonsis who survived a plane crash in 1983. Upon…
5 Myths of Business Communications
Take a moment and think about all the words you send to your prospects and clients – all the content of your website, brochures, e-mails, letters, fliers, blogs, etc., etc., etc. Imagine all the vowels and consonants…
Yikes! Getting What You Wish For
I’m about to share something that is intensely personal. About a year ago I watched a movie called The Secret. Part of me thought it was a hokey, over-simplified way to state the complex state of the universe. But…
Write for free? I don’t think so.
Barry Gluck wrote a magnificent post about companies who try to solicit writing services for free or next to nothing. I highly suggest reading his post in its entirety by clicking here. Barry makes the point of how…
Die, Jargon, Die!
When you find yourself in a conversation and someone squinches their eyebrows in confusion – chances are, you’ve uttered some jargon. For years I’ve been telling clients that jargon is a surefire way to confuse the heck…
Cranking Out Quick Copy
I’m lucky. I’ve been inundated with projects over the past week (which explains the slump in my posting schedule). But yesterday I found myself taking way more time than usual to get my ideas out of my head and into the…
Adventures in Amazing Copywriting #6 – Creating Conversation
This week’s adventure brings us Down Under with Aussie’s revamped branding. You may recognize their mascot – the iconic kangaroo and their signature purple bottle. But what catches my eye is the overwhelming personality…
Reduce Social Media Burnout with a Communication Vacation
There’s a lot of buzz around the blogosphere about social media burnout. I blogged about this in April when I first started feeling the fatigue. Heck, if Steve Rubel is starting to see the strain – we know this is for…
Adventures in Amazing Copywriting #5 – Top Copywriting Blogs
Looking for inspiration? Check out these fantastic blogs for tips and examples of how you can pump up your writing. American Copywriter – My favorite section? Classics. See why doctors recommend Lysol as a douche to earn…
Toby Bloomberg’s Kick-Ass Keynote (as presented at the New Media Nouveaux Conference)
Transparency, passion and lessons learned – all presented in a clear and entertaining fashion. How could you have a better keynote? Toby Bloomberg is the author of the top-ranked blog Diva Marketing Blog (in the top…
How to Get Your Name in Print
Ever wondered how people are chosen for feature articles in the newspaper? Here’s how it worked for me. A few weeks ago, I was sitting in my “satellite office” at Market Square in Alexandria, VA. I go here on warm summer…
Social Media Overload – Is Your Brain Fried Yet?
The New Media Nouveaux Conference has been a magnificent catalyst for conversation. Geoff Livingston gave an insightful introduction to new media – citing case studies from his upcoming book, Now Is Gone. He started by…
Live Blogging From the New Media Nouveaux Conference
I’m sitting at the New Media Nouveaux conference in Tyson’s Corner, VA – ready to learn more about the crazy world of blogging and new media culture. The conference is sponsored by Success In the City, founded by Cynthia…
10 Interview Questions to Create Stellar Copy
I’m about to share a secret with you. It may sound far-fetched, but it’s true. Ready? The key to great copywriting is not writing – it’s about intimately understanding the motives, beliefs and emotions of your audience…
LinkedIn – WE WANT PICTURES!!!
I’m on a mission. I love LinkedIn – it’s by far the most effective social media tool I use for my business. But I have one big issue and I want to get it resolved. Why isn’t there a place to put your picture on your…
Adventures in Amazing Copywriting #4 – Variations on a Theme
Today’s adventure comes to us from Eggspectation – a theme restaurant where the egg is front and center. Just look at their mission statement: Looking around at the eclectic decor you can see how the egg theme is all…
Want Word of Mouth? Try This.
Being good is not always a good thing. Good is doing what’s expected. Good is standard. Good is everyday. Good is okay. Good is same-ol’, same-ol’. Good gives me nothing to talk about. Being great gives me something to…
Adventures in Amazing Copywriting #3 – Alliteration
Today’s example of amazing copywriting comes to us from Sprecher Brewery and their Orange Dream soda. On the top label, a simple sentence stands superior. Although it’s short, here’s why it works: Alliteration (several…
Are you a Sheep or a Mountain Goat?
