by Miriam Hara | May 24, 2024 | Advertising, Agency, Branding, Business Success, Creative, Marketing
‘Marketing Creative’: What’s that?
Marketing Creative is the ability to hone in on a brand’s message. Regardless of the industry it’s imperative to creatively articulate the brand message. Ultimately this is achieved by a creative team’s use of their transferable skills. These skills are perfected by years of experience and diverse exposure in many industries to achieve all kinds of mandates. For instance, my career has allowed me to contribute to many different industries (B2B and direct to consumer) in a variety of marketing mandates. It has enabled me to develop in myself and my team a nimbleness that is quite unique. And that development takes time and diligent effort not just to meet the requirements but to excel in them.
Despite the rules and regulations and in spite of the limitations!
The challenge many marketers face is attempting to break through the clutter and be different in an arena where they feel they have been handcuffed! Whether working on mandates in the Alcoholic Beverage Industry, Food Industry or Healthcare Industry, each industry has a set of advertising regulations. And these regulations must be adhered to. It’s very easy to throw in the towel and say”we can’t do this “and we aren’t allowed to do that”. That’s looking at the regulations at face value. When a brand has something unique to say, there is always a way to address that uniqueness.
Each industry is its own universe with its accompanied black holes! When we get called in, we work our marketing nimbleness to creatively articulate the brand’s messaging, uniqueness and image. And we need to do all that by avoiding being sucked in by a black hole that leaves your brand completely in the dark and void of any distinctiveness.
Everyone touts outside the box thinking…but it needs to be done inside the ‘regulation’ box.
It’s working inside the box of regulations that matters. It’s thinking outside the regulations but staying inside the box that makes brands perform. Achieving marketing creative prowess takes time, energy, and experience.The more you do it, the more you excel. With a career that transcends industry niche and focus, over three decades it has become a way of thinking for myself and my team. We must still endeavour to stand out without infringing on the rules that govern the industry…that’s what makes great creative. Actually, that’s what makes great marketing creative!
How do you creatively articulate a brand’s message when your hands are all tied up in knots?
by Miriam Hara | May 3, 2024 | Administration, Business Success, Management
Goodbyes are never easy and breaking up is hard to do no matter if it’s a personal relationship or a business relationship. Scratch that. If you are working in a good organization that caringly fosters culture and growth, chances are you are fortunate to share a personal relationship at some level with your colleagues. So the end result is that all relationships are personal, even the business ones.
It’s a Small World:
If there is truth with the saying that the world is small, the same can be said about the business community. Whatever your profession is; in the business world of marketing, sales, logistics, or finance; or if it’s in the medical arena and you’re a pharmacist, nurse, family doctor, or a medical specialist; that professional community is small.
It is in the interest of all parties to act professionally when saying goodbye because chances are you will run into one another, or yes, may even need the assistance of one another in the future. For instance, when transitioning from one company to another, you might find yourself working with former colleagues or clients in a new setting. You just never know! Working alongside one another every day, for 1year, 5years, or 15years…it is inevitable to have a personal relationship. And sometimes, even if it’s the best working relationship, there needs to be a parting of ways.
The “Be-Kind” Philosophy:
Relationships work both ways. So even when it comes time for a business relationship to end…keep your head high, and your heart kind. That has been my philosophy. In the years I’ve been in business I’ve had to say my fair share of good-byes.
The Reasons for Calling it Quits:
I’ve had to say my fair share of saying goodbye to awesome clients as there was a “change of guards”, or a change in their direction. And of course, I have had to say my goodbyes to fabulous team members that I had built an amazing rapport with. The reasons for their leaving range from a personal change, or to wanting something different, or just needing a change, or quite frankly, it just wasn’t working anymore.
I’ve always been accepting of the choices or the situation and have been professional about it. As a result of this, many of my former clients are my friends, and some clients have come back. Former team members still reach out to me to say hi, or for advice and it’s a beautiful thing. I acknowledge that there are some awful situations that merit being cut off at the pass forever and ever. However, doing it respectfully removes the drama and leaves the situation behind rather than it being part of history.
Time Brings Perspective:
In the interest of transparency, sometimes you need a break after the breakup. However if the breakup was done respectfully, then it’s only a matter of time before the ability to open the door and reach out becomes even remotely possible. When saying goodbye to a client or an employee or employer isn’t done professionally, you not only cut off any more history to be developed between you…but you amputate a part of your career as well. You can no longer reach out or draw in advice from people that can help you in your future endeavours. It’s really being short-sighted and self-sabotaging. It also really cuts into your networking opportunities.
