Famous Allison's Fantastic Accounts

Back!

2012-01-31T14:34:00.003-05:00

It would be a shame to abandon a blog that's captured many years of professional adventures...so, I've decided to return (if only for an occasional update or rant!)

Besides, what would one think if my last blog post ever were to be entitled "for the love of doughnuts!" Probably something to the effect of, "she must have eaten herself into a coma."

Not quite, but my travel and travail from that point in 2010 to this very day will forever remain a mystery due to my blacked-out blogging.

I suppose eventually the online world becomes littered with gavestones of many digital endeavors for all of us, but if for no other reason than my love of tradition and all things nostalgic, I'm back to blogger.

For the love of doughnuts

2010-09-14T13:47:00.001-04:00

Today is national doughnut day. As I walked in the door the sweet, sweet smell of sugar, frosting and fried goodness wafted towards me and all but pushed me in the office kitchen.

One glazed doughnut and extreme sugar rush later, I realized that I LOVE manufactured holidays like National Doughnut day. Who cares that a consortium of doughnut makers collaborated, and maybe even schemed, to put this holiday on the map? I don’t. My stomach didn’t. My jeans might later, but that’s a different story.

The point is, today is a day to appreciate doughnuts in all their glory. Bernard’s bakery in Newport is a great place for some fresh doughnuts. As is the doughnut shop in Lebanon. In fact, if you drop by the Doughnut Shop at 4am, they’ll sometimes give you yesterday’s doughnuts for free.

So, why NOT celebrate? Glazed, powdered, jelly-filled, sprinkled, crème-filled, frosted…DELICIOUS!

A likely extension

2010-08-24T17:35:00.002-04:00

So I’m not going to lie, when I heard Chad Ochocinco was making a TV show, I was intrigued. And I’m also going to confess that I was a little giddy when they filmed the second to last episode in town, gracing not one but two local hotels. (Duh, I know, however you couldn’t imagine my disappointment they didn’t film the entire show in Cincinnati- highlighting some of my favorite haunts!)

But, when I heard Chad was making a foray into the breakfast arena I was undoubtedly confused. Admittedly, I was hoping for something a little more eccentric- maybe football shaped marshmallows or something of the like, but I’m sure we’ll all enjoy a good OchocincO a few mornings out of the week.

But, the more I think about it, it’s a playful extension to the larger-than-life brand that is the man himself. Why wouldn’t he have a cereal, and come to think of it, why don’t I?

Alli-o’s. or Alli-flakes? Why not.

I can’t help but be reminded of Krusty the clown on the Simpsons who had a line extension for everything from toys to drain cleaner, and of course his very own, aptly named cereal, ‘Krusty-o’s’ .

Hopefully Mr.Ochocinco will experience equally great success with his line extension endeavors…at least he has a better name to capitalize on…and decided upon O’s instead of Flakes.

http://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/blog/2010/08/bengals_chad_ochocinco_launching_cereal_line.html?ana=e_du_pub

New Favorite Commercial

2010-08-01T17:31:00.002-04:00

While not exactly fresh out of the studio, this commercial has really grown on me over the past few days. Droid X is the latest smartphone goliath from Motorola with a buildup and ad buget almost as large as the hype surrounding it.

It's not touting any features or presenting any differentiating factors, but the ad flows with the production quality of a mini-movie in HD, with a soundtrack and everything. HD is the future of advertising, and creativity like this makes a commercial break a little more enjoyable.

It’s a new chapter

2010-06-03T14:13:00.002-04:00

Not without much consideration, deliberation and sadness that I have elected to give up my position as PR manager at The Eisen Agency.

Many years of awesomeness have gone by in a flash, and this team will always be like family to me…though they could at least wait for me to be out of my office before they start fighting for it ;) .

To my former clients, my co-workers and friends- it’s been great, and I hope that no one is a stranger. I also hope what lies in store for me is as exciting, uplifting and adventurous as the memories I have created here.

…stay tuned… posts, adventures and more news will continue as I begin a new phase. Everyone will be very missed, but I can't wait to see the agency's continued success. It's a dangerously talented firm full of great people. Where I go next has a lot to live up to. :)

The Great Marketing Circus

2010-05-25T10:39:00.003-04:00

Ever feel like the ring leader of a three-ring circus? Like you're a magician expected to make things happen out of thin air? Well...surprisingly, you're not alone. How marketing, and PR especially, compares to a circus- in my new article, "The Great Marketing Circus- PR's magic, revealed!"

The marketing arena can easily be compared to a three-ring circus. A few clowns, a few death-defying leaps and the ring leader is expected to single-handedly bring it all together. Of course, we can’t forget the one person everyone expects to see - the great magician: shrouded in mystery, quite dramatic and never without ability to manifest greatness from thin air at the drop of a hat.

So, in a recent RFP, when the company asked what PR “tricks” our agency had up our sleeves, I came to the stunning realization that there really are people out there who believe that the practice of public relations is truly magical...

Read the rest at examiner.com:

http://www.examiner.com/x-2136-NY-Marketing-and-PR-Examiner~y2010m5d25-The-Great-Marketing-Circus-PRs-magic-revealed

New Article: Solving the Water Crisis Begins at Home

2010-05-11T09:43:00.004-04:00

I've written a new article with the help of our friends at Roto-Rooter about water conservation. Thanks to some new technologies, conserving doesn't necessarily doing without. Check it out, courtesy of Blue Planet Green Living...

Solving the Water Crisis Begins at Home

By now, the world water crisis shouldn’t be surprising news. Many of us already donate to clean water funds, well-building activities, and water-saving causes. But if we have leaky toilets, outdated plumbing, or wasteful faucet drips, we’re actually contributing to the problem we’re trying to solve.

The US Geological Survey estimates that leaking toilets can lose around 22 gallons per day. This translates into about 8,000 gallons of wasted water per year. To put that number into perspective, that’s enough water to fill a display tank at your local aquarium.

With so many stray drips and drops, it’s of little wonder that many American communities are experiencing water shortages. In 2009, the National Climatic Data Center (NCDC) reported a drought throughout numerous Southwest and Great Plains states resulting in five billion dollars in damages. By 2013, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that 36 states will experience water shortages.

See the full article below:
http://www.blueplanetgreenliving.com/2010/05/10/solving-the-water-crisis/

Flash Mob

2010-05-05T08:55:00.003-04:00

The flash mob. Simply put, a really cool way for people to get together in random places and dance. Monday there was a flash mob in the new Ohio Union on Ohio State's campus...it even included a cameo of Brutus buckeye!

Great way to remind alums that the new is union is open through word of mouth marketing and to showcase the smooth moves Ohio State students have. Ok, I'm just a little biased. But really, watch it...you'll want to share this with your friends!

One of America’s most stressful jobs…this year

2010-04-27T14:21:00.000-04:00

CNBC just came out with their list of America’s most stressful jobs for 2010 and Public Relations Officers are #8. Something about the title “public relations officer” makes me giggle, but nonetheless, I was amused that my career of choice graced the list.
And indeed, there is stress. Things get crazy when newsworthy tidbits pop up at the last minute, when we’re hit with unrealistic expectations, asked to make news where isn’t any and of course, work miracles on a small budget…after all, PR is “free”, right?

Competition is high and tempers are short. Yeah, the job has its moments. But in the end, I’d rather someone respect PR for being stressful than call it “event planning.”

Advertising Executives also made the list, just slightly down from commercial pilots, surgeons and corporate executives…positions that I had believed to be much more esteemed in the public eye. After all, our portrayal often spurs the image of a slimy flack ready to ‘spin’ on a moment’s notice. Glad to see that might finally be starting to change.

See the list here:
http://www.cnbc.com/id/36715336?slide=4

Introducing...

2010-04-21T15:58:00.003-04:00

ROTOGreen,a water conservation program from North America's largest plumbing and drain service provider. The company has set a goal of installing 10,000 water saving fixtures by the end of the year, which would have the potential to save tens of millions of gallons of water.

To prove that its green program is more than just talk, Roto-Rooter is profiling four families on its web site with a before and after green comparison of household water bills. They did the same thing for a 16-unit apartment building with the aim of showing how much water and money can be saved by making a few smart green choices.

More info: www.rotorooter.com/rotogreen

To PR or not to PR...PR is not a verb!

2010-04-08T15:03:00.004-04:00

The kind folks at the Cision Navigator have taken an interest in my latest article, "To PR or not to PR...PR is not a verb!" and have it posted on their site (along with a near life-size version of my headshot).
Please see the opening below, and follow the link to the full piece.

PR is not a verb!

This is not an article debating the changing landscape of the public relations or advertising industry, or preaching best practice advice, but rather it’s an examination of the two simple letters that encompass everything communications professional do: PR.

As a public relations professional, I respect that there are some commonplace misconceptions about what we do at our agency, and likely every other PR agency on the planet for that matter. The perception of what we do is made worse by certain reality television shows that not only make me want to claw my eyes out, but insult my intelligence and profession as well. There is a significant difference between a PR firm and a publicist – which allows me illustrate my point: all publicity is PR, but not all PR is publicity.

You can read the rest of it on the Navigator at the link below:
http://navigator.cision.com/To-PR-or-not-to-PR-PR-is-not-a-verb.aspx

Hard Truths and my Soft Opinions...

2010-04-06T13:27:00.002-04:00

Every morning as I’m getting ready for work, I watch our local morning news show on Fox 19 to catch the latest headlines, weather and whatever else might make for some good conversation each day.

During this time, without fail, an ad appears entitled “the Hard Truths”. Typically, these address any range of issues from health care to religion, most of which politically charged.

And, while it does a great job of assimilating a news program and using the word ‘truth’ to sound factual, I’m not sure it’s always the case. But, I digress.
April fifth’s “Hard Truths” segment I found particularly interesting, not so much in its content, but in the choice of vehicle for the message.

Here is the video:

Now, without focusing on other things this video calls to light, our host Phil essentially says that politicians should not listen to their constituents while making decisions on their behalf.

