New Features on In-Kind Connection

It's for the greater good!

This holiday season I've been busy improving In-Kind Connection. Almost two years ago I founded In-Kind Connection, a complimentary service sponsored by columbus imPRessions connecting non-profits in need of in-kind items to businesses and donors who can help.

In order to provide a better service, I recently updated the layout of the site and today I added a new and improved feature. Now, with the help of Google forms, nonprofits with needs or business with haves can directly submit their request on an on-line form. I'm hoping this addition to the site will make submitting requests easier.

Have a nonprofit need or business have? Try out the new form and I'll get your request on the site and then broadcasted to various social media channels to help spread the word.

Happy New Year!

Non-Profits Why Not Enlist A Social Media Army?

Social media can be a non-profit organizations dream. A relatively new, basically free venue to create awareness, cultivate relationships, and enlist a social media army.

That's right, enlist a social media army. The beauty of Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and other social media platforms is that you can spread your message, connect with individuals and create calls to action.

So why not increase your awareness. Instead of voicing your message all alone, why not enlist some of your volunteers who are using social media and ask them to help you create awareness. It could work similar to this old Faberge Shampoo commercial.

This could be a great way to update your speaker's bureau. Using the Internet is a great way to reach a brand new target market.

Before enlisting your army, make sure you select volunteers you know well and have a good relationship with. In order to control the message and keep brand consistency create a daily key message and send to your army. They can then tweet your message, add it to their Facebook page or to any other social media platform they use. Be sure to add your organizations web site in your message to give the recipient a place to find more information.

Garage Band Publicist

A couple weeks ago I was contacted by a manager of a local garage band.  The band is gaining popularity and in order to take the next step they are considering hiring a publicist.  He wanted to see what columbus imPRessions could do for the band to generate more exposure and get them into magazines.

Because of my past life at Q-FM-96, my love for music - especially rock, and the fact that I almost left Columbus to work at a record label years ago (decide to choose stability and marriage over a rock-n-roll lifestyle), I was very intrigued to say the least!

Being a publicist is so much more than just magazine articles.  It's about taking the brand of the band and marketing it using a targeted approach to generate a buzz and loyal following in a niche group.  "Infiltrate and Plaster" - You must focus on the the niche, infiltrate their environment, then plaster the band's brand everywhere in that environment.  

Also, because of social media, generating exposure for a rock band has so many options. Sure band's have MySpace, but with Twitter, Blogging, Widgets, YouTube, ReverbNation and other social media platforms bands can get to the niche with the click of a button.  Bands can enlist their fans too.  Word of mouth marketing by fans on social media sites immediately becomes viral.  Traditional PR can still happen, but nowadays with savvy marketing and social media traditional media is taking a back seat.  By thinking beyond the box the possibilities are limitless.  Very exciting opportunity could be made available for this band and any other band.

I left the manager with some things to think about like: What is their brand? Who is their target demographic? What are their likes, hangouts, habits, patterns, etc?  What message do they want to relay to this group?  What are the band's goals? What social media platforms does the band currently use? How do they currently promote the band?   

I could have gone on and one but didn't want to overwhelm the manager too much.  Haven't heard back yet.  We'll see.  If I don't hear back at least for a few moments I got to revisit that rock and roll life I left behind year's ago.

Bell's Event at DeepWood...(should be called DeepGood!)

While wasting some time on facebook last week, I heard about an event that sparked my interest. A dude I barely know updated his status saying that he was going to a Bell's Tasting at DeepWood, so I checked the DeepWood website, called and got a reservation (thanks to someone who had cancelled).  I had always wanted to try the new restaurant and I was already a fan of Bell's beer so I was sold when I checked out the incredible menu and beer pairings, I was sold.

The overall experience was amazing, relaxing, educational, and deliciously unforgettable.  Their saleswoman described each type of beer while the chef explained some of the more exotic entrees and we listened, learned, ate, drank, and smiled.  But of course I was curious about the marketing approach.  I think it was the Bell's distributor that I cornered and interrogated ... it turns out the event was put on by the DeepWood owner, who asked Bells to be involved.   Apparently it took a few flyers in the area and the event was sold out.  They will be having a similar tasting every month.  After it was said and done, Bell's had some new loyal fans and a whole new group of yuppies had experienced what DeepWood had to offer.  I am sure I'm not the only one who is still talking about what a great evening it was.  (Did I just call myself a yuppy?)

