I have been talking about connections and brands that influence me and have an impact on my life both positive and negative. But, how about disconnecting? Not letting any brands in.
This past weekend I decided to unplug from the broadcast world, the digital world, the print world, and the mobile world.
Did I miss anything? Probably. Did I miss anything important? Possibly. Did I miss anything that I could not live without? Nope. Did I miss anything that would have made my weekend better? No way.
My in-laws came to town on Friday and we spent the evening talking and catching up. We had not seen them for almost 2 months. It was a relaxing way to end a busy week.
On Saturday our daughter had a soccer game about 30 minutes from home. No radio blasting. No kids with their heads down playing on my iPhone. And I didn't have my head buried in the iPhone either - checking emails, getting sports scores, or making sure I checked in at the Blaine Sports Complex via FourSquare. My wife was amazed.
Saturday evening was spent playing board games like Apples to Apples and Spongebob Monopoly. No TV or radio on in the background. Only the sound of our family and laughter, and maybe a little fighting between our two kids.
On Sunday, our daughter had her 1st Communion at church. We had the entire Dahlgren clan over on a beautiful afternoon. Outside shooting hoops, playing on the trampoline, and having conversations that did not require talking over the radio in the garage.
My goal is to disconnect at least one weekend a month. Why don't you try too? You actually might find little rewards along the way and and some big ones too.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
Saturday, March 27, 2010
McDonald's Filet O Fish
McDonald's Filet O Fish
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5_mt_Cdz5o&feature=related
I hate to say it, but that is a "catchy" tune. McDonald's doesn't have to worry about the frequency of the message. I'll never get sick of it.
Out of the blue I have found myself singing it the car. I don't even like those square fish. And I don't sing very well either.
I will pay attention every time the ad comes on TV. I have actually stopped fast-forwarding through a DVR'd show to rewind and watch it again and again. It is a DVR-busting TV spot.
If companies/marketers make commercials that consumers like, consumers will pay attention and engage.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c5_mt_Cdz5o&feature=related
I hate to say it, but that is a "catchy" tune. McDonald's doesn't have to worry about the frequency of the message. I'll never get sick of it.
Out of the blue I have found myself singing it the car. I don't even like those square fish. And I don't sing very well either.
I will pay attention every time the ad comes on TV. I have actually stopped fast-forwarding through a DVR'd show to rewind and watch it again and again. It is a DVR-busting TV spot.
If companies/marketers make commercials that consumers like, consumers will pay attention and engage.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Mobile Ads: Google and PayPal
Google Social Search
While I heard about Google's Social Search months ago I have not taken the time to really set it up. That is, until I saw their small text ad while I was playing a game on my iPhone.
This was the first time that I had ever clicked on a mobile ad (or at least intentionally). When you are taking a little leisure time, for example playing games, I believe it is more likely that you will take a minute or two to click on a ad (if it is relevant). Smart placement.
After learning more I realized that this is just one additional way for Google to learn more about you and your "social circles." Their grip is tightening.
I took the first step by creating a Google Profile and will see how this actually works in "real life." Here are a couple links on YouTube that will help you learn more.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlpTjP6h6Ms
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqWJxgp-_mU&feature=channel
Oh, and if you want to know more about the new Google Goggles, a visual search engine, see link below. Very cool technology. Too bad it is just for Android phone.
http://www.google.com/mobile/goggles/#landmark
PayPal's Mobile App
I am not sure if this is going to be a trend, but the next day I clicked on a second mobile ad. It was for PayPal's Mobile service. I did not pay much attention to this capability when it came out. Probably because I did not have a phone that could use the technology.
Now that I have an iPhone I wanted to learn more. Again, this was great ad placement. A mobile app ad on a mobile phone. Genius!
I clicked on a link at the bottom of the ad to watch additional video. It sent me to a extended version of the mobile ad on YouTube. The video was simple and made it easy to understand the basics (similar to the Google Social Search video). After the video was over it went to a type of landing page that summarized the app. I was interested and was going to try it out.
However, the landing page also provided a place to "Rate, comment, or flag." I started reading some of the comments. They ranged from "awesome" to "lame." I would have to say a majority of the comments were negative, some extremely negative.
Commentors brought up potential concerns and problems, like strangers hacking or stealing your phone and taking all your money. Whether this is true or not, it made me rethink dowloading and trying out the app. I will need to research this a little more.
This is a perfect example where a markerter/company should pay attention to what consumers are saying about them online, and when negative (incorrect) comments are made they should provide answers (correct info). Whether the consumers believe it or not, they will know that PayPal is listening. They might want to check out an online listening company like Radian6.