Think about it- this ad, paid for by campaign donations nonetheless, is going out to those very masses he’s saying aren’t credible.
( see: http://www.cincinnatibeacon.com/index.php?/contents/comments/187000_for_heimlichs_hard_truth_what_did_phil_do_with_his_campaign_cash/ )
I wonder, if upon receiving these donations, he replies, “Thank you for your money. I won’t represent your beliefs, but have a great life!”

Maybe he’s trying to say that leaders shouldn’t always blindly follow the masses—something with which I very much agree, but the way this comes across, it sounds more like he’s saying “the public doesn’t know what’s best for themselves.” …if that’s really what he wants to say, I would suggest not taking a local television ad to communicate said sentiments…to the public.

It’s a large leap to associate atrocities in American history strictly to the will of the people, as certainly slavery, internment camps and the Salem witch trials involved no underhanded politics whatsoever.

It’s also mildly offensive to myself and other members of the intelligent sector of the viewing public to be told that one of our own self-proclaimed public servants is stating outright that he will not abide by our wishes. Doesn’t that sound a little un-democratic? I mean, how does one get elected into office on a platform of not representing their constituents?

I hope he’s not running for election again anytime soon…

Roto-Rooter on This Sunday's Undercover Boss

2010-03-31T11:27:00.002-04:00

As of late, I've been absorbed with promoting my client, Roto-Rooter on an upcoming episode of the CBS reality show Undercover Boss. Please enjoy the trailer above. Filming was quite the experience, but promoting it has been so much fun.

Be sure to tune in this Sunday at 9pm!! I can't wait to see what makes the final cut.

Congrats NKY Youth Foundation!

2010-03-03T09:59:00.002-05:00

Kudos go out to our friends at the Northern Kentucky Youth Foundation, a newly founded non-profit providing after school and summer camp programs to kids in Northern Kentucky. Above is the logo we designed for them, which was unveiled last thursday.

For more information on donations and volunteering please visit www.nkyyouth.org or call (859) 795-1506.

A new article to share

2010-01-05T11:12:00.002-05:00

Happy 2010! I can hardly believe it!
And, I must admit that the correct pronunciation is weighing on me a bit...do we say twenty-ten, or two thousand ten, or just "ten"? Certainly not "0-10", which I've heard on several car commercials.

Either way, it's upon us, and I wanted to share a recent article, published by www.BluePlanetGreenLiving.com , which has also been so kind as to name me as a contributing writer!

So, please enjoy my first foray into 'green' writing ;)

Hugging Trees Becoming New Mantra in the Act of Going to College

Institutions of higher learning have always been a hotbed of cutting edge technology, social progression and political involvement. Students are classic early adopters, and constantly challenge traditional thinking and processes. In response to the encouragement of on campus environmental organizations, more and more universities are starting to see the world through green colored glasses and finding more ways to conserve resources, ensuring that the only noxious emissions are those coming from the freshmen dormitories.

In fact, 4,100 institutions of higher learning have LEED certified buildings to total a whopping 240,000 buildings nationwide, according to the United States Green Building Council, and countless other schools are feverishly adopting wind towers, sustainability goals and recycling programs. And the latest group jumping on the green bandwagon?

See the rest at:
http://www.blueplanetgreenliving.com/2009/10/27/hugging-trees-fast-becoming-new-mantra-for-college-students/

Fall Jaunts

2009-12-07T16:22:00.002-05:00

What's news? Too much to mention! Had I been a good blogger, this would be up-to-date, but alas, you'll have to settle for a brief recap of what this season has offered.

Races, galore!
3 races (my first three, in fact)under my belt: Air Force, Run Like Hell and the Jingle Bell Run, which took place this past weekend. Can't say I'm the best runner, but it sure is fun!

Another foreign foray...
Back to Mexico. Only to return with several hundred more photos of lizards (see below.)

Now, as we look towards the holidays and Brinkmas, I can't help but be excited for what's in store! :)

Happy [2nd] anniversary to me!

2009-09-25T15:21:00.003-04:00

Where has the time gone?

Not only this summer, which proved to be a cruel tease of what is typically expected of Ohio summers, but the entire YEAR!

This past week I celebrated my second anniversary with EMG (well, not all week, but intermittently)and, in looking back, I've learned a lot and met a ton of great people. I even had the opportunity to flex my writing muscles with our Chilling Tales book project.

I hope the next year is as challenging, fun and rewarding as this year has been. And I hope there's another book project in the near future ;) that was a blast!

Cheers, friends!

If you haven’t already…

2009-09-15T14:23:00.001-04:00

And this [might be] the last I say about the book for a while [MAYBE]…

Don’t forget to submit your entry to Roto-Rooter’s Chilling Tales Sweepstakes. You can win a chance to participate in a real life ghost hunt with the SyFy’s Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson.

Other prizes include a stay at the Spaulding Inn in New Hampshire- a hotel owned and operated by the Ghost Hunters stars, or an autographed copy of the book, Chilling Tales from the Porcelain Seat.

Visit www.chillytales.com for official rules and entry!
Better hurry, the contest closes at midnight!!

Good Things Happening

2009-08-31T15:01:00.002-04:00

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20090830/NEWS0105/908300402?GID=qV7RqgedSiv8pEp762z2a8rMljgRS+qNUiz/VAu8cHM%3D

Congrats to the Joyce from the Peppermint Pig Thrift & Gift on Beechmont Ave. for the nice feature in yesterday's Enquirer.

The store (affectionately referred to as 'the pig'), is a not-for-profit thrift store in which all proceeds go towards supporting Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary, a no-kill animal shelter.

It's great to see such dedicated individuals working hard for a great cause. Thanks Joyce and congratulations!

An oldie but goodie...

2009-08-27T11:41:00.003-04:00

Earlier this month was the signing/celebration of the launch of our book, "Chilling Tales from the Porcelain Seat."

Wanted to share a picture of me and Ghost Hunters Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson. They did a wonderful job of working the crowd and interacting with their fans. :) So glad they could come out and be a part of this project!

Laughs, a Launch and the Loo

2009-08-05T10:57:00.003-04:00

Join the SyFy channel's Ghost Hunters Friday from 3-6pm at the Barnes & Noble on Newport on the Levee as they sign the new book they co-wrote with Roto-Rooter plumbers, "Chilling Tales from the Porcelain Seat."

Also there will be cover model and porcelain princess Brittany Everitt, a toilet ice sculpture and a signed toilet (that was on the cover) that will be signed by the Ghost Hunters and Brittany and raffled off at the event.

Copies of the book will be for sale at the event. Be sure to grab your copy and we'll see you there!

Amputee Coalition of America Youth Camp

2009-07-28T14:18:00.002-04:00

This year, through EMG’s Operation: Outreach program, I’ve had the privilege of assisting the Amputee Coalition of America raise awareness of its Youth Camp- a five-day program provided free of charge to children living with limb loss or limb differences.

Yesterday, we invited members of the media out to experience the camp firsthand, and watch as the campers take on the ropes course. For more information about the camp and other Amputee Coalition of America programs, visit: http://www.amputee-coalition.org

Special thanks to Ryan Cook who came out and did a great piece on the camp, which you can find here:

http://www.daytondailynews.com/news/dayton-news/children-with-no-arms-legs-tackle-ropes-course-224020.html

Chilling Tales from the Porcelain Seat

2009-06-25T14:50:00.002-04:00

It's here!

The long awaited book and first project of its kind for me has finally been launched. Chilling Tales from the Porcelain Seat is now available for purchase at www.chillytales.com! Compiled and edited by yours truly, and designed by our awesome team at EMG.
Check it out!

SciFi’s Ghost Hunters, Roto-Rooter Launch New Bathroom Reader Book
Chilling Tales from the Porcelain Seat Available

Cincinnati, OH – June 25, 2009—Roto-Rooter, America’s largest plumbing and drain cleaning service provider, has unveiled its latest creation to bring joy and relief to bathroom users everywhere. Chilling Tales from the Porcelain Seat is a vignette-style bathroom reader featuring real life Roto-Rooter plumbers and SciFi channel’s Ghost Hunters Jason Hawes and Grant Wilson. Chilling Tales from the Porcelain Seat features strange but true tales of plumbing horrors and hilarity and is available for purchase at www.chillytales.com.

The idea behind the book stems from all the strange, odd, unexplained and simply weird experiences both the Ghost Hunters and other Roto-Rooter plumbers have witnessed over the years involving pipes, drains, sinks and toilets. “Many of the locations alleged to have poltergeists simply turn out to be plumbing issues, clanging pipes and DIY projects gone wrong,” Hawes said.

“Chilling Tales from the Porcelain Seat highlights the odd experiences that many plumbers encounter on a daily basis,” Hawes added. “Readers will be shocked to learn about some of the things we’ve experienced on the job and we’ve even had folks from all across the country send in their own plumbing stories for the book. There are tales that will curl your hair, and others that are just so funny you can’t help but belly laugh. It’s a great way to spend some quality time on the throne.”

The book is also filled with practical tips, advice and what not to do’s for do it yourselfers who may be looking to tackle a plumbing problem, although Hawes wryly admits that his best do it yourself plumbing advice is to call an experienced plumber. Chilling Tales features toilet trivia and even a special foreword by the Porcelain God himself.

Visitors to www.chillytales.com or www.rotorooter.com can also enter Roto-Rooter’s Chilling Tales Sweepstakes for a chance to win a trip to Colorado where the winner will join Jason and Grant on a ghost hunt at the famous Stanley Hotel in Colorado, the location for the filming of the movie The Shining, or the chance to stay at the haunted Spaulding Inn of New Hampshire, owned and operated by the Ghost Hunters stars. Other prizes will also be available.

Media Contact: Allison Brinkman
Eisen Marketing Group
859-291-4302
Allison@eisenmarketinggroup.com
Twitter: @EMGMediaAccess

Introducing...

2009-06-19T09:44:00.003-04:00

Chilling Tales from the Porcelain Seat

If my friends and family know anything about me, it's that I've always wanted to write a book. Who would've thought that the first book project I'd be involved with would be a Bathroom Reader?!

Details to come next week, but here's the cover :) It's been a wonderful project to which the each member of the EMG team has been able to lend their special abilities. I can't wait to share it with you!