The Sloan Brothers over at Startupnation.com posted an interesting insight into entrepreneurship. After spending time with Seth Godin and his new book The Dip (side note – even though it’s short, it’s a great read and…
Adventures in Amazing Copywriting #2 – It’s all in the details
Today’s example of amazing copywriting comes to us from The Corner Bakery (yum!). Why this works: 1 – Correct Target Market – The Corner Bakery does a lot of catering (and they do a darned good job, too) and they clearly…
Wikis, RSS & Social Networking in Plain English
Lee LeFever at Commoncraft has produced some excellent videos for those people who are new to this whole Web 2.0 thing (sorry, Geoff – I know I probably just killed a startup) I’d highly recommend checking them out…
When’s the Last Time Your Politician Wished You a Happy Birthday?
Mine did – today (and, yes – it is my birthday). This is just quick note to wish you a Happy Birthday! It’s an honor to serve you in the House of Delegates, and if there’s anything I can do to serve you better, please…
How to Talk to Strangers: Finding the Right Tone for Social Network E-mails
One of the effects of social media is the ability to connect with so many people. We are able to reach out and form connections without regard to time or location. However, as in real life you never get a second chance…
Adventures in Amazing Copywriting #1
One thing I love about Trader Joe’s is the copy on their private label products. Because of the catchy product titles & descriptions, I’m drawn to the private label products above the others. This is a great strategy for…
Make your hard work work hard for you.
Twenty years ago intellectual property was a different beast. Creators would put a big chain link fence around their work and say bluntly “back off!” to anyone who tried to spread their ideas. Today, the landscape has…
Convert Your Website to 2.0 in 5 easy steps!
Step 1: Change your font from Times New Roman to Trebuchet MS Step 2: If the name of your product ends in “er” remove the “e” so it looks cool. Step 3: Have a white background with any of the following colors: baby blue…
This proves I don’t have a Southern accent
The southern town I grew up in is so small we actually have a town song that we would get together and sing every year (you think I’m kidding?! – It starts off “Ashland, Ashland, center of the universe. Ashland, VA my…
The Blogger Writing Style Defined (Kind Of)
On my daily run between Market Square and Founder’s Park it hit me – the Writer’s Spectrum. Writers dwell on a plane that lies somewhere between Dragnet’s “Just the facts, Ma’am.” and the insightful, introspective…
Which New Media Tools are Worth Your Time?
I don’t know about you – but I feel like I’m a pretty savvy person, yet my capacity for online gadgets and social media tools is starting to reach the breaking point. I think Steve Rubel says it best. So with all of the…
Put Your Mind In the Gutter (Or Else Your Clients Will)
Browsing through Reddit today and ran across this post of Worst Business Name Ever with this photo: Hopefully you see the obvious problem here. It reminds me of when one of my friends was pregnant. She and her husband…
The ABC’s of Marketing Terms
In the marketing world, everyone has their own personal definitions for the various terms we run into – and I’m no different. Here are my interpretations of various words you may run across: Advertising – Any activity…
Political Marketing: David Englin Does It Right
You may not know who David Englin is. I didn’t – until I moved into his district and received an astonishingly well written welcome letter. David Englin Delegate – 45th District Curious, I checked out his website and on…
Myragan.com: Here’s Why I’m Totally Addicted
I belong to a LOT of social networking sites and I love it. My latest craze is myragan.com – a social networking site specifically for communicators (folks in Advertising/Marketing/PR, etc.) What sets myragan apart from…
New Media Conference in Washington D.C.
If you’re in the Metro DC area, mark your calendar for the New Media Nouveaux conference July 13th. The focus of the conference will be “how to get your audience to fall madly in love with you, your message and your…
Hometown Heroes: Martin Agency Puts Richmond, VA On the Advertising Map
Being a Richmonder, when I opened this month’s issue of Fast Company to see the extensive profile of the Martin Agency I couldn’t have been prouder. I’ve walked past their offices more times than I could count. They were…
Boomers – Here’s Why Gen-Y is So (Selfish, Independent, Ambitious….)
On the forums on MyRagan.com (myspace for MarComm) Kristen Ridley posted a hilarious tongue-in-cheek letter to all Millennials asking why: Here is my response…… Andrea Morris is the Chief Idea Officer of Write Ideas…
Ghost Blogging Ethics Across the Globe
The world is getting flatter – as shown by my conversation at a recent party (same one from yesterday’s post) with a German publicist named Robert. Inevitably, the topic of blogging came up and Robert gave me an…
What’s in a name?
One of my close friends is an architect. I love having her outside perspective when I’m explaining what I do – she almost can’t conceive the life of a copywriter. The other day she invited me to a party to celebrate one…
Ideas on using meetup.com for marketing
Last fall I stumbled upon a website called meetup.com. The concept is simple – a place for people with like-minded interests to organize events and meet in real life. To me, this site takes social networking and Web 2.0…
What Karaoke Can Teach You About Marketing
OK, I admit it – I’m a karaoke junkie. My friends and I go every week. I have a standard set of songs I sing – because I’ve practiced them so often I could sing them in my sleep. I don’t have to worry about going out on…
How soon ’till your niche becomes a commodity?
