Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Icebreaker

Love the music of the new Usha sewing machines commercial. Really Indian classical and soothing to the ears. It's a nice simple ad, no frills and makes a point subtley about its presence.

Can't say the same about the Prestige ad though. Its an exact replica of the Futura ad. Maybe an attempt to reiterate its leadership in the category. But, as market leader shouldn't you be setting a trend and not following it? And even if you do observe and follow, atleast do it differently!

The new Docomo 3G introduction ad is not great shakes, I mean its feel good and stuff but I particularly did like in this piece of commercial was the last slot when the guy finds the needle in the haystack.That thought is profound and amazing.

Speaking of 3G, yesterday's Times of India carried an article with a headline that stated that the 3G rates were going to be 66p/sec. I was very curious and wondered how it could be that expensive and quickly delved into the write-up, only to realise that it was 0.66p/sec and not 66p/sec. Times of India needs to seriously realise the tremendous faith people have placed on its shoulders as a bearer of true news and the least they could do is have their desk team proof read and copy check the headlines for starters! Ofcourse, if this was done deliberately in order to grab eyeballs...I am sorry, but I am just plain let down.

Tried the skittle.uk application facebook yesterday and thought it was good fun! Loved the whole call centre scenario happening in the background. Really interesting and interactive.

Looking forward to more innovation and ice breaking thoughts!

Obamania

A brand manager's fantasy come true.

Barrack Hussein Obama. The most powerful man in the world at the moment. 44th President of the United States.

The power comes from the title itself. Strong.Commanding.Forceful.

But, what about brand Obama? The charisma, the charm.

The Obama campaign is a genius in marketing excellence. It makes for one of the most interesting case studies.

The planning, the execution - all so perfect. Short term tactics, long term strategies - ingenious.

Despite all the odds being against him - being black, Muslim middle name, Kenyan- everything that Americans hate. They still chose him. This success can only be attributed to the brilliant marketing campaign.

What I liked especially was the superb market segmentation and targeting. That was so spot on. Huge thumbs up for using the digital medium and viral so constructively for the cause.

It paid off rich dividends and the rest as they say is history. Joy to Obamania.

Kiss and Tell

Observe the brand space around.

Every moment there is so much happening. What goes around, comes around and essentially the market is flooded with hordes of me toos doing the rounds.

Somethings just catch your eye and hold onto your attention. As a consumer. Most things just fail to do so.

Why? There seems to be a genuine dearth of ideas. Strange. Is it because companies are unwilling to risk anything new for fear of failure?

Wish more brands had clarity of their goals and plans. Simplicity in their thought process. Creativity  in their execution.

Most marketing spaces being used by marketers for their beloved brands seem to be lacking that touch of relevance to the real needs of the brand. Once that is cracked, half the problem is sorted.

Research is the key. And more than mere numbers in terms of quantitative analysis. In-depth qualitative research will throw light into the underlying nuances of the brand.

Dig deeper dear brand custodians and the battle is won. Go ahead now, kiss and tell.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

Season Sales

We had joy, we had fun, we had seasons in the sun...I love that song.

I am sure every marketeer in India must be happily humming just that right now at this very moment.

Diwali, the festival of lights is a great time to sell as it is viewed as a great time to buy.

People - nay consumers right out the old and ring in the new. New curtains, new sofas, new utensils, fresh coat of paint, that home theatre system, the latest car that has hit the stands, long visits to the parlour, dream holiday in a great package tour...every seller has a field day!

"Season" sales as it is so aptly termed. Its a time to rejoice. It a time to revel. It a time to rake in the moolah.

Marketers get to showcase their best work. Advertisers put their best creative foot forward. Brands are shining.

The stock market rockets to a new high. Trade pandits and temple pandits alike have a great business going.

The consumer doesn't mind putting all his savings into that dream home. The jewellers are gleefully doling out gold at new highs.

Everyone- the buyer and seller alike is high on life. And consumerism.

Swagatam festive season. Shubh Deepavali folks!