Brand Mix

Here's my weekly summary of interesting and entertaining posts and articles. More posts at the bottom of the page in "Martin's Shared Items":

1) Eat Your Vegetables, They're Good For You: The Dozen
I love this idea of comparing persuasive tactics: marketer vs. moms speak. I have a 5-year old who demands a high level of excellence in the use of persuasive tactics. I figure if I start making a note of anything that works, I may get some great ideas that can be applied back to marketing.

2) Hormel Hits a Home Run, at Least in the Media: Freakonomics
Spam is back! Recognizing a PR opportunity, Hormel has positioned Spam as the perfect food for those trying to save money in these troubled times. Now available as individually packaged slices!

3) 10 Things I Hate about Web 2.0: Gaping Void
A rage against 2.0. Here's No. 3: "The same usual suspects whining endlessly on about the same usual suspects."

4) The Rising Power of Private Label: Branding Strategy Insider
An interesting history of the evolution of Private Label in the UK, one of the most sophisticated Private Label markets.

5) How To Win the New Yorker Cartoon Caption Contest: Slate
Patrick House reveals how he won the New Yorker caption contest using some important marketing principles. Know your customer (including the gatekeepers), know the product that appeals to them and then promote, promote, promote.