I expected more from the Google job description in its search for the next Doodler. Job descriptions can serve as a litmus test on whether a company gets business storytelling. In other words, are functions other than communications like HR using language to give those on the outside a sense of the company culture and …more
Back in 2012 I posted plans to evolve the blog which included: And I recognize the “look and feel” of the blog desperately needs help, another action on the 2012 to-do list. Didn’t happen. This exchange with Marsha Collier surfaced in 2013: I’ve had friends tell me that once I bulldoze the wretched “look and feel” …more
The grab bag returns with three random tidbits that squeeze under the communications umbrella. Here goes. Contrast as a Storytelling Technique Of all the storytelling techniques that lift business communications, contrast is one of the easiest to implement. Old Way vs. New Way With vs. Without LeBron vs. Steph (for the NBA fans) And the …more
I wrote a post in April mentioning that one of our young account professionals, Melissa Lewelling, was headed to the prestigious Cannes Film Festival. Out of literally thousands of films, her film, called “More Than a Number,” was one of 30 films selected by Campus Movie Fest to be shown in the Short Film Corner. …more
Last year Buffer published the post, “Want to Improve Your Social Media Sharing? Harness the Power of Positivity in Social Media,” that evangelized a keep-it-positive message. Among the research supporting its position, the post included data from a Facebook study that showed when people read positive updates, they too tend to publish positive content. When …more
It’s that time of the year. About 19.9 million college graduates are about to descend on civilization with shiny apples in hand. Unfortunately, the demand versus supply equation doesn’t work in their favor. Finding that elusive first job puts a premium on the resume and its associated cover letter. No university invited me to deliver …more
Remember the revolt from journalists when The Atlantic published a native ad on that “wonderful” organization known as Scientology? Putting the disdain from journalists to the side, by appearing to be editorial content to many readers the ad did trigger more clicks, which in turn generated more revenue. I thought the phrase “ecclesiastical leader” was …more
The reason PR fails at storytelling often has nothing to do with understanding the makings of a good story or writing expertise. Instead, the root cause can lie in the interviewing process for sourcing the content. If you don’t get this upfront step right — pull out the type of content that the outside world …more
Showing knowledge that transcends zone blitzes and optimizing the price point of a 12-ounce domestic beer, the New England Patriots jumped into the content marketing game last week. New England created a microsite to defend Tom Brady’s honor and the integrity of the franchise after the Wells Report reignited Deflategate. For the 27 Americans out …more