Classmates to Colleagues

2009-05-27T16:40:00.000-04:00

Last Wednesday I was invited to participate in a panel discussion for the Arts & Sciences career services department at Ohio State. It was wonderful to be back on campus (especially during springtime) and have the opportunity to represent my company and the journey that’s taken me to the good ship EMG.

The one piece of advice I found myself dolling over and over throughout the seminar, Q&A and networking session was one simple thing: network. Something that isn’t emphasized enough, and hyped to mythical proportions as awkwardly forced conversation in an uncomfortable professional setting.

Truth is, we’ve been doing it since we were kids, and even in college, only substitute beer for coffee (in some cases…although I’d much prefer to network over beer). Networking is an intimidating word for making friends, for, if you think about it, without that personal connection, you’ll be a pretty forgettable individual- someone people wouldn’t want to call to hang out with again.

Forget the hype, just go out and see what other people have to offer. Everyone brings a perspective to the table and it’s fun to discover their passions.

This was the first year for the Classmates to Colleagues program, and I wish everyone who was in attendance the best of luck. Getting started in any career out of college is difficult, stressful and all around overwhelming. It’s a character defining process in which confidence is key. Hey, you might not get a job right out the gate, but you don’t have to look too far to find the tools you need to get where you need to be.

Humbled

2009-05-05T11:20:00.001-04:00

It’s truly an honor and a pleasure to help out non-profits within the community through our Operation:Outreach program.

Last year I served as the PR/media relations arm for the Peppermint Pig thrift & Gift, a volunteer-run non-profit thrift store that uses all proceeds to support Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary, a no-kill animal shelter.

This morning I received a letter from another supporter of the Peppermint Pig regarding the work we’ve done with them.

“Keep up the good work helping the abandoned animals! We bring donations into the PP at least once a month. We hope that in a small way we are helping out. We have seven stray cats that now make their home with us too.

Thanks again for involving yourself with the PP.”

Hope for a homeless pet can come in the smallest of gestures. If you’re looking for a new best friend, or have some gently used clothing that you’d like to donate, please go to the Peppermint Pig. More information about the store and Safe Haven can be found here: http://www.safehavenohio.org.

Weathering the Storm

2009-04-27T16:09:00.002-04:00

This is a really exciting development in my life as a budding amateur photographer...One of my pictures of a recent ice storm was selected to accompany an article in Turf Magazine.

I've included the picture below, but check out the full article, "Weathering the Storm" here: http://www.turfmagazine.com/article.php?id=2249

New Project!

2009-04-22T14:19:00.000-04:00

Don’t hate me for being a terrible blogger, I’ve been working on a fantastic project for a client that’s challenging and wacky and all around awesome... and best of all, I need your help.

Do you have a crazy, funny or downright frightening plumbing story you’d like to share? I want to hear it! Anything from tips to DIY disasters and everything in between. You may be selected to be featured in a book (which is being compiled by yours truly).

Head over to www.chillytales.com to find out more about the project and share your experience!

The Peekaru

2009-04-02T13:16:00.003-04:00

A product that needs little to no explanation...a baby snuggie, right?
A shirt/pouch combination that turns babies into little aliens.

http://i.gizmodo.com/5191510/peekaru-is-a-baby-snuggie

Well...good luck to them with their sales and marketing efforts. Not having a child, I wanted to see how I would look in a Peekaru with what I consider to be my child, my dog Oscar. Please see the results below.

What do you think?

Something PR people don't often hear...

2009-03-13T13:45:00.002-04:00

Today I received probably one of the nicest, most sincerely flattering emails that I’ve ever received during my tenure as PR gal.

This person, an editor for a highly respected workplace/HR publication, expressed how impressed she was by a client’s resources and website capabilities, and even more flattering, said, “If you’re responsible for that section [news section], congratulations. That is some amazing press you’ve gotten for your client in a short time.”

THANK YOU!!!!! I am honored, flattered and fulfilled. While we always work to make our clients happy, we never hear that type of feedback from the ‘other’ side of the table.

:)

Freebies

2009-02-20T11:42:00.001-05:00

So let’s say you’re out to get a bite to eat...

You go to McDonald’s, ask for a coke, and then stand there dumbfounded because you didn’t get a free Big Mac.

Sure, you’d like that free Big Mac with your coke, but you paid for a coke, so you don’t receive it. Unless, of course, it’s “Free Big Mac with the purchase of a Coke” day, which, presumably it isn’t.

If you’d asked for a Big Mac to go with your Coke, you would, of course, be expected to pay for it. They don’t make Big Macs for their health (or come to think of it, yours either,) but for your [paying] enjoyment.

If you request an added product or service of a company, whether it be hamburgers, plumbing or PR, it should be expected that said request is going to raise the price of your bill, not expected to be free.

Bad. Pitch.

2009-02-17T14:29:00.000-05:00

Lately I’ve been a bad blogger. I haven’t had the time to keep my thoughts together, much less post the interesting happenings in our world of integrated marketing madness. We’re all entitled to moments of being ‘off our game’ even sometimes downright ‘bad.’

Today I experienced what can only be described as someone else having an incredibly ‘off ‘day…and that’s putting it nicely, because, well…this pitch was downright bad.

I had the unique opportunity to be on the other side of the table last week, and play journalist. So, as many do, I sent out a query through the appropriate channels and was suddenly inundated by pitches, stories and sometimes what could be construed as a short novel.

I’ve changed the guy’s name because I’m embarrassed for him.

“I have a great story for you
-Dave”

No contact info provided. No tease of a story. Nothing. Not even a subject in the subject line of the email! I sure hope this guy doesn’t do PR for a living.
Out of sheer curiosity, I responded (something no journalist is ever likely to do to such a query)…

“Hi Dave,
My deadline is Friday, I would love to hear your story if you could just type something up and send it over to me by then.”

His response [paraphrased]:

“I’m only able to tell the story by phone I’m [enter important job title/organization here] and simply can’t send you an email. You’ll love this story though. Send me your number, I’ll give you a call.”

Wow. Typically I have a pretty low tolerance for people with such toxic levels of self-importance, and this guy was all around baffling. He was too busy to pitch, but he pitched me anyway, sans contact info, subject or even a story for that matter, and then proceeds to try and impress me with his credentials after such a lackluster offering.

It’s because of people like that with [pardon my French] half-assed pitches that make PR people look bad.

The Super Bowl Dilemma: To Give a Day Off Or Not

2009-02-02T14:55:00.002-05:00

Around these parts, football is practically a religious experience... why not take the extra step and make it an official holiday? Please find some humor about the fateful day after the superbowl by Barbara Poole, founder of www.employaid.com.

The Super Bowl Dilemma: To Give a Day Off Or Not

By Barbara Poole
www.Employaid.com

Few events during the year give us reason to wildly celebrate and let out our inner cave man (or cave gal) than the Super Bowl. Where else can you find hedonistic amounts of food and beer? When else do we go berserk over giant men getting the #%@& beat out of them on the field for the sake of control of a football? Yes, the Super Bowl has become a national obsession, and one of the biggest social occasions of the year. Unfortunately, the Super Bowl airs on Sunday evenings, leaving many bloated, burping, and hung over the next morning.

What is an employer to do about the newest holiday to confront our economy – The Morning after the Super Bowl? Let’s face it. There’s not going to be a lot of productivity that day anyhow. Here are the top ten reasons why bosses need to tell their employees to stay home on this new national holiday, simply known as “The Day After.”

10. Need time off to appropriately give thanks for a 6 month vacation from John Madden

9. Gives the guy in accounting a day to practice performing 1-man versions of all of his favorite beer commercials

8. So the entire nation, together, can find out what Regis thought of the game

7. Beer + chili + close cubicles. Do the math

6. It would be another sign that the terrorists aren't winning

5. Use the day off to reflect upon the moving halftime performance

4. Gives employees a chance to test-drive this "unemployment" thing

3. The After Super Bowl sale at Macy's!

2. Isn't it already a holiday?

And the number one reason…..

1. Two words: “guacamole detox”

Barbara Poole is the CEO and founder of Employaid and www.Employaid.com, the largest workforce and employee relations resource on the web.

Winter Wonderland

2009-01-28T17:14:00.001-05:00

We've had quite some interesting weather here lately. Here's a picture of the ice that accumulated on the trees in my backyard over the past few hours.

Hope everyone is being safe!

The Truman Show

2009-01-19T11:58:00.000-05:00

This weekend I caught the tail end of one of my favorite movies on TV: The Truman Show.

At the very end Truman (Jim Carey) makes a final life altering decision- that entering into the ‘real world’ and all its unknown variables would ultimately be less frightening than living in a fictional universe under a microscope. Fair enough.

But this got me to thinking, what would await Truman after he passes through the threshold of his encapsulated world to face reality?

It’s not so much adjusting to the senseless and often frustrating quirks of the ‘real world’ that I’m referring to, but rather the media frenzy that would have surely ensued.

In the movie, Truman’s onetime love who had attempted to warn him that his life was a staged TV show rushed out the door to meet him as he bid adieu to his millions of viewers with his trademark, “Good afternoon Good Evening and Good night.”

Provided she knew where to find him, would she even be able to navigate her way through the hundreds of cameras and reporters that were surely waiting to pounce on him upon his grand exit? What would he have to say to them? There’s no such thing as media training for unwitting reality television stars.

What then? He’d need money of course. What comes easier than celebrity, product endorsements and publicity for someone who already has brand equity?

It seems Truman would be doomed to face a life of celebrity either way he would have chosen.

The World’s Worst Marketing Strategy

2009-01-14T13:20:00.000-05:00

Strip away all the fluff and hype, and let’s examine the essence of marketing. Really, it should boil down to three things:

-Brand awareness
-Lead Generation
-Sales

I’m forced to admit that it absolutely blows my mind when I encounter people who think that refusing to implement any marketing strategy at all is the best course of action.

Yes, marketing can be expensive. But, do you know what is more expensive than that? The money you will be hemorrhaging on overhead and payroll when you have no clients.

We’ve all heard it—a slow economy is the best time to gain market share..and they’re right! While your competitors are stupidly pruning their marketing budgets and thus not bringing in new businesses, their loss can become your gain.

And no, I’m not talking about a one-off coupon (that’s a whole other rant which I will save for another day), or a flier or a single ad. I’m talking cohesive, integrated and comprehensive marketing strategy with a brand to match.