Don’t Burn Bridges:
There is some truth to most sayings… and this one really resonates here. Not burning the bridge that links the 2 parties together is sound advice. When all is said and done, there are always 3 sides to a story… 3 perspectives to the same story…your side, the other side and the truth. By dealing with it professionally, you get the time you need to be able to look back at the situation with maybe a fresh perspective.
Navigating goodbyes in professional relationships is an art that requires kindness, respect, and foresight. Whether bidding farewell to clients, colleagues, or employers, the manner in which we part ways speaks volumes about our professionalism and character. By embracing the “be-kind” philosophy and understanding that relationships transcend transactions, we not only preserve bridges but also pave the way for potential future collaborations.
So, the next time you find yourself at the crossroads of a professional departure, remember to leave with grace, knowing that every goodbye is an opportunity for growth, reflection, and perhaps, a future hello…quicker than you realize.
by Miriam Hara | Apr 26, 2024 | Business Success, Content, Marketing
Think about your local business around the corner when you’re about to click on the buy button on an online shopping property. It can’t be said enough. Just think about everyday expressions about the way of the world today or actually…the ‘perceptional’ size of our world. Expressions like, It’s a wild world out there, or actually it’s a small world, or better yet, the world is your oyster are only a few examples. These expressions all direct us to thinking of our world in a very global sense. Our world is definitely evolving rapidly – and in many ways, “thinking local” is no longer the in-thing to do.
Technology Threatens the Local Fabric.
I see the technology advancement as a good thing, for the most part. From the inception of cars, trains, planes, to the first flight to the moon. Add the adoption of the internet, email and smart phones. Sprinkle in the proliferation of online shopping properties (amazon!). Blend in all the social media platforms like LinkedIn, Facetime, Instagram and business communications like Zoom…
Our world is small and getting increasingly smaller by the minute.
We can talk, no actually, we can see, anyone instantly that lives across the globe…we claim to have contacts and access to professionals that we’ve never shared a handshake with and partner with them. Yet, in spite of all this advanced technology making us feel that the world is shrinking, it’s also becoming more far reaching. Perhaps the term is that I’m searching for is “accessibility”.
Our world has become uber-accessible for us all. And for the most part that’s a good thing.
With the availability of our world being at our fingertips, comes a responsibility to set our sights a little closer. Actually, a lot closer…to the corner store; to the cool boutique or consignment shop quite literally, around the corner or the local cheese boutique or butcher or _________________(fill in the blank). Don’t get me wrong, I get it…it’s so easy to scroll, autofill and click to purchase without leaving the couch. It’s so accessible.
But it’s not very local-minded…nor is it very community-focused. When COVID happened, admittedly, there was a surge in online shopping, However there was also a renewed sense of supporting the retail stores around our neighbourhoods which I believe is starting to wane. With COVID, there was a shared commitment and responsibility to invest in the community where we lived. People recognized the importance of supporting their neighbourhood stores and restaurants. This shift wasn’t just about convenience and I would also say, it wasn’t about costs; it was about preserving the unique character of local communities.
Think Local: The ripple effect to each and every one of us, is well worth it.
Supporting local businesses bolsters the resilience of our communities. When we spend our money locally, we contribute to the economic vitality of our neighbourhoods. Local businesses employ our neighbours and help sustain our local economies.
Neighbourhood shops add flair and style to each community… they often propel a community’s vibrancy and identity. Small community businesses offer products and services that are original and unique…adding richness and and an emotive connection to their communities.
Shopping at your favourite local retailer may enable you to walk to the store, making you more physically active…You’ll get your steps in …and even if you have take a car, it often involves shorter rides, reducing carbon emissions associated with further distance transportation (not to mention that your local store won’t contribute logistically, in the same may as your giant big box retailers).
Local business is good for the soul and our mental well being. Local business fosters personal connections…a hello on the way in, a tid-bit of conversation, a familiar smile….getting to know people behind the counter or other patrons… provides all of us with a sense of community that that online properties an big box stores can’t replicate.
By choosing local you’re investing in your community, enhancing its unique character, and strengthening the bonds that hold it together. And you get the product or service that you need. That should make you feel very good. And that’s just a win for everybody.
What are your thoughts about supporting the local community?
by Miriam Hara | Jan 18, 2024 | Business Success
It goes without saying that the way we build and maintain relationships has undergone a significant transformation. We all have COVID to thank for that! That isn’t a bad thing… remote working has presented us with both opportunities and challenges. When it comes to developing meaningful connections in the professional realm, building new business relationships, it has given us pause. How do we go about business development today? How do we forge new business relationships in this new dynamic? As a main lead in business development, here are my thoughts.