Let me know if you have ever used an online listening company. What did you think of them?
While I heard about Google's Social Search months ago I have not taken the time to really set it up. That is, until I saw their small text ad while I was playing a game on my iPhone.
This was the first time that I had ever clicked on a mobile ad (or at least intentionally). When you are taking a little leisure time, for example playing games, I believe it is more likely that you will take a minute or two to click on a ad (if it is relevant). Smart placement.
After learning more I realized that this is just one additional way for Google to learn more about you and your "social circles." Their grip is tightening.
I took the first step by creating a Google Profile and will see how this actually works in "real life." Here are a couple links on YouTube that will help you learn more.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BlpTjP6h6Ms
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqWJxgp-_mU&feature=channel
Oh, and if you want to know more about the new Google Goggles, a visual search engine, see link below. Very cool technology. Too bad it is just for Android phone.
http://www.google.com/mobile/goggles/#landmark
PayPal's Mobile App
I am not sure if this is going to be a trend, but the next day I clicked on a second mobile ad. It was for PayPal's Mobile service. I did not pay much attention to this capability when it came out. Probably because I did not have a phone that could use the technology.
Now that I have an iPhone I wanted to learn more. Again, this was great ad placement. A mobile app ad on a mobile phone. Genius!
I clicked on a link at the bottom of the ad to watch additional video. It sent me to a extended version of the mobile ad on YouTube. The video was simple and made it easy to understand the basics (similar to the Google Social Search video). After the video was over it went to a type of landing page that summarized the app. I was interested and was going to try it out.
However, the landing page also provided a place to "Rate, comment, or flag." I started reading some of the comments. They ranged from "awesome" to "lame." I would have to say a majority of the comments were negative, some extremely negative.
Commentors brought up potential concerns and problems, like strangers hacking or stealing your phone and taking all your money. Whether this is true or not, it made me rethink dowloading and trying out the app. I will need to research this a little more.
This is a perfect example where a markerter/company should pay attention to what consumers are saying about them online, and when negative (incorrect) comments are made they should provide answers (correct info). Whether the consumers believe it or not, they will know that PayPal is listening. They might want to check out an online listening company like Radian6.
Let me know if you have ever used an online listening company. What did you think of them?
Thursday, March 11, 2010
7-Up = Throw Up
Is 7-UP really "Ridicuously Bubbly?" They have placed enough billboards throughout the Twin Cities to get my attention and for me to recall these two words of copy, but can these billboards overcome my childhood assocation with the brand?
Everytime I was sick as a kid it seemed like I had soup, crackers, and 7-Up. Now, just like Pavlov's dog, I associate the bubbly drink with being sick. Sorry 7-Up, blame my Mom.
This is a situation that brands face everyday, this is a situtation that brands want to control, and this particular situation is going to be a tough one.
Part of advertising is to create a positive assocation between a brand and a certain feelings, beliefs, knowledge, values, or a particular activities. Unfortunately, in this case, the activity is throwing up.
Let me know if you have any strong brand assocations, specifically from childhood.
Everytime I was sick as a kid it seemed like I had soup, crackers, and 7-Up. Now, just like Pavlov's dog, I associate the bubbly drink with being sick. Sorry 7-Up, blame my Mom.
This is a situation that brands face everyday, this is a situtation that brands want to control, and this particular situation is going to be a tough one.
Part of advertising is to create a positive assocation between a brand and a certain feelings, beliefs, knowledge, values, or a particular activities. Unfortunately, in this case, the activity is throwing up.
Let me know if you have any strong brand assocations, specifically from childhood.
Thursday, March 4, 2010
A Free Burrito at Chipotle?
I love Chipotle. Now I love them even more.
I typically end up going to Chipotle 3 or 4 times a month. I think they put something in those Chicken Burritos that is addictive. Also, it doesn't help that there is one 236 feet from our office.
Yesterday I was drawn to Chipotle, maybe because I had not been there for 10 days. I ordered my Chicken Burrito and made it to the end of the line to pay. I pulled out my cash card and it did not work. It had expired 2 days ago.
The cashier talked to the manager (in Spanish) so I was not sure exactly what was said. I told them that I could come back with my checkbook (just in case you were not paying attention, I work 236 feet away). The manager said "no" you can just have it. I was dumbfounded, said thank you very much, and left the restaurant shocked and a little stunned.
I don't think, in my entire 39 year life as a consumer, that has ever happened. I still don't really believe it.
I am sure you are not surprised that I have been telling everyone I know about this amazing act of customer service (not sure if you can even call it customer service). And I am sure they are telling their friends and family as well.
