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What LINCOLN Taught Us About Business (And Life)

Today, February 12th, is Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, which brings me to LINCOLN the movie. I had high expectations due to some of the names involved: Steven Spielberg, Daniel Day-Lewis, Tommy Lee Jones — and the trailer looked intriguing. But WOW, was I blown away.

While reflecting on the movie afterward, I realized that there were some interesting takeaways I could apply to my business, and even my life.

Seize the moment While some shy away from critical decisions and important moments, Abraham Lincoln (portrayed so eloquently by Daniel Day-Lewis) was proud to be a part of history. He knew that abolishing slavery was going to be a moment that changed our country’s future, which only made him want to pass the 13th amendment even more — despite the law’s unpopularity at the time. Lincoln knew the amendment was necessary for the country to reunite, heal and move forward together. Takeaway: Don’t be afraid to make the decision that everything hinges on or step into the spotlight. Live in the moment.

“We’re stepped upon the world’s stage now with the fate of human dignity in our hands. Blood’s been spilled to afford us this moment.”

-Abraham Lincoln

Cast your characters well LINCOLN, the movie, was cast perfectly. I’ve already mentioned Day-Lewis, who should win an Oscar, and Tommy Lee Jones played the powerful Thaddeus Stevens perfectly. Sally Fields was so elegant, yet human, as Mary Todd Lincoln, and the list goes on. Takeaway: Choose the people around you carefully. Hire people for your business who fit into your culture, think for themselves and have the necessary skills, not only the latter. Associate yourself with people who bring you up, not tear you down.

Be yourself in everything you do. One of the reasons I love LINCOLN so much is that the characters are portrayed as human. You see their strengths and their weaknesses, what ultimately drives them and what they’re willing to compromise on. Takeaway: You are unique and bring value to your business, life, social circle, etc. When you’re transparent, people become more comfortable with you. That’s when they buy from you, work with you, spend time with you and develop relationships with you.

Have you seen LINCOLN? What are your thoughts?

What other movie(s) made you think about your life or business?

Will LINCOLN win Best Picture? Daniel Day-Lewis best actor?

Chime in!

Happy birthday, Abe!
Jaime

Image credits: LINCOLN the movie

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My 2013 Bucket List: What’s On Yours?

What’s on your bucket list?

I was thinking about adding another (overdue) 50 Things I’m Grateful For.. post when I came across Lesley Carter’s entry about entering a contest to fulfill a bucket list trip. Lesley’s Bucket List Publications is one of the blogs I follow, because her updates about checking items off her always evolving bucket list inspire me. As she notes, “Some people create a bucket list because they are dying; I created one because I want to live.” That’s exactly how I feel about life.

Without further ado, my 2013 bucket list:

Attend a Kent State University basketball game (my alma mater!)
Go ice skating
Watch a hockey game live
Attend a professional networking event
Go for a twilight hike
Enter a trail running event
Register for my first triathlon

Akron Marathon 2012 "Blue line, blue toes" — Celebrating hitting my goal in my 3rd — and final — half-marathon in Sept 2012

Get together with my family at least monthly
Celebrate special occasions with family & friends
Watch the inauguration festivities for the first time
Bring on 5 new dream clients
Read 100 books! (Yep, full fledged book worm here.)
Write the first chapter of my novel
Make time for me 🙂
Jump out of another airplane!

skydiving crew! — The skydiving crew — Sean, Steven, Yours Truly & Greg (celebrating his bday!)

Go to the theatre
Pay It Forward
Learn a new skill
Take advanced coding classes
Attend a NASCAR race
Spa day 🙂
Finally bring home a furry friend
Travel, travel, travel — across town & across the world

Lounging on the beach in Hilton Head listening to the ocean

Watch the sunrise
Watch the sunset
Step outside of my comfort zone
Watch the fireworks at an Aeros game
Book a spontaneous getaway
Unplug & connect with nature for a day
Laugh often

Laugh often — Having a ball at my brother’s wedding

Create with my hands
Swim in the ocean
Walk on water again –> paddle boarding 🙂
Get up close & personal to the octagon at a UFC event
Be ready for my next great opportunity & pounce on it
Get muddy often

Because it’s February, I’ve already crossed a few of these off my list.