The blessing and curse of a great idea is it catches on. People duplicate it, put their own spin on it and improve it. If you originate a great idea you must work harder than everyone else to stay in the forefront – lest…
Calling all interesting business websites
For my column in Smart Business Ideas Magazine I’m on the hunt for interesting websites business owners can use. I am NOT interested in anything related to “make money now.” Instead, these are resources or new…
Why Link Love is Bad for Your Blog
Fresh out of college I worked selling ad space for a regional lifestyle magazine. It was a tough sell because the magazine was about 80% advertising and 20% editorial – and people caught on. The lack of original content…
Effective Marketing with Myspace.com
Today while checking my myspace.com account I found the following message from author Paco Ahlgren. On my profile, I list my interest in Taoism and quantum physics – so when I received this message I was glad because his…
Everything I learned about sales I learned from working in a restaurant
Thanks to Jeffery who reminded me that everything I learned about sales I learned from working in a restaurant. In order to put myself through college (and I can proudly say I graduated without taking out a dime in…
The Importance of Customer Complaints
I have a friend who bartends at a local restaurant. Sometimes I like to go and have a glass of wine while he’s working to catch up on life. Last week, while enjoying a nice Shiraz, I overheard the owner of the restaurant…
Too Clever For Your Own Good?
Mrs. Mogul posts on the following stores that went out of business in what she thinks is due to their poor naming. Candle Store – The Almost Edible Candle Gourmet Shop Ice Cream Store – The Marble Slab Pet Store – Doggy…
The History of “We’re Never Too Busy for Your Referrals”
Thanks to Rick Dassler who posted a comment about the history of the phrase “We’re never too busy for your referrals.” Looks like he has dibbs on the phrase I came up with to replace it – glad it works for you. This…
Online Newsletters – Are they worth it?
I was cleaning out my e-mail inbox the other day and realized just how many e-zines and newsletters I receive. Some of them I subscribe to (like AAF Smartbrief, Lorrie Morgan-Ferraro’s Red Hot Copy, and various blogs via…
Annoying Business Buzzwords and Phrases
When I hear one of these phrases, a part of me cringes. Are people still talking like this? Are they listening to what they’re saying? “We offer excellent customer service” – OK, what else do you do. Excellent customer…
Catchy Store Names & Taglines
There’s a restaurant in town called the Bilbo Baggin’s Cafe – their tagline? “Great Service is More Than Just a Hobbit” Other store names that caught my eye… - A bakery called the Upper Crust - A bookstore called Books &…
The Friendly DMV (no, really!)
This afternoon I stopped by the Alexandria, VA Department of Motor Vehicles expecting long lines, rude attendants and a big hassle. I walked in and was politely greeted by a smiling woman at the information booth…
Back to Basics: Marketing Fundamentals
Last week I went on a hunt for the perfect little black dress. It had to be something timeless and classic. A garment that would look great no matter how many trends it went through. To me, fashion fads should be…
Love for All: Chemistry.com Taps eHarmony’s Rejects
My friend Angela tried her hand at online dating last fall. She began her quest at eHarmony.com, mostly as a result of their compelling “Dimensions of Compatibility” campaign. She logged on, spent about an hour taking…
Word of Mouth Advertising: Give ‘Em Something to Talk About
Earlier this week I awoke to find my car vandalized. In the middle of the night someone smashed the windshield, stole my stereo and broke the steering column. Stressed and frustrated I called my insurance company, GEICO…
Web 2.0 Burnout?
Here’s a riddle for you, what do you get when you cross a traditional website with Web 2.0? The answer? A whole new ballgame. Squidoo.com (a project with marketing guru Seth Godin at the helm) calls their new ballgame a…
Congrats Ad Man!