On a related note, whenever I head over to Chipotle I realize that the radio spot from probably 2 years ago is still vividly in my head. "I'm going to Chipotle and have a burrito." I have heard some other radio spots from them since, but I can't tell you anything about them.
It was a catchy tune, it took advantage of radio media, I heard it frequently, and I was not irritated by it. At that time I don't think I had even been to a Chipotle. It influenced me to try it out. It helped make me a fan. And it is automatically recalled each time I head over there for lunch.
Did I tell you that I have their iPhone app?
Let me know if you had a "customer service" experience as good as this one.
I typically end up going to Chipotle 3 or 4 times a month. I think they put something in those Chicken Burritos that is addictive. Also, it doesn't help that there is one 236 feet from our office.
Yesterday I was drawn to Chipotle, maybe because I had not been there for 10 days. I ordered my Chicken Burrito and made it to the end of the line to pay. I pulled out my cash card and it did not work. It had expired 2 days ago.
The cashier talked to the manager (in Spanish) so I was not sure exactly what was said. I told them that I could come back with my checkbook (just in case you were not paying attention, I work 236 feet away). The manager said "no" you can just have it. I was dumbfounded, said thank you very much, and left the restaurant shocked and a little stunned.
I don't think, in my entire 39 year life as a consumer, that has ever happened. I still don't really believe it.
I am sure you are not surprised that I have been telling everyone I know about this amazing act of customer service (not sure if you can even call it customer service). And I am sure they are telling their friends and family as well.
On a related note, whenever I head over to Chipotle I realize that the radio spot from probably 2 years ago is still vividly in my head. "I'm going to Chipotle and have a burrito." I have heard some other radio spots from them since, but I can't tell you anything about them.
It was a catchy tune, it took advantage of radio media, I heard it frequently, and I was not irritated by it. At that time I don't think I had even been to a Chipotle. It influenced me to try it out. It helped make me a fan. And it is automatically recalled each time I head over there for lunch.
Did I tell you that I have their iPhone app?
Let me know if you had a "customer service" experience as good as this one.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
White Castle & Undercover Boss, Olympics & The Marriage Ref
White Castle
I don't see much advertising or marketing by White Castle, even though we have a few locations around Minneapolis. Therefore, they are not typically top of mind. However, social media has allowed me to stay in touch with them and find out what is happening. It's a beautiful thing.
I was checking out my feeds on Facebook this morning and White Castle was promoting Undercover Boss. The company and CEO are featured in the upcoming episode. I have seen TV spots or promos (yes, TV still works) for Undercover Boss, but have not watched it yet. I think I'll try to catch the next episdoe. Here the combination of TV and social media has increased my interest in the program.
White Castle is a brand with passionate consumers. It is interesting to view the comments that their fans are making on Facebook. Most of them are asking White Castle to open up a location in their city. Check out how many posts they get from fans: http://bit.ly/avfWDD
The Marriage Ref
If you have been watching the Olympics and have not heard about The Marriage Ref, have you really been paying attention? Did you know that Canada and the U.S. hockey teams are playing for the gold on Sunday?
I like Jerry Seinfeld (big fan of the old Seinfeld show), but for some reason I am not that interested in this new one. I think the reason is that the TV spot does not really tell me what the show is about. Maybe I am not paying attention.
I might try to catch the first episode, but it is not a priority. Word-of-mouth from my friends could be the way that I get more engaged with the show. I'll let you know.
http://www.nbc.com/the-marriage-ref/video/clips/jerry-sets-up-the-show/1199290/
Are you a wacko for White Castle? What Olympic event has engaged you the most? Are you going to watch The Marriage Ref? Let me know.
I don't see much advertising or marketing by White Castle, even though we have a few locations around Minneapolis. Therefore, they are not typically top of mind. However, social media has allowed me to stay in touch with them and find out what is happening. It's a beautiful thing.
I was checking out my feeds on Facebook this morning and White Castle was promoting Undercover Boss. The company and CEO are featured in the upcoming episode. I have seen TV spots or promos (yes, TV still works) for Undercover Boss, but have not watched it yet. I think I'll try to catch the next episdoe. Here the combination of TV and social media has increased my interest in the program.
White Castle is a brand with passionate consumers. It is interesting to view the comments that their fans are making on Facebook. Most of them are asking White Castle to open up a location in their city. Check out how many posts they get from fans: http://bit.ly/avfWDD
The Marriage Ref
If you have been watching the Olympics and have not heard about The Marriage Ref, have you really been paying attention? Did you know that Canada and the U.S. hockey teams are playing for the gold on Sunday?