There, I’ve said it. Now go and do.

It's Electric

2009-01-12T14:31:00.002-05:00

...well, the talk will be anyway.

I've neglected my blogging in order to plan for the 2009 Greater Cincinnati Energy Summit, sponsored by Northern Kentucky Electric Service.

The event will discuss ways area businesses can save money on energy bills through energy efficient upgrades and rebate/incentive programs, and best practice advice for making the switch without sacrificing productivity.

This event is open to the public, and encouraged for all area business owners and facility managers.

Experts will be on hand from Today's Facility Manager magazine, Northern Kentucky Electric, Duke Energy, Leesman Lighting and Kentner Sellers to discuss 2009 issues in-depth.

RSVP today at: www.nkyelectric.com/energysummit

One last game...

2009-01-05T12:57:00.002-05:00

...Well certainly not the last game EVER, but it certainly will seem like an eternity until the Ohio State Buckeyes will play football again.

Here's a picture for all the other Buckeye fans out there...and for more of the O-H-I-O cheer in interesting places, check out: http://www.osu.edu/O-H-I-O/

Let's go Bucks!!!

Not Just for the Holidays

2008-12-22T11:07:00.001-05:00

When I was a kid, I recall desperately wanting a puppy for Christmas. It didn’t matter that we already had a dog, several fish and [eventually] a hermit crab. I wanted to be greeted by a cuddly, fluffy little puppy on Christmas morning.

It sounded like a good idea, anyway.

Thankfully, my parents had more common sense than to actually get me everything on my wish list, and I never received anything more than lots and lots of stuffed puppies…and one robot puppy that I could walk on my own.

The other day I saw a bumper sticker that really resonated with me: “Pets aren’t just for Christmas” and it really hit home. What happens after that cute ‘puppymoon’ phase is over…when the realization that pet ownership is a huge responsibility…one that they may not have been prepared for?

A person should elect to take on this kind of responsibility, not be forced into it.

The idea of giving a cute little puppy/kitty shouldn’t outweigh the fact that pets are an enormous responsibility. Now, as a pet owner myself, I understand why I never got that puppy.

My dog, Oscar, is an awesome little guy who I wouldn’t part with for anything-- but boy, is he a lot of work!

This holiday, please think twice before giving a pet as a gift. Shelters like Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary (www.safehavenohio.com) are filled with wonderful, adoptable pets…for people who ready to give them a loving home.

Merry Brinkmas!

2008-12-19T11:27:00.000-05:00

Tonight is the second annual Brinkmas celebration. A little known, but very well celebrated holiday… and a personal favorite of mine for obvious reasons.

What fun is having a generic ‘holiday’ fete, when you can create your own theme party?

The origins of Brinkmas:
Having a birthday 4 days away from Christmas has its drawbacks. Contrary to the typical belief and most frequently asked question: “so do you get twice the presents?” my birthday is often overlooked, forgotten and rarely celebrated.
Over the years, this has become quite a sticking point with me, after attending and throwing fabulous soiree after fabulous soiree for friends and not receiving the same love in return.

So we’ve created a brilliant solution—Brinkmas! Not quite Christmas, not quite my birthday…just a fun, festive winter get-together to celebrate the end of the year, the beginning of the holidays and of course…my birthday!
I feel so loved!

“Merry Brinkmas to all, and to all a good night!”

12/16

2008-12-16T13:06:00.002-05:00

As I look out my window at the snow shrouded Cincinnati skyline, I'm reminded of the view I had this time last week...

St. John's beach...but now I have lots of new pictures to share :) and a reason to make snowmen!

Update: a beef

2008-12-16T13:02:00.002-05:00

So after all that hassle with my bank putting my money in the wrong person's bank account, I receive my statement the other day only to discover that they had re-deposited the money into the wrong one of my accounts.

Le Sigh.

Can't stay mad for long with sunshine on the brain!

2008-12-05T11:41:00.002-05:00

Have a beautiful weekend :)

A Beef

2008-12-02T15:40:00.000-05:00

I had another, more positive blog planned for this afternoon. But that will have to wait in light of an unforgivable beef that has just come to my attention.

No, it’s not even related to PR, marketing or advertising, BUT if you have an account at 5/3 bank, it might still be of some relevance to you:
This afternoon I received a call that one of the deposits I had made last month had accidentally been transferred to the wrong Allison Brinkman’s bank account. This other Allison Brinkman noticed the money in her account that shouldn’t be there and notified the bank.

I suppose I can only be so upset about human error, but it feels like such a grave mistake on their part. Especially considering that I handed the teller my identification along with my deposit slip to be doubly sure that something like this didn’t happen. And to rely on the honesty of others, well, let’s face it- in this economy, who’s going to say no to free money (especially several hundred dollars)?

To add insult to injury, when I called to complain, the morons transferred me to the wrong branch, and I spent the subsequent 20 minutes yelling at the wrong branch manager about his undisciplined and irresponsible tellers [sorry Jeff].

I will reiterate: customer service is key. Especially when dealing with a really, really wronged customer.

The name Allison is reputed to mean “one who speaks the truth” and in this particular case, I’m glad she did. Thank you, mysterious other Allison Brinkman!

Too Many Cooks in the Kitchen

2008-11-26T10:32:00.000-05:00

There’s an old saying “too many cooks in the kitchen” that describes an organization overpopulated with leaders or decision makers.

I just have to ask…how many is too many?

While I would never discourage the use of advisors, gurus or experts, I must believe that at one point or another there are too many hands in the pot, too many conflicting opinions and too much advice. So what’s the point of oversaturation and how is that measured?

You don’t, after all, want to dilute your brand. On the other hand, you can’t expect one advisor to be the all-knowing, universally applicable phenom (although I’m sure there are many out there who would like to claim that they are).

So the question I’m trying to ask here is: what’s the threshold? Surely it’s different for every company and every situation, but a list of hirable experts in my mind seems like an endless roll call of industries.

I’ve heard that back in the days when sailors still traversed vast uncharted territory they would either carry one clock with them or three to tell the time. After all, if you had two and one was wrong, how could you tell?

I think in the end it boils down to this—you don’t have to know it all, you just have to know where to turn when you need the help.

Our Honor Defend...

2008-11-21T10:03:00.003-05:00

...We will fight to the end for O-HI-O!

My favorite football game of the whole year is tomorrow OSU vs. U of M. Though I don't have tickets, I'll be there in spirit, and have the pleasure of meeting up with some of my old roomates this weekend.

A couple shots of Ohio Stadium:

Rushing the field after our victory against M*ch*g*n in 2006

Let's Go Buckeyes!!!

Best Week of the Year

2008-11-19T09:55:00.001-05:00

…at least if you’re a die-hard Ohio State Buckeyes fan like myself. Time for celebration, time for tradition, time for the heated and widely recognized rivalry versus that team up north.

Probably one of the most amusing tributes to this time honored tradition is a pair of commercials made by ESPN… “without sports, this wouldn’t be disgusting” (there's a second one that follows which is also hilarious).

See below and enjoy…and of course GO BUCKS!!!

I Rescued a Human Today...

2008-11-17T13:20:00.002-05:00

I received this from my friends at the Peppermint Pig Thrift & Gift today and it really puts pet adoption into perspective. This is the promise we all make to our beloved pets...and they make to us...

I rescued a human today.
Her eyes met mine as she walked down the corridor peering
apprehensively into the kennels. I felt her need instantly and knew
I had to help her. I wagged my tail, not too exuberantly, so she
wouldn't be afraid.
As she stopped at my kennel I blocked her view
from a little accident I had in the back of my cage. I didn't want
her to know that I hadn't been walked today. Sometimes the shelter
keepers get too busy and I didn't want her to think poorly of them.
As she read my kennel card I hoped that she wouldn't feel sad about
my past. I only have the future to look forward to and want to make
a difference in someone's life.
She got down on her knees and made little kissy sounds at me. I shoved my shoulder and side of my head up against the bars to comfort her. Gentle fingertips caressed my neck; she was desperate for companionship.

A tear fell down her cheek and I raised my paw to assure her that all would be well. Soon my kennel door opened and her smile was so bright that I
instantly jumped into her arms. I would promise to keep her safe. I
would promise to always be by her side. I would promise to do
everything I could to see that radiant smile and sparkle in her
eyes. I was so fortunate that she came down my corridor. So many
more are out there who haven't walked the corridors. So many more to
be saved. At least I could save one.
I rescued a human today.

Support the Peppermint Pig Thrift & Gift and Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary at their event this week, November 18-22nd.
Fabulous Fall Finale!
1 Free book per (paying) customer per day
buy-one-get-one-free shoes/boots (equal or lesser value)
buy-one-get-one-free on clothing (except coats and formal wear)

All proceeds from the Peppermint Pig go to support Safe Haven, a no-kill animal rescue. Every Saturday is adoption day- come out and make a new best friend!
8255 Beechmont Ave, Cincinnati OH

11/13

2008-11-13T11:25:00.003-05:00

Santorini, Greece

My lackluster blog presence can be wholly attributed to a whopping case of laryngitis that has rendered me squeaky and a bit foggy, so enjoy a picture (and memory) that is certainly making me feel better...Santorini!

Customer Service is more Important than Ever

2008-11-07T14:51:00.001-05:00

In a struggling economy, it’s important for businesses to make each sale that much more accommodating to the consumer.

People are spending less, and budgets are tight…and when they do go out to spend money, they want to make it count. Admittedly, this should always be the number one rule of the b2c service industry, but often gets swept under the rug during an influx of business.

As one of my clients so keenly noted in an interview, “if a family is going to only go out to dinner twice a month instead of four times, they’re going to spend a little more and really enjoy themselves.”

I would argue this statement is pretty applicable to other service industries across the board. If people are going to cut back, they want to make sure that the few times they do indulge will be worthwhile.

My rant follows a highly anticipated but disappointing experience at a sandwich joint that resulted in a meal consisting of about 75 pickles wedged in between two pieces of burned, crumbly bread. What sandwich maker would allow a meal of that sort to pass out of the kitchen and represent their brand?