I also found it interesting that I "heard" about this event on facebook through a random status update. It made it feel more like a discovery since there was virtually no advertising and I wasted no time trying to get in the door.  Everyone seems to be wondering how to use facebook for promotional purposes and I think I found the answer... very subtly.  

Social Media, Is it the New Marketing?

The other day I had lunch with a friend who I haven't seen in quite some time.  It was great catching up and sharing stories about our families and busy lives.  Also, because we are both in marketing, we spent quite a bit of time talking about marketing and social media.

My friend is the marketing director for The Diamond Cellar.  Over the years The Diamond Cellar has relied heavily on traditional media, mostly radio to market their message.  While this has been successful, they are now beginning to look at non-traditional avenues, mostly social media.

The Diamond Cellar is experimenting in Facebook and just recently built a products page.  You can see it here.  While there, why not become a fan, we did.  They are linking their page with the Facebook pages of the product lines they carry in their jewelry store to maximize their exposure.  Smart move!

I told her about Twitter and the benefits it has brought columbus imPRessions.  By burning our feed through twitterfeed, we direct more visitors to our site, and create awareness to our media followers on stories we want to get in the news.  It's almost like having a PR coordinator on staff sending out press releases on our behalf.  I highly recommended it for the Diamond Cellar.

I also talked to her about having a blog.  We strongly feel blogs are important for business. Because of the economy, potential client's are becoming more cautious about signing a contract so quickly.  With this in mind, we always encourage potential clients to visit our blog.  This is where they learn more about us.  Not only professionally but personally as well.  On our blog we share our personality, our styles and our feelings.  Potential clients start to develop a personal relationship with us on-line which makes them more comfortable and confident to do business together.  

I think a blog would be a great opportunity for the Diamond Cellar too.  They could include personal stories from customers, introduce staff, highlight product lines and the designers, use polling to get customer feedback, advertise exclusive promotions, and provide special offers to blog followers.  This would develop deeper customer relationships, give customers an interactive experience and can also serve as great market research.

We both left the lunch charged and ready to tackle the social media world. So charged it prompted this post and the word of mouth marketing for The Diamond Cellar.  The opportunities are endless and we continually learn new things each day.  

Jen, if the Diamond Cellar needs some social media pointers, let me know.  Would love to help and learn of other social media opportunities with you along the way.

Kidslinked.com

Just wanted to share a website that may be of interest to some our readers (Ali!)...  www.kidslinked.com was started in central Ohio and has grown to include locations throughout Ohio and Indiana.  It's a great resource where parents can find local events, activities, discounts, childcare and much more.   The site is well-organized, visually appealing, and the info is always up to date (a topic recently discussed in the previous post!)

It was started in central Ohio by two busy parents and we wanted to congratulate them on their innovation and success.  

It seems that most of kidslinked awareness has come from word of mouth marketing, which can be impactful, especially when it is among the parent/ family niche.  We would love to help boost their online visibility and public awareness and (of course) have plenty of fresh ideas on how to market the site (even continuing on a grassroots level).  As fellow central Ohio entrepreneurs, we truly would hate to see their concept and brand dissolve as competitors join the market.  

Deweys Pizza is Almost Here...

...and they have already made me a fan.   Central Ohio's first Dewey's Pizza is opening next month in Grandview and they are certainly familiar with word of mouth marketing.   It's a good old fashioned  thing called making friends and opening doors.  Use us as an example... We met with the manager several months ago to chat about partnering with a local charity, their grassroots marketing efforts, and the Columbus community in general.  Then last week they invited us to come in and try check out the place.(What do you know, now we are blogging about it). Obviously, I was all over that, made and immediate reservation and will be looking forward to friendnetting© , trying the food (I have heard good things) and checking out the scene.  It will be  a lot of people's first impression of the overall Dewey's brand so welcoming the neighborhood is a genius start.  We are just curious what is next in the marketing plan, Dewey's?... Additional PR efforts could help to get more than Grandview and Upper Arlington in the door.  Let us know if you need help. 