I like Jerry Seinfeld (big fan of the old Seinfeld show), but for some reason I am not that interested in this new one. I think the reason is that the TV spot does not really tell me what the show is about. Maybe I am not paying attention.
I might try to catch the first episode, but it is not a priority. Word-of-mouth from my friends could be the way that I get more engaged with the show. I'll let you know.
http://www.nbc.com/the-marriage-ref/video/clips/jerry-sets-up-the-show/1199290/
Are you a wacko for White Castle? What Olympic event has engaged you the most? Are you going to watch The Marriage Ref? Let me know.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
NBC Olympics App & V-Day on Facebook
NBC's Olympics iPhone App
I was searching iTunes for the "Top Free" iPhone apps and saw NBC's Olympics application. I downloaded it knowing that I would not be able to catch much of the Olympics over this next week, due to family activities (travel basketball and a vacation).
This app will make it easy for me to keep up-to-date on the Olympics. It is a great idea by NBC and has a number of different features including Top Stories, medals counts, videos/photos, social networking by Team US athletes. These features are available for the Olympics in general and for each sport individually.
Today I was able to watch footage of Hannah Kearney winning a gold medal and keep current with Men's Moguls Freestyle Skiing. By the way, this event is in progress and Bryon Wilson of USA is currently in third.
Within the app I noticed some mobile banner ads for Coke, Toyota and Visa. I clicked on the Visa ad because it was a sweepstakes entry to win a trip to the Olympic Winter Games - for life. It linked to Visa's own iPhone app which provides content on the Olympic athletes that they sponsor (Team Visa). I spent a little time here, but not sure why I would go back to get updates on "their" athletes when I have access to the full Olympics through NBC.
Facebook and Valentine's Day.
I am wondering why so many brands simply provide a Happy Valentine's Day post on Facebook. That is all it says. I guess it is easy, but it doesn't do much in terms of making a deeper connection with me. I saw this for brands like KISS (the rock group), Nokia, Doritos, and SeaWorld.
At least Six Flags Great Adventure included a little more that I could engage with. They tied into the fact that Valentine's Day and the Chinese New Year (Year of the Tiger) both fall on February 14, so they had a link to content that showed the affectionate bond that exists between tigers and their trainers. http://bit.ly/cmsMbZ
And Verizon was celebrating Valentine's Day by asking consumers to "follow @vcastmusic on Twitter today and let them know what's your favorite love song. One lucky follower will receive a Valentine's Day phone call from J-Records/Sony artist Mario! Follow them now http://www.twitter.com/vcastmusic" Nice. Keep the "value" coming.
I was searching iTunes for the "Top Free" iPhone apps and saw NBC's Olympics application. I downloaded it knowing that I would not be able to catch much of the Olympics over this next week, due to family activities (travel basketball and a vacation).
This app will make it easy for me to keep up-to-date on the Olympics. It is a great idea by NBC and has a number of different features including Top Stories, medals counts, videos/photos, social networking by Team US athletes. These features are available for the Olympics in general and for each sport individually.
Today I was able to watch footage of Hannah Kearney winning a gold medal and keep current with Men's Moguls Freestyle Skiing. By the way, this event is in progress and Bryon Wilson of USA is currently in third.
Within the app I noticed some mobile banner ads for Coke, Toyota and Visa. I clicked on the Visa ad because it was a sweepstakes entry to win a trip to the Olympic Winter Games - for life. It linked to Visa's own iPhone app which provides content on the Olympic athletes that they sponsor (Team Visa). I spent a little time here, but not sure why I would go back to get updates on "their" athletes when I have access to the full Olympics through NBC.
Facebook and Valentine's Day.
I am wondering why so many brands simply provide a Happy Valentine's Day post on Facebook. That is all it says. I guess it is easy, but it doesn't do much in terms of making a deeper connection with me. I saw this for brands like KISS (the rock group), Nokia, Doritos, and SeaWorld.
At least Six Flags Great Adventure included a little more that I could engage with. They tied into the fact that Valentine's Day and the Chinese New Year (Year of the Tiger) both fall on February 14, so they had a link to content that showed the affectionate bond that exists between tigers and their trainers. http://bit.ly/cmsMbZ
And Verizon was celebrating Valentine's Day by asking consumers to "follow @vcastmusic on Twitter today and let them know what's your favorite love song. One lucky follower will receive a Valentine's Day phone call from J-Records/Sony artist Mario! Follow them now http://www.twitter.com/vcastmusic" Nice. Keep the "value" coming.
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