A truly successful brand must have a consistent image conveyed through every individual at the company…right down to the guy who slaps some mayo (and a reasonable number of pickles) between two pieces of bread.

Every interaction is important to your success and brand dissonance=dissatisfaction.

VOTE!

2008-11-04T13:35:00.004-05:00

I hope you had the chance to get out and vote today!!

...Apparently I don't have any patriotic pictures to commemorate this day, so you'll have to live with a shot of the Grand Canyon I took on my road trip a few years back along with my apologies for neglecting my photo of the day routine.

A Great Beginning

2008-11-03T13:25:00.002-05:00

Can you believe that it's November already?!

Despite the fact that we're about to embark on the chaos that is the holiday season, the month is off to a great start. Please allow me to share two successes...

Employaid founder Barbara Poole lends her advice to this morning's NY Post:

ROUGH JUSTICE
WORKERS ARE SUING THEIR EMPLOYERS IN GROWING NUMBERS, BUT MANY HAVE CAUSE TO REGRET IT
By BRIAN MOORE

..."When a reference check is done and a lawsuit surfaces, they're going to find a reason to knock the person out of the box," says Barbara Poole, who now runs employaid.com, an online resource site for corporate employees.

Poole advises plaintiffs who are looking for a new job to be up-front with potential employers about their legal actions. It's better to put a positive spin on the matter - "I want to work here because my research shows that this company treats employees with respect and pays them accordingly" - than to have HR discover it independently.

See the full story:
http://www.nypost.com/seven/11032008/jobs/rough_justice_136552.htm

The Peppermint Pig in the November issue of Cincy Chic:

Any Tuesday through Saturday: Shop for a Cause

Peppermint Pig Thrift and Gift

11 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Tuesday to Friday), 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Saturday)

Celebrate National Animal Shelter Appreciation Week this week (Nov. 1 to Nov. 8) by giving yourself some time to shop and support the Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary, a no-kill animal shelter. "All proceeds from the sales at the Peppermint Pig Thrift & Gift go towards animal care and the purchase of a brick and mortar facility for the Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary, whose current roster of adoptable pets reside in loving foster care," according to the store's Web site.

This Anderson Township consignment shop also has some sales coming up, including the "Fabulous Fall Finale!" (Nov. 18 to Nov. 22.) and "Happy Holiday Hoopla!" (Dec. 9 to Dec. 13). During the Finale, each paying customer will receive a free book and can buy clothes and shoes at a buy-one-get-one-free deal. At the Hoopla, customers can enjoy the BOGO deals when clothes, books, drinking glasses, mugs and vases will all be buy one, get one free.

http://cincychic.com/content/view/1411/1/

Happy November!

Emerging 30

2008-10-30T09:39:00.002-04:00

Last night was the Norther Kentucky Chamber of commerce Emerging 30 awards. EMG was a first time winner thanks to our rapid growth and all-around awesomeness.

Congrats to everyone on this accomplishment, and thanks to our clients for making this possible!

Happy [week of] Halloween!

2008-10-29T14:29:00.002-04:00

Oscar dressed up as Dogula. Ferocious!

By far one of my favorite holidays of the year. Candy, surprises and creativity galore!

This year, I'll be continuing on my quest to reenact Brand's greatest icons (like the true marketing pro that I am.)
Past years have included Carmen Miranda (of Chiquita banana fame) and the Saint Pauli Girl.

...As for this year... you'll just have to wait and see! I'd hate to spoil the surprise!

What will YOU be???

Busy this afternoon?

2008-10-27T09:49:00.002-04:00

Today at 4 p.m. the Housing Authority of Newport will be having a grand unveiling of their new Saratoga development, conveniently located on Saratoga Street in Newport.

Stop on by and learn about the positive contributions HAN has made to the city of Newport.

The Saratoga grand opening will be at 621 Saratoga Street in Newport on October 27. The event will begin at 4:00p.m. Tours and information are free and open to the general public, and light refreshments are provided. More information and directions can be accessed at: www.neighborhoodfoundations.com or by calling 859-581-2533.

Hope to see you there!

Like having a bad significant other…

2008-10-21T10:09:00.000-04:00

Having a bad outsourced professional service partner is like having a bad significant other. They won’t cooperate, they’re not responsive and they just aren’t interested in who you are.

Any of the following constitute a bad boyfriend, and just so happen to also apply to the world of outsourced professional services. For some people, sadly, this may be what not to do on a date: 101, but for everyone else, what seems to be common sense in the world of love applies equally to the world of professional services.

Not Responsive- How can you truly believe that someone is interested if they can’t be bothered to return your calls, emails, texts, smoke signals or…whatever in a timely fashion? I will preach until the day I die that unresponsive people, services or businesses are doomed to failure and should be a red flag against any further pursuits.

Chances are you’re not going to be the biggest fish, but that doesn’t make you any less important. In relationship speak, you should be the only fish in the pond and there is no good reason for a lack of timely response.

Inattentive- Taking calls during a fancy dinner screams, “I have better, more important things to do than to spend time with you.” Let’s face it, there are times when it’s an unavoidable necessity, but more often than not, it’s just plain rude.

Revert back to the small fish analogy- by inadvertently telling someone (client or otherwise) that you have bigger fish to fry and they are not a priority, it’s like telling them not to expect quality service or results.

Not proactive- We all cringe at the word maintenance but try as we might, it’s unavoidable. Everything needs a little tune-up once and a while, and what better way to avoid the dreaded ‘we need to talk’ speech than by being proactive. Seriously, people aren’t that hard to please. They’re inspired to continue their dealings with you based on tangible results.

Maybe you can talk your way out of any argument, but without a thoughtful idea here and there, a relationship won’t flourish. From the business side, reports can say a whole lot of nothing without the help new and proactive plans.

They don’t ‘get you’- Branding is essential and we all [should] have it. Our personal brand should be our mantra- it’s the life you live, the beliefs you embody and the reason someone loves or hates you. If a significant other can’t understand who you are, what you stand for and compliment you appropriately, it’s time to move on.

Very simple idea, but most important and most overlooked. What are the people who are selling your brand to the media saying about you?

Overpriced- Let’s face it. Commitments can get expensive. While it theoretically should be considered an investment, there are people out there who just want to take your money.

Typically I’ll agree that high prices correlate with a brand’s perceived value, but more often than not, it seems the higher the company rates, the less dazzling the results.

SEO scams, horrifically overpriced websites and ridiculous overhead can quickly become money pits for clients. While I’m not endorsing bargain basement discount companies by any means, the other end of the spectrum might not be the best for growth either…unless you happen to be an established megabrand with millions to blow [in which case, you’re probably not reading this anyway.]

So, at the risk of sounding like a man hating cynic, I’m releasing this advice into the world in hopes that someone can sit back and say, “you know, you’re right, this [business] partnership is not benefitting me like it should. It’s time to find somebody who’s looking out for my best interest.”

Oh, and P.S. Happy 200th post to me :)

In Capable Claws

2008-10-17T09:13:00.002-04:00

Larry, our data entry expert, oversees his first meeting. We're so proud!

See his bio: http://www.eisenmanagementgroup.com/people/bio_larrylobster.php

Have a great weekend!

PR In the Stars

2008-10-15T10:06:00.001-04:00

I recall the morning I left for my very first day at my very first job. I was talking to my dad who told me, “Knock ‘em dead, you were born to do this job.”

Well, he may not have been exaggerating. Today I was browsing CNN and found an article about “what your zodiac says about your career.” As it turns out, not only is my sign the most likely to find contentment within a chosen field, but I’m naturally [uh… astrologically?] well suited to my job…

Sagittarius (November 11 - December 21) Sagittarians are spiritual, positive and ethical; they also love to travel and learn new skills. Editing/writing, marketing/public relations, entertainment, hotel/recreation, IT and military, the careers reported in the survey, are all fitting for Sagittarians.

Discover what you may have been born to do:

http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/worklife/10/15/cb.astrology.career/index.html

As with fortune cookies and magic 8 balls, it’s probably best to take astrology with a grain of salt, but it is a fun article!

Just Sharing the Love...

2008-10-14T15:26:00.003-04:00

Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary was in yesterday's Enquirer. See the article below. Don't forget that October is adopt a dog month!

Joyce and rory with Hank (mentioned in article below)

[See Hank's profile here: http://www.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=12118600 ]

Animals can find Safe Haven

By Lisa Wakeland
lwakeland@communitypress.com

Hank was living in the woods for one month before finding a place at Safe Haven.

The 1-year-old American bulldog is one of many abandoned or abused pets rescued by Safe Haven, a no-kill animal sanctuary.

Unlike other adoption facilities, Safe Haven operates out of the Peppermint Pig Thrift & Gift store in Anderson Township and the animals live in temporary foster homes throughout the area.

Rory Uhler, founding president of Safe Haven, said they receive close to 100 requests per week to take in animals and try to accommodate as many as possible.

"Without adoptions, we can't help any more," he said.

Joyce Hutchinson, manager of Peppermint Pig and founding board member of Safe Haven, said some dogs and cats come from people losing their homes and others are rescued from shelters that euthanize the animals.

She said Peppermint Pig was created as a way to raise money for veterinary bills and day-to-day care for the animals.

When Hank came to Safe Haven, he had a bite wound on his back and the shelter paid for his surgery.

Hutchinson said he is one of 20 dogs and more than 100 cats in Safe Haven's foster homes, and the shelter usually has the animals in their care for up to a month.

Adoption policies are strict, Uhler said, and include a screening process and home visits.

He said Safe Haven knows the animals in its care very well and can match owners with pets.

"The animals we've rescued have been through hard times and we want to make sure they go to a good home," Hutchinson said.

She added that volunteers at Safe Haven and Peppermint Pig are crucial the success of both.

From 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. every Saturday, Safe Haven brings animals available for adoption to the Peppermint Pig, 8225 Beechmont Ave.

It gets me every time…

2008-10-07T13:21:00.001-04:00

For those of you who don’t know, Issue 6 will be on the ballot in November and concerns the construction of a resort casino in Ohio.

While I’m not going to endorse one particular side or another, I do want to talk about the commercial they’re currently running.

