Rodents of Unusual Size and a Pathetic Blog

I apologize that I didn't have time to put together a proper blog this week. (I know you were getting concerned; it is Thursday already.) I'm just crazy-busy this week. (My right eye is twitching as I type and my deadlines are looming.) But I did tell my sister I was going to blog about this invitation she gave me... weeks ago... so here you are.  Enjoy!

Marketing Materials that Get a Second Look: GoToMeeting, Ultimat, and Worldwide ERC

GoToMeeting

 “The only thing missing is a handshake.” I bet that line of copy got a lot of discussion at Citrix and the ad agency that worked with them. Businesspeople know how important a handshake is. But half an ads job is to get your attention. The smaller copy sells you on the idea that you can instantly collaborate face to face with GoToMeeting.

Ultimat

 

This vodka ad does a great job at appealing to prestige and tells you “you deserve this,” in an indirect way. The copy, “Find balance. Find Ultimat.” Insinuates that all work and no play makes for a very dull person.

Worldwide ERC

You might be surprised by what caught my attention in this ad. It is the way the woman is pictured, specifically her long hair. I have long hair and sometimes feel it’s viewed as “unprofessional” especially when it was as long as this woman’s. The primary message of this ad is that businesses require the talent they hire to relocate and that employees expect flexibility, specifically with mobile work possibilities. The main copy of the ad is written more like a news article and less like a sales pitch. Though the page clearly says, “Special Advertising Section” at the top, the best marketing is still marketing that doesn’t look like marketing. 

What ads have made you take a second look? Please share in the comments below.

Mail I Don’t Mind, Marketing Materials Reviewed from by Mailbox

This snail mail invitation from ThedaCare is creative, eye-catching, and has an irresistible offer.

I am not a “couponer.” But this ad from Tide didn’t get overlooked by me because it was direct-mailed to me. The design is creative and inviting. Who wouldn’t open the washer door? The inside of the door featured a coupon that even I might use. Great job Tide!

Want your marketing piece reviewed? Email it to Terra L. Fletcher, terra(at)fletcherfreelance(dot)com.

Product Placement, Sony and Spider-Man

If you haven’t seen Spider-Man yet, here’s a reason to. Sony has its own superpower in this action movie. You’ll notice the tech firm’s gadgets everywhere. Apple? Not around. Sony’s product placement in the movie shows up in the form of the Xperia mini pro smartphone. Peter Parker uses it to make calls, listen to a police broadcast, and play games.

 

Other scenes are stolen (or bought) by Sony, too. Spectators of a heroic escapade record via Xperia. Two youngsters watch a video from a Tablet S. Oddly enough, the movie’s nemesis is a Sony fan, too. He’s seen with a Sony Vaio laptop, Sony Handycam, and Sony monitor. (I would not object to anyone who wanted to buy me a pink Vaio laptop.)

 

 

As a prelude, Sony marketed the Xperia with commercials featuring Spider-Man.

Notice any product placements lately? Please share in the comments below.