Psst! 5 Marketing Secrets You Can Copy from the Big Guys

In the continuing spirit of passing along useful marketing and branding information, the May/June issue of Successful Promotions Magazine has an article entitled, "Psst! 5 Marketing Secrets You Can Copy from the Big Guys". The 5 secrets (with my comments following each) are:

1) A little attitude goes a long way.

A bit of edgy attitude can be a powerful and compelling part of your brand's personality.

2) Say something different.

This tip is classic positioning strategy. As I've stated before, your brands must communicate and promise unique value not found anywhere else. If you claim a unique position, it naturally follows that your brand can make claims not found anywhere else.

3) Viral Marketing doesn't have to be online.

There are plenty of ways to take advantage of offline viral marketing opportunities.

4) Be consistent with your brand message.

Use an Integrated Marketing Communications strategy to ensure your brand is communicating the same things consistently across all media.

5) Engagement of consumers, whether you're a big or small company, doesn't have to cost a lot.

Customer interaction and intimacy can and should be achieved through your branding. You should be able to find cost-effective ways to open the lines of communication with your customers.

The article also included 4 ways to stay in business (again, with my comments following each):

1) Stay true to your brand.

Let your guide be the answer to the question, "What is in the best interest of the brand?", when making critical decisions. Deliver on your brand promises every time -- without fail.

2) Stay with the same look.

Trust me, you will get tired of your look and communications long before your customers do. The only way to know if it is time to refine your message or look is to conduct research. Resist the urge to change for as long as you can because a consistent look helps build trust, awareness and brand loyalty.

3) Stay in touch with your customers' needs.

I don't even need to add anything to this one. Your brand is nothing if it is not in touch with customer needs.

4) Stay on target.

Never waiver from understanding, communicating, and supporting your brands' core values.