The Social Scene
If you aren’t on social platforms, it’s time to do so! I can see the eyes rolling now! Really, social media platforms are not just for sharing memes and cat videos… although those are really cute! Which social platform or platforms you use to garner relationsips is totally dependent on your intended target audience. Let’s face it, social media offers us some pretty powerful tools for connecting with potential business partners and clients. LinkedIn, in particular, is the go-to for professionals. But that’s not the only platform for professionals. Instagram can also be a good resource to round out your “online presence”. Remember, potential clients and potential business partners have a social life too! Be consistent and stay fresh. Share relevant content, and engage with posts from others in your industry. That’s how you’ll gain traction and start building a one on one relationship with your industry’s community.
Alive and Thriving: Networking Events
The restrictions that COVID placed on us have eased off significantly. So networking both “physically” and “virtually” offer up amazing opportunities to meet new people, and start forging relationships. Whether your objective is to develop business or become more visible in the industry you work in, industry conferences are the place for you to be. Make the most of of these network events. You can sponsor a conference. We did that recently at the Pharmaceutical Marketing Congress and it provided awesome visibility. Or if that’s too much to take on, sponsor an event within the conferences or be part of a talk or panel that is being featured. If you can’t do that, take part in the Q&A after panel discussions or talks. Whatever you do, approach conferences with intention. Research the event, the attendees, and topics beforehand. Prepare engaging questions and insights to stand out during discussions. Remember, events, whether they are physical or virtual are not just about collecting business cards; they’re about making genuine connections. Post-event, don’t forget to follow up with personalized messages to solidify the connections you’ve made.
Keeping Ahead of the Curve
Keeping abreast of “the new” within your industry is a must. Potential clients and business partners need to do that too. Seek out online courses and workshops that are relevant to your industry. These provide an excellent opportunity to acquire new skills while mingling with like-minded professionals. These learning platforms allow you to connect with individuals who share your passion. Collaborative learning environments can lead to both personal and professional relationships… and offer the added plus of greater visibility within the business community.
Serendipity and Kismet
Do you believe in chance? In fate? Maybe that’s a topic for another discussion. Whether you call it open mindedness, serendipity or kismet being open to encounters and unexpected opportunities in whatever form or platform they come in, is definitely a must in business development. Virtual connections can sometimes lead to unexpected collaborations or introductions that you didn’t anticipate. Be receptive to the possibilities that the digital world can offer, and you might find yourself forging new business relationships in the most unexpected places.
The way we forge new business relationships has evolved…but that isn’t anything new in business. Business is always evolving…we just have to keep in step … and step it up in order to thrive in this new dynamic and build valuable connections that propel your business forward.
How have you stepped up your business development strategies? Please share them here or contact me here. (And that’s another way to start new relationships!)
by Miriam Hara | Oct 11, 2023 | Business Success
If karma is real, does business karma also exist? It stands to reason that if you believe in the concept of what goes around comes around, similar to personal karma, businesses too can be subject to its influence. What is the essence of karma? Rooted in religion, karma can be defined in many ways. At its core, however, karma revolves around the principle of cause and effect. In the context of business karma, it extends beyond small business and entrepreneurship and encompasses large multinational corporations that should prioritize it.
Business isn’t personal, on that we can all agree. But the way that a business approaches and conducts itself – the good, the bad and the ugly – says much about the culture and persona of the business. Ultimately the conduct and culture is what shapes its karma. Business leaders who consistently exhibit positive behaviour in everyday situations directly contribute to the success of the business they are in and foster good karma.
There are a few principles of karma that businesses should embrace to cultivate good karma on a daily basis.
Generosity:
Generosity lies at the heart of the philosophy of good karma. It goes beyond mere acts of charity and community contributions, although those are essential as well. In short, it could best be described as mentoring. Generosity involves giving of one’s time, protecting and nurturing others without expecting immediate benefits for the organization. It could entail helping individuals break into an industry through networking or volunteering to speak at school seminars. Let us not forget the age-old adage: Charity begins at home. Therefore, leaders and managers should extend their generosity to their teams and partners and that doesn’t only mean in monetary terms. In today’s environment, monetary incentive is only part of the bigger value need that team members are looking for. It’s about being supportive of all team members and paying it forward without any intention of receiving anything in return. Such generosity will undoubtedly come back around.
Fairness:
Practicing fairness in business means seeing situations as they truly are and setting aside our egos. Inevitably, businesses encounter challenging, messy, or ambiguous circumstances. We’ve all (unfortunately so) witnessed or heard of colleagues facing disrespectful situations comparable to emotionally painful divorces, complete with bullying and threats. When confronted with unforeseen or complex business challenges, it is crucial to approach them with a win-win philosophy. No one should lose face, and negative displays of power should be avoided. While ethics and professionalism should be standard in business, kindness and justice are often neglected in the fast-paced business world. Incorporating fairness into our business dealings contributes significantly to cultivating good karma.