Know Any Brides? ....

Isn't it amazing how so many in the online world "check out" for the holidays... blog hits are down, emails slow, and you hear a lot of "we'll look into that after the 1st of the year."  It is truly wonderful that some take time to focus on non-virtual friends and family, but I also want to make sure none of our readers missed the announcement about... the Sample Sale at La Jeune Mariee this weekend!

So many  engagements happen  between Thanksgiving and New Years (why is that, dudes?) and the 40 - 60% discounts on designer gowns should not be missed by any those new brides to be!  I won't even mention terms like "brides on a budget" or "recessionista",  as so many (including the media) are inundated with these "econonowns." (I clearly just made that one up).  But see our La Jeune Mariee Dispatch mention on Jan. 1 -fashion reporter Kristy Eckert explains this trend and mentions the sale at our favorite Worthington boutique.

Even if you are not a bride, doesn't everyone love to give useful advice when it comes to weddings, or is it just the ladies who are reminiscing their own wedding planning days? Anyway,  hurry and send this link to any brides you know- they'll be so happy you may be invited to be in the wedding party....  http://www.LaJeuneMariee.com/samplesale

2009 NonProfit Marketing Ideas

A new year is here. A time for change, new beginnings, re-organization. New marketing ideas.

It's now more than ever that nonprofits need a strong marketing and PR strategy to stand out above the rest and capture the public's attention. There is a way to do just that and it doesn't have to cost much. You just need to be willing to think beyond the box, dive into social media, and come up with multi-media campaigns that simultaneously attract more individuals for a greater ROI.

Need an example: OK, here's one - a multi-media campaign idea. In our past life we worked for the local chapter of a very well known nonprofit organization. It was summer of '07 and we were preparing for our next fiscal year which would start in September. The regions were struggling to make budget and something was needed to create buzz and excitement in the organization. So Colleen and I put our creativity to work. We needed a call to action with a hook and excitement. During our brainstorming, we realized our chapter would be celebrating its 25th anniversary. We had it - buzz, excitement and a call to action!

A multi-media campaign was born inviting everyone to "become a part of the celebration" giving them a handful of calls to action in which they could do that. The messaging, and branding became the center for every facet of the organization - volunteer, outreach, program, development/fundraising, and of course, marketing and PR. Various targeted and strategic marketing pieces were delivered through Internet, social networking, PR, mailings, email, word of mouth, and events all simultaneously so various groups were hearing the same message but in a variety of ways.

Success! So successful, the chapter continued the campaign after our departure using the exact same strategy, messaging and branding we created. In fact, they are still using the campaign, well past the 25th anniversary mark. However, we would have recommended concluding the campaign when the 25th anniversary truly came to an end in September '08. Continuing something passed its point can be misleading or become tiresome.

All of this is easy, achievable. affordable and fun. Need assistance? columbus imPRessions can help. Just email us at info@columbusimpressions.com.

Flight of the Conchords wants to know . . Are Your Lyrics Bottomless? Check this out!

Can you rap sync? Flight of the Conchords and HBO are holding a contest. Creating a lip sync to their new video - Hiphopopopotamus vs. Rhymeroceros - and you can win your spot on HBO. Contest ends 1/25/09. Check out the way cool site here for the video and details. 

Great way to use Internet and social networking. Seems to be all the buzz already. Just passing a good thing along! Have fun!

Christmas Gift Idea- Pooch Portrait

A very talented and creative friend of mine has come up with a product that I just had to share.  Jennifer Beck is a photographer and graduate of Columbus College of Art & Design and she is selling these hilarious portraits of YOUR pet in the early 1900s.  For the best quality, she will come and photograph your dog and then magically transform them to antique photos.  (photoshop is like magic, right?)   On the left are a few of her pieces.  What a perfect gift- hurry she may be able to get a few orders in time for Christmas!  (Be sure to tell her Coley referred you)

For info and pricing, contact jbeck@go.ccad.edu  

Great Holiday Event brings German Village Publicity!