It depicts four people- citizens from Indiana, West Virginia, Michigan and Kentucky saying “I’m from [enter state name] and thanks, Ohio, for giving us your money!”

Each of the four looks like an average Joe, and I wouldn’t have given it a second thought, save the fact that the guy from Michigan is wearing a University of Michigan hat and tossing a football.

…oh these advertising people have done it again!

As an Ohio State alum and diehard Buckeye fan, I’m almost offended that they went so far as to allude to the possibility that my gambling dollars go to support U of M football….and, worst of all, made the assumption that just by seeing that Maize and Blue M on the man’s hat, that I would be persuaded to vote one way or another.

Arguably, we Ohio State fans are a rowdy bunch, and maize and blue aren’t exactly our favorite colors, but give us a little credit here, but we’re not going to vote on an issue solely because our fun money MIGHT support our rival’s football program. Come on now!

I’ve looked high and low for the ad, but can’t seem to find it (not even on the official website), but if you want to learn more about the pro issue 6 stance and view their other ads: http://www.yesonissue6.com.

October is Adopt a Dog Month!

2008-10-06T15:53:00.003-04:00

While I'm talking about my love of dogs, let me remind everyone that October is adopt a dog month! (Well...my dog, pictured above, is not up for adoption...but he is adopted!)

Safe Haven Animal Shelter is one of Cincinnati's no-kill animal rescues that fosters adoptable dogs and cats until a loving home can be found.

Interested in adopting? Visit the Peppermint Pig Thrift and Gift on 8255 Beechmont Ave. every Saturday from 1-4 p.m.

Learn more about safe haven and find out about you can help at: www.safehavenohio.org or by calling: 513-474-0005.

10/3

2008-10-03T13:26:00.002-04:00

Typically, I'd much rather share photos of travel adventures than myself, but Oscar looks so...personable in this picture that I just had to share it!

Have a great weekend!

Happy Founders Day!

2008-10-01T14:11:00.003-04:00

We sure do love to celebrate around here! And why not- marketing is all about fun and we do our best to keep it that way.

Today, Eisen Management Group turns 2, which is as good a reason as any to celebrate-

good fun,
gainful employment and
great work!

It's an opportunity that made the know-nothing newbie that I was into a validated PR professional and there's no turning back now.

Here's to many more years!

Marinating: A Recipe for Good Writing

2008-09-30T11:07:00.000-04:00

A.K.A. Love is a lot like marinated chicken.

I could be writing this because I’m starving, or, if my nutritionist is reading this, because it’s my newly coined phrase for the writing process.

Say it’s date night and you, being the eternal darling that you are, decide to make some sort of fancy marinated chicken for your love…or sit down to pen the greatest proclamation of love and affection to be written this century. No matter, it’s the same process.

At the heart of it all is the chicken (yes, love is apparently like chicken…or at least in this reference it is). It’s the meat of what you’re trying to say, the canvas for your spice.

Let’s face it, people wouldn’t say “tastes like chicken” if chicken were that unique. Everybody loves, [most] everybody eats chicken. It’s universally applicable.
It’s that extra something that only you can bring to the table- the extra special blend of style, wording and character that make it your own. Throw them together and sit on it [not literally] and you’ll find that the things you want to say will come to you.

What you get is one savory dinner…or one really good piece of writing.

In the Examiner.com

2008-09-25T09:59:00.002-04:00

Yes, I'm still leveraging the infamous David-Letterman top 10 list that I used to land my job here at EMG- something that has since become the stuff of legend and a favorite of career reporters.

Please find the latest mention on today's Examiner.com:

http://www.examiner.com/x-828-Entry-Level-Careers-Examiner~y2008m9d25-Creative-ways-to-land-entrylevel-jobs?cid=Examiner

Why do we as an agency celebrate new and creative approaches to landing a job? Because it demonstrates a person that's willing to take risks, to show their true colors and differentiate themselves from the crowd, which, as we all know, is what branding is all about.

What was on my top 10 list? Well...that's for another time, but I can tell you what my #1 reason was: "I won't leave you alone until you grant me the opportunity to interview."

Efficiency

2008-09-24T13:07:00.002-04:00

Or, as I like to call it, making time where there is none.

Seemingly the bane of existence of every person who works by timesheets: the overwhelming pressure to be inhumanly productive isn’t exempt from plaguing the ranks of those in advertising, marketing and PR.

[see previous release on intangibles: http://famousallison.blogspot.com/2007/11/intangibles.html]

The fact of the matter is that things take time- even the intangible ones like thinking, meeting and planning. While an agency is usually home to a plethora of eccentric creative types, creative-on-demand without any time expenditure is virtually impossible.

I am hereby instituting a random creative thought of the day (or various random weekdays). In light of this generally unreasonable expectation to produce immediate genius, here’s an idea, off the top of my head, to prove that they’re not all gems-

This year for Halloween, Instead of candy, hand out autographed pictures of yourself, standing in front of your company’s sign displaying a big, cheesy thumbs up. A surefire way to curb childhood obesity.

Cynical and funny, yes... but a lousy idea. But it goes to show that if you want something creative without the development and brand exploration time, you’re going to get an idea like that.

So, while –really- good ideas take some time in nurturing and development, in the course of writing this post, I’ve sent out a release, made subsequent follow-ups and laid the foundation for a large scale direct mail campaign. Patience is key...as a wise one says, "The things you do today will pay off tomorrow."

Intangibly efficient. Invariably expedient.

Now that’s making time!

Meet Cheerio!

2008-09-23T11:53:00.003-04:00

Joyce Hutchinson of Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary interviewed with Pet Life Radio last week about one of the many wonderful adoptable animals Safe Haven has in foster care- a Labrador mix named Cheerio.

To hear the interview, go to: www.petliferadio.com, and click on 'Take Me Home' and click on 'Listen Now' by Cheerio's description.

See Cheerio's full profile here:
http://www.petfinder.com/petnote/displaypet.cgi?petid=11777736

To read more about Safe Haven's mission and the Peppermint Pig Thrift & Gift at: www.safehavenohio.org.

9/19

2008-09-19T14:20:00.000-04:00

A snapshot from our beloved Newport on the Levee, right down the street from our offices!
Happy Friday!

Microsoft and the Shoe Circus

2008-09-17T14:31:00.003-04:00

Microsoft has embarked on a series of commercials to respond to the popular Mac ads:

Being generally indifferent to which type of computer I use (so long as it's virus free and doesn't magically delete my files), I find it endlessly entertaining to hear friends passionate one way or another, discuss which is truly the better machine.

I can't claim full credit for the dialog (this is my friend Eric's doing), but because I found it entertaining, am including it for your enjoyment...

A Mac response to the above Microsoft commercial:

Hello I’m a mac, and I’m a PC

Mac: What are you doing PC?

PC: Oh, I just off the phone- I was trying to set up a cross promotion between myself and the makers of aspirin and other irritation based ointments.

Mac: And why would you want to do that?

PC: Well, as you know I can be obtained on the cheap, but my lack of compatibility and frequent breakdowns seem to be causing my consumers to suffer eye damage, headache, and skin irritation. I figure I may be a more desirable buy if I can help to prevent these side effects before they occur.

Mac: Hmm, I was unaware using a computer could cause any of those issues. Then again, I am always functional unless running Microsoft Office. It’s amazing the FTC doesn’t make you put a Surgeon General Warning right on your box.

PC: Tell me about it (Bends down to tie his shoe)

GET A MAC

Did I say that?!

2008-09-15T13:01:00.002-04:00

There was a query out last week concerning stories of mispronounciation- something that is surely universally relatable. So, in light of that, please find below my most memorable tale of mispronounciation for your enjoyment:

Awhile back I was volunteering at a high school solo & ensemble competition as a judges assistant. It was a simple job- making sure the kids were in the right place at the right time and announcing the group and song when it was their time to perform.

Just before lunch the last group to perform was set to go, and I stood up and announced the ensemble and song, composed by Schubert…which came out “sherbert.”

It wasn’t until I returned to my seat that I realized that everyone was staring at me with quite puzzled expressions. Not only had I mispronounced the composer’s name in front of the band and audience, but I mispronounced the dessert as well.

Needless to say, I will never mispronounce either of those two words again! :)

No ‘hot dead clumps’ today.

2008-09-10T10:01:00.000-04:00

I’ve been religiously following the progress of the Large Hadron Collider- an ‘atom smasher’ that has been in the works for well over a decade, and was recently completed.

[See my previous post on this: http://famousallison.blogspot.com/2008/06/earth-to-become-hot-dead-clump.html ]

This morning was the initial start up of the machine that is reputed to have a one in a billion chance of turning Earth into a ‘hot dead clump’ or a black hole. This is monumentally cool.

Well, apparently our game of atomic roulette landed in our favor; Earth has survived to see another day and who knows what new dimensions we may discover with this new technology. Go science!

Read more here:
http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/09/10/lhc.collider/index.html

Happy anniversary to me!

2008-09-05T14:05:00.002-04:00

Yesterday marked my 1 year anniversary with EMG!

They asked me to detail my best and worst moments on the job...and I have to say, it's a tough question to answer.

So, to roll them both together and make life easier on myself I will give an answer that universally addresses the best and the worst---

Let's call them the 'woulda coulda shoulda' projects that every agency has: the spectacular grand openings, parties, rebranding projects and all other great ideas that are thoroughly planned but never executed. Agencies probably collect hundreds of them only to file away and be forgotten.

It's obviously an awesome experience because each of these projects involved the love and dedication of an expert team using their creativity to build something great, thus making the disappointment suffered from a near-completed masterpiece that much more rueful.

And there you have it. Now, on to another year of adventure and mayhem!

Cheers!

9/3

2008-09-03T15:33:00.001-04:00

I just realized that it's been ages since I've shared any photos. Truth be told, I've been slacking lately, but here's one taken a couple of weeks ago. Enjoy!

Branded Apparel Do’s & Don’ts

2008-09-02T11:04:00.001-04:00

I did an interview for an article of this title awhile back for Promotional Products Buziness Magazine, but alas, my infinite wisdom wasn’t selected to be included as originally planned.

You can see the article here: http://www.ppbmag.com/Article.aspx?id=4307

Since my two cents weren’t included in the mix, here’s my promotional branding best practice advice from our experience working with American Joe Apparel, the 100% American-made online clothing retailer.