Congratulations to my friend Geoff Livingston of Livingston Communications who celebrated the first-year anniversary of his business! As he puts it… “We’ve had great experiences, from promoting Godsmack lead singer Sully…
Joost.com – Inflated Viral Marketing
Looking to build buzz about your business? Take a hint from Joost.com – a new online TV service from the founders of Skype that’s sure to knock the socks off traditional cable. Through a deal with Viacom, Joost.com…
The Secret to Spectacular Writing
Many of us search for the perfect words to help sell our product or service. We tweak the recipe until we have a proprietary blend of personality and professionalism. The words jump off the page and the reader feels…
Interactive Ads – Make me notice you on ABC.com
As a Grey’s Anatomy fan I’ve been relying on the interactive player at ABC.com to get the latest gossip of McDreamy & McSteamy. I like watching episodes online better than TiVo a) because I travel and don’t have to worry…
Write while the juice is in ya
When I talk to my friends who have a “regular job” (meaning they sit at an office from 9 to 5 M-F) they are often mesmerized at my hours. I like to say that my office is wherever my brain and laptop are and I work when…
All I could say was “Wow”
Checking my blog stats for today I noticed a dramatic increase in traffic due to a single post I wrote over a month ago titled “Could you win Richard Branson’s $25 Million Dollar Prize?” Turns out if you Google “Richard…
No more text-n-drive!! Jott.com introduces hands-free emailing
It happens every time. I’m sitting in the car on the DC beltway and smack – an idea. Out of nowhere the perfect solution to a problem or a fabulous tagline for a client will magically appear out of thin air. Only problem…
Professional Millennial: My life in Gen Y
I have a secret…I’m a millennial. I knew how to operate a computer before I knew how to write. One of my first “real” dates was with someone I met Online. Every research paper I wrote started with an Internet search…
Integrity Selling: An Interview with Fred Sarkari
Recently, I ran across a blog post that made me think. It was a man who openly admitted to double booking an appointment with a client and chose to be honest. You can read my former post by clicking here. This fascinated…
How to succeed in sales without really trying
Fellow blogger Fred Sarkari posted a true-to-life tale of a mistake that I know all of us have made at one point or another – double booking appointments. To read the full story click here. Fred’s reaction to his mistake…
How to define your target market – motivation vs. demographics
I recently worked with a client named Jane who is a healer of sorts. When we sat down to analyze her target market, she was mystified. “I don’t know” she said. “I work with both men and women, their age and income is…
Writing Copy that Sells – Read How You Want to Write
In today’s world of SEO & meta tags writing online copy can be an intimidating undertaking. Eastonweb’s blog has an insightful interview with Lisa Manyon as she shares her tips and tricks for writing website copy that…
How to get noticed by your target market
Here’s a way to get yourself noticed by your target market. Not sure if it’s the most ethical thing to do.
Yet another sign of the death of traditional media
In today’s Wall Street Journal Suzanne Vranica comments on the decision of Nike to leave their long time agency Wieden & Kennedy. The reason? “Dissatisfaction with the agency’s digital expertise.” Take note – times are…
The Pick-up Line, The Date & The Marriage – Understanding the Difference between Marketing, Advertising & Sales
Ask 100 marketing professionals about what they “do” and you’ll get 100 different answers. Compound advertising & sales professionals and you end up with a big nebulous cloud of ambiguity. In my post 101 Ways to Market…
Advertising: No results? No charge.
My first job out of college was selling advertising space in a low-quality lifestyle magazine that has since dissolved (we all had to start somewhere). We were trained to sell on the basis of our ridiculously high…
Passion = Profits
If you read my blog regularly, you may have noticed that it’s been a couple of weeks since my last post. I believe it was the Beatles who said, “Life is what happens while you’re busy making other plans.” How true. There…
Freecycle.org – I love you!!!
Our mattress was terrible. I mean really bad. We talked about getting a new one for years and never quite got around to it. Then the other day I got my freecycle e-mail and saw someone was moving and giving away their…
To emoticon or not to emoticon – that is the question.
Yesterday I came home, checked my mail and was jazzed to see my March copy of Inc. Magazine in the mailbox. On the last page was the section of The Office by Leigh Buchanan where she expressed her extreme displeasure in…
Move over Google – ChaCha.com may become my new search engine of choice
In a recent article by ClickZ.com Tess Wegert describes www.chacha.com -a new search engine that works with professional searchers (real people) or interactive guides. It’s kind of like if you threw a search engine, chat…
Sales as ethical and moral? Seriously, you can do that?
Scott Lundergan left a comment on my recent blog post 101 Ways to Market Your Small Business that addresses a key point to my philosophy. I couldn’t agree more. The way I see it, our goal as marketers is to find those…
Could you win Richard Branson’s $25 Million Dollar Prize?
Sir Richard Branson, the quirky and exuberant executive of Virgin (airlines, mobile, records, and the list goes on…) announced today a $25 million reward to the first scientist who can create “a commercially viable…
Superbowl Ads – And the winner is…
Ok, so I’m a day late. Things came up and all I could think about was getting my blog up. Anyway – here we go….. The winners of the 2007 Write Ideas Marketing Superbowl Commercial Contest are…. (drum-roll please) Best…
Are you ready for some football (um, make that advertising)?