The husband and I were experiencing the early stages of cabin fever yesterday and decided to get out and do something festive.  We ended up going back in time to Germany in the 18oos, where we walked down snowy cobblestone streets with glowing luminaries,  heard Christmas carolers, and stopped into some of the small businesses who offered warm cider, wine and cookies.  Seriously, who knew this kind of merriment still existed?!  Well, it did at the Annual "Village Lights...Shop, Dine & Stroll," which took place in German Village on Sunday December 7th. 

Although reading the cheesy description I just wrote almost made me nauseous, last night it was absolutely perfect.  Getting off the couch, away from the tv & newspaper where all you hear is "economy crisis, layoffs, and bailout plans" was just what we needed.   The recession was actually the perfect reason to attend this free event and spend a few bucks at these independently owned businesses.  So, way to go German Village business community! I know I will be back again soon for dinner, drinks and more shopping.  (And way to go Adam for taking your wife out for a romantic holiday evening.)  

Stroll for Epilepsy Facebook Application

The Epilepsy Foundation of Central Ohio needs your help!  Next month is the Stroll for Epilepsy at Polaris Fashion Place on January 31, 2009.

To help create awareness we created at Facebook application.   If you're on Facebook become a fan and help us spread awareness for the event.

Over 100,000 people in central Ohio were touched by epilepsy this year and the Foundation was there to help.  In order to continue their mission of helping prevent, control and cure epilepsy as well as help people with epilepsy through services, education, advocacy and research, they need community support.

Consider forming a walk team, donating to the event or becoming a fan and spread awareness of this neurological condition through this event.

Starbucks(Red) Launches Tomorrow - Sneak Peak Today

Starting tomorrow Starbucks will team up with Red this holiday season.

Starting November 27 till January 2, every time you buy a (STARBUCKS)RED Exclusive beverage:

Espresso Truffle, Gingersnap Latte, or Peppermint Twist Mocha

from a participating Starbucks locations, they will give 5¢ to the Global Fund to help save lives in Africa. 

And in support of World AIDS Day on December 1, they will donate 5¢ of every hand-crafted beverage they sell that day. 

Get a sneak peak of the video here.

Getting a free skinny vanilla latte (happened yesterday at Polaris drive-thru location), inspi(red) me to give back with word of mouth marketing. 

Great cause!  Now go, get your coffee on!

The Gift of Holiday Publicity

Everyone is thinking about the holidays right now, so tailor your message accordingly.  Obviously, not everything can apply, but charities can capitalize on the giving season and work with the media to spread the word this time of year.  For example:

HOLIDAY GIVING IS EASY

WITH CHARITY IN MIND

(COLUMBUS, OHIO) The holidays and new year are a time of generosity and central Ohioans are looking for unique and meaningful gifts.  Charities like the Epilepsy Foundation of Central Ohio offer numerous ways that individuals, families and businesses can contribute.   The Stroll For Epilepsy is coming up, so there are plenty of ways to get involved now!

-Families:  Make a donation in honor of a loved one with Epilepsy, include in holiday cards.

-Individuals: For your holiday party, ask guests to bring a donation and sign up for your Stroll For Epilepsy team (and get back together on January 31st for the event!).

- Businesses: Ask employees to attend the upcoming Stroll For Epilepsy, donate auction items for the event.

The mission of the Epilepsy Foundation of Central Ohio is to enhance the quality of life for those affected by Epilepsy and to increase the understanding of epilepsy in Central Ohio.  Approximately 77% of every dollar donated goes toward this mission.  Remember that donations made before the end of the year are tax deductible for 2008!

About the event:  On January 31^st 2009, this family friendly walk takes strollers through both levels of the very popular Polaris Fashion Place. Held in the wintertime, it’s the perfect opportunity to get out of the house, get some exercise, and take part in making a difference for those affected by epilepsy. The walk includes lots of family fun and the chance to win some great prizes. Register Online!  Go to www.epilepsy-ohio.org and click on Stroll 2009.  Registration is free but participants are encouraged to raise a goal of $100.  The Foundation’s goal is to raise $100,000 through this event.  All funds raised stay local!