How about you? What’s on your 2013 bucket list? Leave your list in the comments below or hit me up on social media.

Watching the snow fly-
Jaime

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Super Bowl XLVII: Not A Complete Blackout

I planned on writing about marketing lessons to be had from some of the better Super Bowl commercials until I read 5 Marketing Lessons From the Super Bowl’s Most Popular Commercials from the fine folks at Entrepreneur this morning. So that’s been done.

Speaking of the Super Bowl commercials, I felt like they grew more interesting along with the game in the second half, and more specifically, after the blackout. Or I should say during the blackout.

How about Oreo? It almost seemed as if the company knew the blackout was coming. (Hmm, cue up the conspiracy theorists.) More likely, this fun brand was just prepared for the big game instead of sitting back and watching its ad run. Talk about great social media management. And better yet, it’s impromptu ad reminding us all that “You Can Still Dunk In The Dark.” actually made me crave an Oreo. Go figure, an ad that sells!

As of the writing of this post, Oreo’s clever tweet had earned nearly 16,000 retweets and almost 6,000 favorites on Twitter alone not too mention its success on other social media platforms. There’s something to say about being ready to take advantage of an opportunity!

Of course, Budweiser weighed in with another winner. I almost expect this giant in the beer industry to top USA Today’s Ad Meter and satisfy fans annually. The company used its famous Clydesdales for instant brand recognition and included a direct call to action, which many ads did not. People watching the commercial were asked to help name the baby Clydesdale pictured in it by suggesting names with the hashtag #clydesdales on Twitter.

Budweiser just launched its first-ever X/Twitter account on January 27th (after X/Twitter introduced age verification), so the commercial was a great way to attract attention to its new handle. As of February 5th, the new account already has nearly 10,500 followers despite being restricted to fans at least 21 years old.

Last, but certainly not least, let’s not forget about JELL-O! The legendary snack company came on right after the dramatic ending to congratulate San Francisco on being #2. How many companies have thought of that strategy?! JELL-O promised fans in San Fran free product today (Feb 5th), because winners shouldn’t have all the fun.

In addition to free pudding, distraught 49ers fans can install the Baltimore Blocker Google Chrome extension, which replaces the words Baltimore and Ravens anywhere they appear on the Internet with blah blah blah and swaps out pictures of celebrating Ravens fans with cute animals. This strategy has people talking on Twitter, Facebook and watching the pudding drop on the company’s website. “Who’s the big winner now, Baltimore?”

Well, that’s my wrap on Super Bowl XLVII, which despite a dramatic second half and some intriguing commercials, will be remembered for a blackout. While I had no loyalties on either side, I am happy for Dean Pees, current Baltimore defensive coordinator and former Kent State head football coach. Way to represent, Coach Pees!

What’s your take? Did you enjoy the game? The commercials? Or did you switch over and watch Downtown Abbey? (I DVR’d it.)

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below or hit me up on social media. I”m always up for a discussion, especially on football or commercials.

Waiting for pitchers and catchers to report-
Jaime

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The Harbowl: A Marketer’s Dream (Oh, And Those $3.7 Million Ads!)

As marketers, we’re always looking for the story beyond the story. The one that will draw you in, grab your emotions and make you care. Yes, even for mammoth events like the Super Bowl.

In 2013, the game is full of story lines, but the one grabbing everyone’s attention is the sibling rivalry. For the first time, two brothers, John and Jim Harbaugh, will lead their teams in the biggest game of the year. Imagine what their parents, Jack and Jackie, are thinking.

Of course, there are other story lines as well. Ray Lewis’ final game in a remarkable career. The overnight sensation Colin Kaepernick has become. With the game on the line, how confident is anyone in David Akers? Including David Akers?