Positivity:
Quick reactions and decisions made under stress or panic rarely lead to positive outcomes. Instead, they tend to amplify the bad karma that initially placed a business in a difficult position. In today’s dynamic market environment, businesses often face uncertainty and numerous impending changes. Navigating these challenges requires resilience and the ability to maintain a clear vision. Good karma thrives when a business remains steadfast, refrains from blindly pursuing alternative paths, and maintains a positive and optimistic outlook amidst setbacks. While it may sound “new age-ish,” maintaining and focusing on positivity truly pays off.
Mindfulness:
In our interconnected world, being mindful of the impact our businesses have on the planet is a definite must. Mindful businesses prioritize sustainability, environmental responsibility, and eco-friendly practices. They actively seek ways to reduce waste, conserve resources, and minimize their carbon footprint. Moreover, they recognize the social element of their actions. Social accountability has become increasingly important, with ordinary individuals, celebrities, and businesses being held responsible for their “not so nice” behaviour. Upholding ethical practices, transparency, and social responsibility aligns businesses with the expectations of their stakeholders and nurtures good business karma.
These four principles—Generosity, Fairness, Positivity and Mindfulness —serve as the pillars for fostering good business karma. How do you feel about this concept? Do you practice any principles that you believe promote good business karma? Share your thoughts and experiences here.
by Miriam Hara | Oct 3, 2023 | Agency, Business Success, Communications, Creative, Design, Marketing
What Is Design Thinking?
We all live and work in a world that is constantly evolving and transforming. Design thinking helps guideus through the maze of challenges that traditional problem-solving methods can’t quite navigate. For sure we’ve all encountered challenges and have gotten stuck with a problem and think, “There’s gotta be a better way”? Enter design thinking. Think of it as a buddy system for your brain. It’s about teaming up, caring about the people you’re helping, and coming up with ideas that haven’t been chewed over a million times.
Design thinking is a versatile approach to problem-solving, transcending industries and disciplines.No matter what your profession is…design thinking can help you create innovative solutions that truly matter.
Lets Break It Down In 5 Easy Steps
These non linear steps, rather they are fluid, allowing for continuous refinement and improvement.
1. Empathize: Understand your users. It’s like getting into someone else’s shoes. You gotta feel what they feel. Chat with ’em, hang out, just get their vibe.
2. Define: Frame the problem. So what’s the real issue here? Break it down into simply succinct phrases and make it clear.
3. Ideate: Generate solutions. Time for a brain party! Toss around any and all ideas. Crazy is welcome. Let the creative juices flow!
4. Prototype: Bring ideas to life. Show it! Chicken scratches will do! Make a doodle, a rough thingy—anything to get your idea across.
5. Test: Refine and improve. Can you say research? I can’t say it enough. Get out there! Let your target poke at it, tell you what’s up, and then tweak as needed.
Is It Really Worth It?
Whether its about product design or social innovation, design thinking offers benefits that go beyond simple problem-solving.
Unleash Creativity: Design thinking encourages creativity and innovation. Fostering an “safe” environment, your giving your brain permission to go wild!
Better with Buddies: Collaboration drives innovation. When everyone’s in, ideas get prolific!
Users Dig It: Understand and empathy provides perspective. If your users are smiling…you’ve got a win!
Roll with the Punches: Don’t get propriety about the solution. Being flexing and open to change is the name of the game. Change is cool.
Some Real World Evidence:
- Sharing platform Airbnb was facing a crisis in 2009, with little revenue and lackluster growth. The founders turned to design thinking to identify the root cause of their problems, which turned out to be the quality of their listings. They noticed their photos were kinda meh. They jazzed that up, and now they’re big-time.
- Stanford University’s d.school: The Hasso Plattner Institute of Design at Stanford University, better known as the d.school, has been a pioneer in design thinking education. These professors teach the good stuff. Helping future world-changers do their thing.
- IDEO.org: This non-profit design and innovation consultancy focuses on addressing poverty and social challenges through human-centered design. They’re out there fighting the good fight. From health to learning, they’re making days brighter.
Thinking the Design Way
Embracing this way of thinking is about more than adopting a new methodology—it’s about cultivating a new mindset.
• Feeling is Knowing: Give a genuine listen. It’s cool to care.
• Messy is Okay: Life’s a rollercoaster. Hang tight and enjoy the ride.
• Mix It Up: More minds, more magic. Different folks, different strokes.
• Do the Thing: Whip something up. Test it out. Fix, repeat. Action beats perfection.
Design thinking is so much more than just a problem-solving methodology – it’s a mindset and a way of life. It’s not just some buzzword. For us at 3H, it’s the ‘secret’. We dig it, enabling us to deliver exceptional results for our clients.