The Epilepsy Foundation of Central Ohio’s goal is to enhance the quality of life for those affected by Epilepsy and to increase the understanding of epilepsy in Central Ohio.  Our Foundation works to prevent, control and cure epilepsy through services, education advocacy and research.

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Unique Visitor from Alaska Wanted

Still no unique visitor from Alaska. We continue to look for that visitor to give us the red dot on Alaska for our ClusterMap (at the bottom of site).

Maybe these key words will help . . .

Sarah Palin, glaciers, Juneau, fishing, bears, salmon, caribou, Yukon Route Scenic Railroad, Iditarod, dog sled, snow, ice, gas pipeline, Glacier Bay.

Or, maybe if you know of someone from Alaska you can direct them to our site, sort of word of mouth marketing.

We'll give them a warm welcome.

Alaskans Have Really Dry Skin

We are doing this post for two reasons:

1.  Because we think Vaseline launched the advertising campaign for their Clinical Therapy Lotion in a pretty cool way.  Vaseline actually went to Kodiak, Alaska and asked people to try their new product.  One lady responded to the call and through word of mouth got a bunch of people to try and buy the product.  Word spread and the marketing tactic worked!  With winter coming up you might want to give the product a try.  Before you go shopping, sign-up for a $1.00 off coupon online.

2.  Because we are doing a little search engine test.  If you scroll down to the bottom of our site you will see a ClusterMap.  All the red dots indicate areas across the world where unique visitors check out our site.  As you can see there are no dots in Alaska.  By writing this post we are going to see if this prompts anyone from Alaska to visit our site.

If you are from Alaska and stumble upon our site - welcome.  Feel free to give us all in the lower 48 a comment shout out!

Fresh Goes Better! The Fresh Website of Bel Air. A website that Freshens Breath!

In this blogging, online day and age, typical websites are quickly losing their luster.  Sometimes all a customer needs is to look up hours, location, or check out the general services, which of course should be easy to access.  But once this is done often times there isn't a reason to go back.  Cool graphics and pictures grow old after just a visit or two these days.  

But finally, there is a way to keep info and graphics fresh, without having to be a dorkulator or bothering your graphic designer friend for help (again!).   One of our brilliant contacts has custom designed a content management system which makes it incredibly easy for anyone to maintain their own site!  These guys are wizards... and they know a good margarita, we saw it first hand at lunch on Friday.

A blog is another way for businesses to keep that fresh information coming.  It also gives consumers a chance to get to know and trust a business, other than just checking out the primary site.  And it's free!  columbus imPRessions has plenty of ideas for using social networking to your advantage.  It's basically word of mouth marketing, only online.  Check out our blog sometime!  www.columbusimpressions.com  Just goofin.  

A Shout out to the Grandview Chamber

As previously mentioned, columbus imPRessions joined the Grandview Chamber and has discovered so much more than just networking and business referrals.  It is the feeling of belonging, camaraderie,  love for our little neighborhood that sits right next to downtown Columbus.  It is incredibly inspiring to meet men and women just like us (i.e. cool & funny),  who are succeeding in their own businesses right next door.  We are truly looking forward to this Thursday's luncheon where we will learn about the growth of Grandview Yard (the spot where the Big Bear warehouse used to be).   Who knows, it could be the site of columbus imPRessions new office location!  

Move Over Evite We Just Found Pingg

'Tis the season to get invited to parties.  In just the last two weeks I received an Evite to a jewelry party, a Thirty-One party and a birthday party.  I even used Evite myself to send out an Evite for a purse party I had this past weekend.  Sending an Evite is free, fun and easy.  But we just found out about another free online invitation option that offers so much more and we wanted to share.

Introducing Pingg.  Pingg is a free stylish online invite that you can personally create reaching guests via email, SMS, web, print, Twitter and Facebook.  We love the way you can customize your pingg invite uploading your personalized photos, as well as the pingg feature that allows you to display a registry of the charity of your choice so guests can make an on-line donation in lieu of gifts. Guest can RSVP and make a donation at the same time.  

Very cool.  Next time we have a party you bet we will be using Pingg.