While the game actually looks exciting this year (not always the case), people around the world will tune in for the ads. As I used to ask my training session attendees, what’s the one day of the year that people watch advertising? Yep, the Super Bowl. In fact, an estimated 44% of women and 31% of men admitted to tuning into the game ‘primarily for the commercials,’ according to a 2012 survey by CouponCabin.com.

And at $3.7 million per 30-second spot (according to the Ad Age Data Center), this year’s advertisers will once again be shelling out. Obviously these companies and brands feel like the ROI (return on investment) they generate makes the high price tag worthwhile. It’s hard to believe that when you actually watch some of the spots though.

It has been interesting to see the increase in social media marketing leading up to, during and after the game. Pepsi made quite a splash in 2010 by only utilizing social media for the big game. I’m not saying that’s the right choice for everyone, but it definitely raised some eyebrows around the industry and helped fuel the discussion about social media marketing as a legitimate option, even for larger companies.

Speaking of Super Bowl advertising, what’s your favorite? Immediately, two ads/advertisers come to mind for me. The first is Budweiser, who does a fantastic job every year delivering attention-grabbing ads that tie into their brand. (No, I’m not a customer; I’m more of a liquor fan.) It’s not just that people are still talking about their ads the days following the big game, but they’re also talking about Budweiser. (That’s not always the case with popular commercials.)

One of my favorite Budweiser spots (of many) is Respect, aired during the ’02 game. It was Budweiser’s tribute to New York City after the terrorist attacks the previous fall.

My other favorite is the iconic Mean Joe Greene commercial for Coca-Cola which aired during the 1980 game. Yes, I’m a Steelers fan, but the spot still resonates with viewers today and instantly brings Coca-Cola to mind. (In a tribute to the ad’s popularity and effectiveness, Downy has actually remade the spot for this year’s game.)

Now I’m passing the ball to you. What’s your favorite Super Bowl commercial or advertiser?

Oh, and one more question… John or Jim?

Advertising enthusiast & football fanatic,
Jaime

Image credit: marsmet481 on Flickr

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Boomers to Millennials: Your Generation Sets Your Communication Style

Are you a Traditionalist? A Millennial? Or somewhere in between? Chances are, your communication habits have been heavily shaped by the experiences and times you’ve grown up with. They’re also probably so ingrained into who you are that you may not even notice them.

I recently attended a networking luncheon featuring a communication skills consultant speaking on inter-generational communication differences. It was enlightening and entertaining while proving that these differences affect nearly everything that we do.

We’re in a unique age: your cubicle neighbor could belong to one of four generations.

Which generation do you belong to? Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Generation X or Millennials (aka Gen Y)? Do you find yourself showing the tendencies subscribed to your generation? (If you’re not sure, check out the chart below.)

The speaker actually put on outfits and changed her point of view to each generation as she discussed them, along with how they interacted. It was eye opening.

How many times have you had a negative experience with someone in a different generation and naturally wrote him off as out of touch, self-centered, etc.?

If we actually take a moment to understand where the other person is coming from and understand her experience, it’s amazing how much better we can all communicate — and get things done.

I actually discovered that I’m technically a Millennial while I’ve always associated myself with Gen X. I’m right on the border, so I’ve probably been influenced by the number of older kids and adults I grew up around, socialize with and have worked beside.

Each generation has its pros and cons, but I do tend to see myself reflecting the attributes linked to Generation X more so than Millennials. Watch the video clip below for a short trip into this fascinating presentation.

How about you? Which generation are you a member of?

Do you see the mindsets referenced above in yourself?

Or are you more aligned with another generation (especially a borderline one)?

I’d love to hear your thoughts on what makes your generation great, inter-generational communication and how we can all just get a long. (Or can we?) 🙂

A Gen Xer at heart,
Jaime

From the Bedroom to the Boardroom: Why You Should Listen to the Introverts in Your Life

I recently finished a book, Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, by Susan Cain. Have you ever read a book that was written for you? Now I have.

I’ve long known that I’m an introvert, and for just as long, thought it was a weakness, something that I needed to work on. Why? I figured out early on in life that those who made the most noise generally got what they wanted.