Do:

• Keep product incarnations low to reduce sitting on large amounts of inventory (simplicity is key).

• Be consistent with key messaging- from apparel appearance to logo design, to press releases and promotions, it’s best to present a unified front to your public.

• Capture email addresses. Be sure there’s an interactive element to your website- whether it’s a contest or newsletter, and keep in contact with your website visitors and show them why your brand is great. For American Joe, we created a ‘1912’ club which offers its members special discounts, gifts and a membership card. The website also has a contest and newsletter sign up, and catalog request feature, all of which contribute to the contact database.

• Dedicate a spokesperson to your brand. Someone who will be able to speak knowledgably about the product lines, and embodies the brand. For American Joe, we selected the company’s founder, Nan Moon. Seemingly an easy choice, we were able to play off the hero brand as she is a breast cancer survivor with a rousing and engaging personal story. Celebrities are nice, but they don’t build the real life persona credibility that a company’s founder can lend to the brand.

Don’t:

• Stray from your brand by selling unrelated items (i.e. if you’re an apparel company, we recommend sticking with your strengths, not straying to selling books, DVD’s or sporting goods). You can’t be all things to all people, and it’s best not to try.

• Hold promotional events that contradict your brand messaging. Appliance stores don’t have dunk tanks at their events for a reason; similarly, if you’re a 100% American-made apparel company, you probably won’t sponsor an international festival either. We’ve had our client, American Joe Apparel, hold a T’s for Troops event- because their brand is a ‘hero’ archetype, we wanted to honor America’s hero’s with free T-shirts as they arrived home from Iraq. It garnered much publicity and support from Army organizations and supporters.

• Launch a brand via advertising. A solid, believable brand is built by a PR campaign. Always keep in mind that the news media supplies credibility to your product, whereas advertising is for sustaining an existing brand- white noise, more or less.

Fantasy football – Marketing Genius or Genuinely Malicious?

2008-08-27T13:44:00.001-04:00

It’s about that time again, my favorite season of the year celebrating my one true love: college football.

So (kind of) along those lines, this afternoon we were discussing the fantasy football obsession that afflicts several of my coworker’s significant others.

What a genius marketing phenomenon that causes grown men to revert back to schoolyard temper tantrums and countless Sundays spent simultaneously affixed to a television and computer—much to the chagrin of girlfriends, wives and non-football fans everywhere.

It’s a great way to keep viewers engaged, not only in the teams they’re following in real life, but to play out ‘what if’ scenarios involving other teams and players. Cool idea. Great enough that it’s managed to zap the life out of millions of Americans (many of whom are members of 3-4 fantasy football leagues) every Sunday for a good ¼ of the year.

Quite the addictive marketing scheme! I’d love to see some statistics, if anyone knows where I can find them.

As for me, my heart aligns will remain true to my one and only Ohio State Buckeyes! No fantasy football league needed.

The best holiday you've probably never heard of...

2008-08-21T14:37:00.002-04:00

It's not quite Christmas, it's not quite my birthday, it's BRINKMAS, and it's in this month's Cincy Business magazine feature story on holiday parties.

It's a rough life having a birthday so close to a big holiday like I do, so to be sure my special day didn't go unnoticed, our company celebrates a combo soiree in traditional EMG fashion- with lots of trivia, lots of pool and lots of...festivities!

The drink of choice for Brinkmas? Gin.

The ABC’s of consumer product marketing

2008-08-19T15:47:00.002-04:00

Ambassadors, Bargain hunters & Champions?

The path a company takes to inspire consumers to pull out their wallets and spend megabucks depends on innumerous variables- so many that if I even tried to graze the surface this blog would span several pages (which I won’t torture you with.) En lieu of that torture, I’ll just give you the A-C and leave the D-Z for another occasion--

Ambassadors

Often make great Halloween costumes but otherwise nonessential to completing ‘the sale.’

Let’s face it, the St. Pauli girl, Carmen Miranda and the Orbit gum girl are iconic testaments to the products they’re selling (and have all been on my Halloween costume list in my never-ending quest to be as many brand icons as I can before dressing for the holiday becomes passé – or creepy.)

Bargain Hunters

Disloyal and fleeting, this frugal bunch is driven by promotions and savings.
Keeping this shopper’s attention is a losing battle. Let’s face it- you’ll always be undercut by someone with a cheaper system or better deal, no matter how hard you try. Who really wants to be the bargain basement brand anyway? There’s no equity in being cheap.

In line with most of my references-- If you’re reputed to be a cheap date- you’re probably not going to attract the crème de la crème of the opposite sex.

Champions

Well…duh. I don’t mean to state the obvious here, but you want champions. You want the Michael Phelps of consumers. Probably not the best reference, but it being Olympics season, I felt the need for it to be included.

You can’t always control who champions your brand i.e. Kendra Wilkinson of the Girls Next Door and The Olive Garden (see story here: http://www.cnn.com/video/#/video/showbiz/2008/08/19/am.wynter.playboy.bunny.cnn ),
but these are the people you want out there on the streets providing you with invaluable word-of-mouth marketing…free! Love them! Embrace them! Olive Garden should be happy for all the free publicity they’re receiving from Kendra- surely other restaurants would kill for it.

Sadly, my endorsements of Pompillio’s, Skyline, LaRosa’s or Montgomery Inn won’t carry nearly as much weight, but I champion them none-the-less.

And there you have it.

Inquiring minds want to know…

2008-08-15T09:39:00.000-04:00

For the life of me I can’t understand this phenomenon- which seems to happen relatively frequently- and I’m hoping that someone can shed some light on the following mystery:
We’re contacted multiple times by someone who wants a job. With tenacity like that, we just can’t ignore the person- it’s the sign of a good media relations pro. So, with an interview all arranged [this morning], she bails the day of, saying she just can’t make the commitment.

Respectable excuse, yes, but an interview certainly isn’t the guarantee of a job, and in this industry especially, it’s important to take every networking opportunity you can get. It’s not as though there are a multitude of agencies in the city- and when the time comes that she is ready to commit, previous networking experiences can really help her get her foot in the door.

It’s like clamoring for a date from someone you really like- if you ask enough, you might get one… so what sense does it make to stand the person up?

So, inquiring minds want to know, why does this happen? Perhaps they don’t yet understand the opportunistic nature of this business… perhaps they read our bios?
Perhaps…..?

Have no idea what day it is?

2008-08-14T13:19:00.002-04:00

I usually don't either...but I will in 2009. That's because I will be quoted in the Women's advantage page-a-day calendar. The daily desk calendar will feature inspirational tips for better business practices from industry leaders.

...it's always best to plan ahead, right? Can't wait to see what day I get!

Check it out and buy your own at:

www.WomansAdvantage.biz/calendar

Some Peppermint Pig News--

2008-08-13T15:42:00.003-04:00

I have some fun news from the Peppermint Pig Thrift & Gift on Beechmont Ave. that was visited by none other than the Kiss 107.1 morning crew. If you don't recall, way back in May (? I think?) I played "guest host" for one of the DJs and had a great time of it. It's a fun group, and I'm glad they paid a visit to one of my favorite haunts.

Check out the pictures and hear the show below!

right-arrow to pictures 3-6 (of Joyce at the Pig)
http://www.kisscincinnati.com/cc-common/gallery/display.html?album_id=131363

- the voice clip:
http://www.kisscincinnati.com/cc-common/mediaplayer/player.html?redir=yes&mps=tj_player08.php&mid=http://a1135.g.akamai.net/f/1135/30265/1h/cchannel.download.akamai.com/30265/1832/richmedia/TOTW_Anderson_3_pig.mp3?CCOMRRMID=17927844&CPROG=RICHMEDIA&MARKET=CINCINNATI-OH&NG_FORMAT=chr&NG_ID=wkfs107fm&OR_NEWSFORMAT=chr&OWNER=1832&SERVER_NAME=www.kiss107.com&SITE_ID=1832&STATION_ID=WKFS-FM&TRACK=TLOG_totw_anderson_peppermint_pig

Oh the power of advertising…

2008-08-11T16:06:00.000-04:00

There’s a fight going on between the Ohio Legislature and the state’s payday lenders. Obviously coming out in favor of their own industry, the payday lenders have joined forces to reject the new legislation and have unveiled a new ad featuring an honest, hard working Ohio farmer talking about how he used payday lending responsibly to fix a belt in his truck, and why YOU, good Ohio citizen, should reject H.B. 545 in the next election.

Let me inform those who don’t know: farmers are largely self-employed, so getting a $100 advance on what someone pays himself doesn’t make much sense. Additionally, if his business (farming) is in such bad shape that he couldn’t fork up the extra cash (or, didn’t have savings), chances are he would need much more than $100 to get him out of this rut.

Moving on, and this is all my opinion at this point, payday lenders are extremely predatory by practice and 15% interest a week (give or take) is certainly not going to help keep honest, hard working Ohio families out of debt. As much as I don’t want to see 6,000 Ohioans out of work, I find it difficult to rationalize how these organizations are bettering our communities.

While I can appreciate the marketing spin, they’re trying to rally support behind a wolf in sheep’s clothing—something that makes me even less inclined to support their cause.

I encourage you to see the ad for yourself: http://www.ohioans4financialfreedom.com/.

Guilty reality show pleasure...

2008-08-08T14:47:00.002-04:00

The season finale of So You Think You Can Dance was last night, and while I can't say I was as dedicated a follower as I have been to previous seasons, it's great to see such talented dancers sharing their abilities with the world.

Having done ballet for 16 years while I was growing up, I know firsthand the commitment involved in becoming even a proficient dancer... to master vastly different forms of dance in such a short period of time is nothing short of incredible. Kudos to them!

Enjoy one of my favorite numbers, "Night of the Dancing Flame" performed last season, with one of my favorite So You Think You Can Dance performers, Neil, and another performance from this past season featuring Gev (one of my favorites from this year who was voted off too soon!)

Have plans tonight?

2008-08-07T12:00:00.003-04:00

Come to the Executive Perspective presented by the Cincinnati chapter of the National Society of Hispanic MBAs.

