Archive for October, 2010

Ghost Tweeting: Who are you really listening to? Do you care?

Tuesday, October 26th, 2010

In many of the online forums I frequent debate rages over the practice of “ghost tweeting”–communicators who work either within a corporate environment or on a contract basis to maintain the accounts of their bosses or clients. It’s the type of activity that has been going on for years in the corporate and political world. As director of corporate communications in the energy and health care industries, I’ve frequently been the “voice” of CEOs, executives and other spokespeople. It’s common and accepted practice, at least among communicators and those they speak on behalf of… But, what about the “uninformed public” and often misinformed media, particularly “citizen journalists.” Do they know who they’re really listening to and who they may be quoting? Does it matter? (more…)

Sometimes “Snail Mail” is Still the Best Way to Go

Sunday, October 24th, 2010

I’ve recently begun working in earnest on an update to my 1992 book A Small Business Guide to Direct Mail. The update will be significantly revised and will be titled Direct Mail for the Digital Age. A lot has happened in the direct mail industry since 1992–most notably the advent of email marketing which opens up many new opportunities for marketers. Very cost effective opportunities. (more…)

The Value of an ELetter or Newsletter

Tuesday, October 5th, 2010
During a recent conversation with a client, while talking about her new web site and ways to use the site to interact more with prospects and clients, she recalled that I had recommended an eletter at one point. But, she admitted that she really didn’t see the value of using a tool like that for her audience (and that may well be true given her communication goals and specific market).  Still, the conversation made me reflect on all of the reasons that I feel that eletters (or even the old, traditional, print newsletter) can be very useful communication tools for marketers and why it’s worth the bother to create one on a regular basis. (more…)

Social Media Best Practices

Sunday, October 3rd, 2010
I was fortunate to attend a local Chamber social media conference recently with a wide variety of speakers (I was one of them!), and I picked up some great tips I wanted to share here.    (more…)