Our culture made a virtue of living only as extroverts. We discouraged the inner journey, the quest for a center. So we lost our center and have to find it again.
-Anais Nin

The book discusses how introverts struggle to be heard in a country that heavily promotes the Extrovert Ideal, which directly affects how we educate our children, position our workplaces and gauge success. There’s pros and cons to both personality types, so it makes sense to have a mix in your workplace and social circle. Why?

Bill Gates named “The Power of Introverts” as one of his all-time favorite TED Talks.

First, based upon studies, one third to one half of Americans are introverts, whether you realize it or not. “If you’re not an introvert yourself, you are surely raising, managing, married to, or coupled with one,” says Susan Cain. So it’s helpful to understand this personality type to have more harmonious relationships, manage employees more effectively and tap into the positives of an introvert’s personality to apply to your own life.

Second, research has shown that introverts and extroverts can make a great team. In fact, introverted leaders are generally a better match for proactive employees while extroverted leaders are better coupled with more passive workers. Depending on your industry, you can gauge how your workforce leans and what type of managers would be more effective. Remember that you likely have both introverts and extroverts represented, so it’s a good idea to seek feedback from all types of employees.

Buzz is JFK’s Camelot, but it’s also the Kennedy Curse.

-Susan Cain

Interestingly enough, research has shown that effective CEOs, not necessarily the most well known, often have little or no charisma and have little use for it. While charismatic leaders may be effective, their charm may also be hiding the fact they’re not performing.

Face it: where would we be without some of these introverts?

Rosa Parks
Craig Newmark, founder of Craigslist
Albert Einstein
Bill Gates
Theodor Geisel, aka Dr. Seuss

Theodor Geisel aka Dr. Seuss — Theodor Geisel, better known as Dr. Seuss, was an introvert despite his catchy rhymes and delightful writing.

As some of the aforementioned successful people know, you can stretch yourself to fit a certain situation, but only so far. For example, an introverted college professor can handle (and appear quite fluent) at delivering lively, enthusiastic lectures on a subject close to his heart. However, if he spends his entire day lecturing, socializing and networking, he won’t have any down time to recharge his batteries and will eventually burn out.

The secret to life is to put yourself in the right lighting. For some, it’s a Broadway spotlight; for others, a lamplit desk.

-Susan Cain

That’s why it’s so important to figure out what you love and do it as much as possible. You’ll be happy and ideally situated in the comfort of your personality. Yes, sometimes it’s necessary (and exciting) to step out of your comfort zone, but there’s a reason it’s your comfort zone. If you live outside of it, you can burn out quickly and affect those around you.

We all write our life stories as if we were novelists, with beginnings, conflicts, turning points and endings.

-Dan McAdams

Understand who you are, so you can write the best life story for you.

Are you an introvert or an extrovert? Does your life fit your personality or are you constantly stretching to be someone else? I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Image credits: Quiet book cover, Theodor Geisel

An introvert (who’s finally comfortable in her own shoes),
Jaime

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My Life Expressed In Six Words

This post from the TED Blog captured my attention. Can you capture the essence of your life in only 6 words?

As an introvert, people often think I’m not participating in the world. But I am, in my own way. I’m also a nature lover, from my days growing up in a rural area, and a free spirit who loves life. Even as the quiet type, I love sky diving, paddle boarding, tubing, riding roller coasters and other thrill-seeking activities. My bucket list includes going in a shark cage and snorkeling with sharks.

Here are my takes at expressing my life in 6 words:

Introvert, introspective, smiling in the sunshine.
Living in my head, breathing fresh air.
Living out loud, in my way.

It’s a wonderful world, come in.
See the world through my eyes.
Born again, experiencing life first hand.

Free spirit awed by nature’s beauty.
Soaking in sunshine; my movie plays.
Starring in the movie of life.

Starting over, getting it right now.
Thinking, laughing, while the music plays.
Touched by nature, blessed by God.

Hello sunshine, come out and play.
In my head, living out loud.

What’s your favorite one?