Be prepared to network and listen to a panel of distinguished hispanic executives speak on the evening's topic: "Developing a High Performance Mindset."

The event is free and open to the public and starts at 6pm in the Taft room of the Cincinnati Westin.

More information can be found at: www.eisenmanagementgroup.com/nshmba.

Hope to see you there!

Pardon my dust!

2008-08-06T14:45:00.001-04:00

I'm in the process of finding a new template for my blog, so if one thing or another isn't working right now, I'm getting to it, I promise!

Welcome Larry!

2008-08-05T14:22:00.002-04:00

Let me extend an official welcome to Larry, our newest EMG crew member here to aid us with our data entry & research needs.

Yet another testament to networking... you may even find a job on vacation. Larry did!

Other than his boycott of seafood restaurants, he's a loveable fellow and I'm sure you'll agree.

Check out Larry's bio here:
http://www.eisenmanagementgroup.com/people/index.php

Come to the Newport Firefighters Local 45 logo unveiling!

2008-08-04T09:45:00.001-04:00

EMG will be having a press conference this afternoon (Mon. August 4th) at 1pm to unveil the new logo created for our client, the Newport Firefighters Local 45.

Speakers will include EMG president Rodger Roeser and Newport firefighter Mike Volz who will discuss the importance of the new design and upcoming programs sponsored by the local 45.

Hope to see you there! Photos coming soon!

It’s a grand night for….speaking

2008-07-31T16:30:00.000-04:00

I was out of the office yesterday to serve as a judge for the state level 4-H speaking competition and wanted to share how awesome it was.

I’m pretty convinced that I wouldn’t have been nearly as successful if I’d competed against these clever presentations.

So while I still get a lot of grief from my born-and-raised city dwelling friends, 4-H is a great youth program with lots of leadership and social opportunities beyond livestock.

7/28

2008-07-28T14:30:00.004-04:00

Happy Monday!

1. I set up an account on Flickr.com to share my passion for photography with the world. Look me up: alli_the_b or go directly to my photostream:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/28846107@N07/sets/

2. Went to the Lite Bright film festival at the Southgate House in Newport on Saturday. Fantastic event! Truly talented filmmakers and the animation shorts- wow! Great way to spend an evening, I highly recommend making time to go next time this event rolls around.

Book Review: Captain Alatriste

2008-07-23T14:31:00.001-04:00

Captain Alatriste
By: Arturo Perez-Reverte

I picked up this book on the recommendation of my grandfather, who told me it was one of his favorite books of all time- and after completing the epic masterpiece myself, can see why he spoke so fondly of the tale. Set in 17th century Spain, the book follows military war hero turned assassin Captain Alatriste on a series of adventures spurring from a botched assassination attempt on the heir to the British crown.

What I can appreciate most about this story is the way the Perez-Reverte doesn’t show his all his cards and lay out the plot to be discovered long before events occur. Just as life, his characters meander about, paint scenes of everyday life at the time and interact with others-beyond those within the immediate story.

Rating: 10! It’s exquisite!

Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary, Cincinnati homeless pets and 'Kitten Season'

2008-07-22T10:17:00.002-04:00

I have a notoriously large soft spot for animals, and one of my clients the Peppermint Pig, exists solely to support Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary, a Cincinnati no-kill animal shelter. Despite the fact that these people are 100 percent committed to their work and cause, it's saddening to know that shelters are overflowing to the point that over 30,000 perfectly healthy cats and dogs are euthanized every year (in Cincinnati alone) because there simply isn't a place for them.

Rory Uhler, the president of Safe Haven Animal Sanctuary, recently did an interview with Scripps Howard Foundation Wire to talk about 'kitten season.' See full article below:

http://shfwire.com/story/global-warming-could-be-causing-a-kitten-boom-experts-say

7/21

2008-07-21T14:11:00.004-04:00

Try as I might to produce a whitty entry to begin the week, the weekend has exhausted my supply of clever thoughts. So en lieu, please enjoy a photo I took in Prague! Happy Monday!

Maybe this social media thing works after all…maybe

2008-07-18T14:51:00.000-04:00

I may be a cynic through and through, but I try my best to refrain from complaining, really and truly.

It takes a certain level of complete and utter dissatisfaction for someone (or at least me) to blog about it. It’s unfortunate that a blog entry (NOT our letter to customer service) caught the attention of the uppers at Network Solutions, but it’s smart of them to monitor the chatter. And it’s appreciated, as a person who had a situation that needed rectifying.

The point in all this lies in the fact that I go round and round with clients all the time about the benefits of social media. Monitor your chatter! Find out what people are saying about your brand- and if bad- use it as a customer service tool (as Matt did by leaving the comment to my previous entry.) It’s genius. Google alerts are an amazing [and free] thing.

As a consumer, I feel better knowing that a brand I’m talking about could be read by the company. As a company, I’m empowered with a tool that is a window into the consumer’s mind.

Awesome!

And I really do hope we can work something out with NetSol.

Highly Disappointing: A Rant

2008-07-17T17:07:00.001-04:00

Today I had a customer service experience that fell flat of my expectations. One of our service providers, Network Solutions, recently updated their internal controls and, during this process, managed to completely disable and change many settings on one of our client’s websites.

And this puts us in quite a pickle. We were informed by their customer service rep that we would have to go back in and manually enable each of the (50+) products in order for them to be available for purchase.

In this business, as in the service industry as a whole, time is money. So this leads to the inevitable question: who gets the bill for this snafu?

Theoretically, the fault lies on the one who makes the mistake, but, shirking their responsibility and washing their hands of the entire situation, we are left with having to take the time to make the storefront operable again.

Do we bill the client, for the updates that we wouldn’t have made if this change hadn’t taken place?
Do we demand a fix or a refund of some sort from the provider?
After all, this is billable time we’re talking about that could’ve been spent working on another client.

Let’s not forget the client whose site this is. They make their money solely off their online sales. How long has the site been like this since the ‘change’ which we were unaware of? How much money could they have lost?

In this case, an apology simply isn’t enough. When the error falls on your shoulders, and it’s causing your clientele to lose money or valued customers this becomes a bigger problem that can't be fixed by an "I'm sorry".

Also, what happens next time they decide to upgrade their control panel? Will we have to do the same thing?

The unsatisfactory resolution and poor organization of Network Solutions has caused us to seriously reconsider our hosting provider.

7/16

2008-07-16T13:55:00.001-04:00

An overcast moment in Cancun, Mexico

Book Review: The Spies of Warsaw

2008-07-15T10:36:00.000-04:00

The Spies of Warsaw
By Allen Furst

It’s the eve of WWII, and conflict is afoot. The city of Warsaw has transformed into a hotbed of intrigue and espionage, crawling with refugees who know too much, foreign correspondents and citizens who happened to fall into the line of spy work.

Jean Francois Mercier, a military attaché working at the French embassy during this time works to uncover conspiracies and military attack plans through various social and a few disreputable connections.

This book was a thoroughly enjoyable read. Furst is able to impeccably capture human reasoning and create engaging, relatable characters. Add some suspense, and you have a thrilling page-turner carefully crafted overtop a historically accurate backdrop.

I find it amazing how Furst is able to take the tiniest detail of this time period and craft a novel around it, complete with believable characters. Kudos to him! I was able to visit Poland, Krakow, and see firsthand the impact WWII had on the country, and can only imagine it amplified in Warsaw. It makes me want to go!

Rating: 9 [Oh snap!]

Up to the minute Alli

2008-07-11T14:13:00.003-04:00

Try as I might to shy away, I'm bound and determined to figure out the mystique behind this twitter phenomenon.

Should you take an interest in my scrolling, confusing and generally arbitrary thoughts, please help yourself to: http://www.twitter.com/abrinkman.

Keep in mind, I don't 'twitter' on the weekend, as I prefer to remain relatively detached on my days of rest.

Have a great weekend!
~A

Very pleased to announce...

2008-07-09T13:10:00.002-04:00

The 2008 EMG Media Resource Guide is now available for download [free] at www.eisenmanagementgroup.com

We've put in some hard work in order to better serve other businesses in our area with their marketing and public relations efforts. --edited by yours truly!

On another note, if you happen to stay in a Carlson hotel from now through September, be sure to check out Voyageur Magazine, their complimentary in-room publication. I'm quoted on page 37, "Dear Diary..." an article about travel journals.

If you don't happen to be traveling, be sure to pick up this week's (the July 14) issue of Woman's World magazine- on page 34 you'll find me talking about my digital camera preferences as a novice photographer.

7/3

2008-07-03T10:08:00.002-04:00

Have a great long weekend!

Earth to become hot dead clump?

2008-06-30T13:22:00.003-04:00

The science world is abuzz with a new “atom smasher” device called the Large Hadron Collider.

What is it? A massive, uber expensive device designed with the intent of discovering ‘invisible matter’ and more spacial dimensions.

I’ve been so intrigued, in fact, that I’ve read up on it in several different publications- and after my research (one such link below,) I was left with several questions as to the validity of this buzz.

The fears of the device are as follows:
-Upon switching on this mystery machine, a black hole will be created which will swallow the Earth. (Well, this would certainly put an end to the mortgage crunch, wouldn’t it?)
- A trial of the machine will produce or “spit out” particles that will render planet Earth a “hot dead clump.”

Let’s discuss for a moment the definition of “hot dead clump,” as this term was mentioned verbatim in every story I’ve reviewed leading me to believe that it’s either some scientific jargon of which I’m unfamiliar, or it was pulled directly from the same ambiguous press release.

Further research into the origins of the word "clump" were unsuccessful. If this term were actually common knowledge, I would understand why the media didn't bother to define it- but, in all honesty, I don't think anyone really knows what a "Hot Dead Clump" is (besides bad, of course.)

Inquiring minds want to know: which particles specifically turn planets into hot dead clumps? More importantly, what is a hot dead clump?

Thankfully for us, the Earth has a one in 50 million chance of becoming a hot dead clump when the machine is switched on.

See full article here: http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/06/30/doomsdaycollider.ap/index.html

Hot dead clump or not, the debate is pretty cool.

6/26

2008-06-26T20:02:00.000-04:00

R.I.P Uncle Johnny