Becoming Irish!

The best part of St. Patty's Day is that everyone claims to be a little Irish that day. Even if there isn't a trace of Irish heritage in your past, you become an honorary Irish every March. The excitement of joining a large crowd of people with open arms is not only inviting, but a little awe inspiring. It's great knowing that no matter who you are, you'll be welcomed into the celebrations around you.
This is what makes a holiday so amazing and so much fun to celebrate!  And this is what businesses should aspire to do when they use holidays to promote products and services - include everyone!
Remember that holidays can be exclusive at times - whether it is Valentine's Day for all the couples, Christmas for Christians, Mother's Day for Moms, etc. 
Holidays appeal to certain groups of people, so when you are using your business to promote, remember to include as many people as possible for optimum results.

Blarney!

It is estimated that almost half of the US population will be Irish this week and it’s estimated that they will spend about $4.14 Billion celebrating their “Irish” heritage.  While many people celebrate this holiday with Shamrock Shakes, Guinness, green beer, corn beef and cabbage, and silly green clothing, there are still marketing possibilities for any business! 

How can your business benefit from St. Patrick’s Day celebrations? 

•Advertising specials for people wearing green

•Promotional items that celebrate the holiday

•Offer a complimentary meal like corn beef and cabbage to your customers

•Pictures with a leprechaun, just don’t forget the pot of gold!

Most importantly have fun with your advertising this week, it’s a day of celebrating Irish heritage and green is a great way to remind us Spring starts in a week.  

It's All About The Brand

Brand awareness is how many of your target consumers know your brand.  

Note the words TARGET CONSUMER.

Is it important that people on city sewage know the brand name of septic tank cleaners? Or for 85 year old ladies to know the name of the most popular Death Metal Rock Band?

No.

Instead of worrying about making sure your brand is known by everyone make sure the people who are likely to use your business know it exists. 

Why is Brand Awareness important in judging your advertising?  Did you buy a car today? How about lunch at your local restaurant?  Get a six pack of beer?  How about renting a movie?  Purchase a book?   Maybe you did some of those things, maybe not.  But if you were going to do all those things where would you go and what would you get.  Chances are you have answers to those questions and you will mention BRANDS you will purchasing.  Why? Because these companies have carefully branded their products to you over a period of time. This is why they are the first places we think of when we think of certain products or services.

It is hard not to judge our businesses and advertising dollars on a day-to-day basis when we have limited resources, it is important to remember building a business through advertising takes time.  Persevere and you will find success.