Brand Strategy: What’s your ONE big thing?
I was reminded this past week, on a few different occasions, that the art of positioning is based on the ability to narrow focus and to let go. In a meeting with a new client who was struggling to clearly define the services his company provided and to whom, it became clear that his biggest challenge was in positioning. In his attempt to be more service-oriented and have greater reach, the company tried to become too many things to too many types of customers, and the brand lost relevance.
A simplified logo for eBay
Last week, eBay unveiled a new logo, a re-design intended to reflect a shift by the online marketplace away from auctions and collectibles toward full-priced, buy-it-now merchandise. In a note on eBay’s website, president Devin Wenig said, “Seventeen years ago, eBay created a new way for people to buy and sell. Since that time, we’ve enabled millions of people to launch their own businesses, and helped change the way the world shops for things they need and love. We’re pleased to introduce our refreshed logo. It reflects who we are today — a global online marketplace that offers a cleaner, more contemporary and consistent experience.”
Brand Identity: AWADEG Logo
LinkedIn Company Pages

Just under a year ago in November 2011 LinkedIn updated the capabilities of their company pages, enabling company pages to have followers and enabling company admins to share status updates with their followers. This enabled companies, and especially small companies, to become more engaged with their LinkedIn networks.
The Apple Store experience for your advisory business.

I recently treated myself to an ipad. But what I find myself thinking a lot about is just how nice my buying experience was with it. Add to that, the fact that half the businesses we work with have, at one point or another, asked us to make them the Apple of their industry. A daunting request. But we know what they are asking for when they say it. They want to be a leader, to be different, to be about more than just exchange of services for renumeration, but mostly I think they want to be liked and successful.
Brand Identity: AIPT Logo and Brochure
Brand Identity: ABCT Logo
Running a Business and Fahrenheit 451
. . . and why you need to take some time off.
It’s the end of August, often thought of as a slow time for advisors and consultants –– and, well, business in general, as people take vacations and prepare for school. Interestingly, this year, we haven’t really noticed a let up. Networking events have been packed to the gills, clients have been calling with new projects, and we all seem to be busy. Even some of the lucky few who have been able to get away manage to answer emails or take calls. One colleague joked that he wasn’t in a hurry for a proposal because he had one more day to collect sand between his toes (yet he responded to my email in record time). So we’re on vacation, but are we really on vacation?
7 Tips For A More Effective Email Campaign
We all receive them and we all send them. Some more than others, but for the most they are an integral part of conducting business on a daily basis. What are they? Emails! Emails are meant to engage, excite or inspire your current and potential clients but can have the opposite effect of what you were aiming for if you don’t follow some simple rules.
Break the habit; a world of ideas is waiting for you.
I walk into Starbucks and without thinking I place my order, a Grande in a Venti cup iced Starbucks Double Shot with two Splendas, non-fat milk, and room. I guess there is only one way to put this – I am a creature of habit! I know I am not alone; most people follow a daily routine and are creatures of habit. Perhaps you, too, drink the same coffee every morning, or you wake up every morning, read the newspaper, drive to work, read your emails, and then get on with the tasks you need to accomplish.