As a marketer, Superbowl is one of my favorite times of year. I feel like a kid at Christmas just waiting to see all the new stuff. Is it extreme? Sure. Unrealistic for a normal business? Of course. Entertaining? You…
Mac Ads – a witty response to Microsoft Vista
I’m a big fan of the ads that Mac has put out recently. You know – the ones where there’s a conversation between the “mac” and the “pc” Click here to view them all. Why do I think they’re effective? Here’s a list…
101 Ways to Market Your Small Business
Are you a small business, consultant or entrepreneur? Looking for ways to market your services to bring in more sales? I don’t need to tell you that a big reason 8 out of 10 US businesses fail is because they don’t have…
Does size matter?
Blogger MarketingMoment has a great post about an article from ecademy.com. Does long copy or short copy work better in copywriting? My thoughts – it depends (What a cliche marketing answer, huh?). Are you looking to do…
Marketing Mishaps – Don’t let this happen to you
CNNmoney.com has put out a list of the “101 Dumbest Moments in Business” with a section devoted to “Misadventures in Marketing.” Here’s an example of a mishap you can easily avoid – just use spell check (especially if…
Young Entrepreneurs of the World – Unite!
Today’s New York Times features an article about young (granted, much younger than me) entrepreneurs. There’s a special place in my heart for these innovators as I started my own business at the tender age of 13. My…
Cut the B.S. if you want your marketing to make an impact
Not to get all preachy, but I’m not going to beat around the bush. If you want your audience to “get” what you do – cut the B.S. (Boastful Superlatives) Terms like best, greatest, terrific, excellent, or outstanding…
Stitch n’ Bitch – Knitting gets edgy
Sometimes you just need a little edge. Last fall while walking through a craft store, my eye glanced at Debbie Stoller’s book Stitch N’ Bitch. I did a complete double-take – a controversial title about (of all things)…
Superbowl & Oscars Consumer Created Ads – 15 minutes of fame? Try 15 seconds.
Ok. We all know that Superbowl, which airs on CBS is the most expensive time to advertise on TV – with this year’s cost exceeding $2.6 million according to a recent article from CNNmoney.com. The second runner up – The…
Even the Oscars have their target market
An article in today’s New York Times quoted president of the academy, Sidney Ganis as saying, “We’ve come to learn that nothing totally promotes itself.” Good advice Mr. Ganis and who better to promote the Oscars than…
What an M&M can teach you about Marketing
Here’s what I’d look like as an M&M. What a genius viral marketing campaign! For twenty minutes I was interacting with the site, all the while thinking of M&Ms. USA Today even referenced the campaign, siting another…
Blogging so easy – even a 75 year old CEO could do it.
Today’s Washington Post features an article on the self professed “tech-NO” J.W. Marriott, Jr. chief executive of Marriott International, and how he is starting his blog today. Although he won’t be typing the words…
Get Noticed with POP!
Move over high-priced, fancy-schmancy, Madison Avenue marketing firms – your secret’s out. In her latest book, POP! Stand Out in any Crowd, author Sam Horn demonstrates 25 techniques anyone can use to make their title…
Internet Slang
So I was using one of my favorite reference books, Slang, by Paul Dickson and I ran accross some pretty interesting Internet terms. Angry Fruit Salad – a website with too many bright colors Bandwith Hugger – Someone who…
Itube, Youtube, WeTube
Youtube.com has been named one of the most influential websites of 2006. Why? What is the future of this website? Professional frisbeer Zak George posts this question saying why do “We Tube”? Interesting thoughts. How…
Verizon Fios – All that from that itty-bitty cable?
I can’t wait! My condo unit was wired today for Verizon Fios (Fiberoptic Service) which will be able to deliver me internet speeds of up to 10GB/second. Wow. Ok. Let me digest that. That’s over 1000 times the speed of…
Is your marketing message sticky?
In this month’s Inc. Magazine, Editor Mike Hofman sits down with authors (and brothers) Chip and Dan Heath to discuss their views on what makes a marketing message “stick.” The Heath brothers’ new book, Made to Stick…
Who says you have to wait until the Superbowl to see the best ads?
For those of us who watch the Superbowl more for the entertaining commercials than the football – rejoice. Thanks to TBS, and their show World’s Funniest Commercials which airs this Friday at 9/8 Central, you can now…