Your turn! Express your life in just six words. Comment below or share on a social network…

In my head, living out loud–
Jaime

A Toast, ABSOLUT! Branding At Its Finest

What’s your favorite brand?

Seriously, take a moment to think about a brand that captures your attention with its story, connects with you and seems to invite you to try their product. For me, one of those brands is ABSOLUT VODKA.

One of a kind, millions of expressions…
ABSOLUT UNIQUE

Initially, I was intrigued by their advertising, especially their splashy, sophisticated print ads. They not only caught my eye, but drew me in to the ABSOLUT world. And that’s exactly what the ads conveyed to me: there was a pristine ABSOLUT world where sophisticated people engaged in intelligent discussion over glasses of pure vodka. A clean, organized world with ample white space and where everything had its place.

Sparkle & Spirit…
ABSOLUT TUNE

ABSOLUT had a personality, which breathed through its advertising straight into the product. Sophisticated,
intelligent, unique and fun. ABSOLUT stands out from other brands of vodka because of its stories. Each flavor — and
there are several — has a back story, just like the brand itself. You’re not just drinking ABSOLUT TUNE, you’re
drinking the perfect sparkling cocktail, which has been made for you.

That story is carried from the ads to the packaging to the product — complete cohesiveness. So many times brands miss the mark with their packaging, and along with it, a huge opportunity to promote their stories and establish emotional bonds. ABSOLUT does not. It’s iconic bottle and limited edition packaging is legendary. A few of my favorites…

A creative collaboration…
ABSOLUT WARHOL

In an ABSOLUT world, you’re with the band.
ABSOLUT ROCK

What is your favorite brand?

What initially drew you to this brand? Its advertising? The product itself?

I’d love to hear about your favorite brands in the comments below or hit me up on social media.

Image credits: ABSOLUT

Bottoms up,
Jaime

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How Elvis Can Inspire Your Success

If you didn’t notice, Elvis Presley‘s birthday was Tuesday (January 8th). He would have been 78 if he were still alive today. Man, that’s hard to believe. Despite his untimely death, Elvis achieved considerable fame and status as the King of Rock and Roll. How did he get there? God-given talent, a lot of hard work, a little luck and three other important traits.

Be Yourself — Elvis resonated with so many people because he was true to himself. OK, it helped that he had an amazing singing voice and was considered a sex symbol, but he didn’t try to be someone else. People recognize authenticity (especially today) and are drawn to it. Represent your true self (sexy singing voice or not), and you’re likely to be more successful than trying to be someone you’re not.

To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.
-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Take Risks — Elvis didn’t invent rock and roll, but he became the central figure of a new music revolution being heard by the masses for the first time. Taking risks brings consequences, both positive and negative. While he was loved and idolized by legions of fans, others hated him for his shocking stage presence and delivering the devil’s music to impressionable teenagers. You normally have to take risks in order to taste success so remember that the next time you’re making an important decision.
Embrace Versatility — Beyond the gyrating hips, Elvis became an icon due to his versatility. His silky smooth voice allowed him to become a cross-genre act before that was in, leaving an impression on country music, pop ballads, gospel and the blues. Hey, he isn’t the best selling solo artist in the history of popular music by accident. Throw in his trips to Hollywood, where he starred in movies and recorded soundtracks, and you can start to see a well-rounded individual. Be adventurous; expand your interests — and skills — so that you’re more of an asset.

In summary

Be yourself, take risks and embrace versatility to increase your chances of success today. Clients, co-workers and business partners will be drawn to your genuine nature, appreciate your ability to try new things and take note of your interest in expanding your skills by branching out.

Hey, Elvis did and it worked pretty well for him. Talk about a brand! If you’re looking for help establishing or fine tuning your personal brand or company’s brand, I’d love to talk to you.

Are you a fan of Elvis? As always, I’d love to hear from you in the comments or via social networks.

Rockin’ those Blue Suede Shoes,

Jaime

“Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”

Where’s your go-to place? That place you head to when you need to think, come up with brilliant ideas or just clear your mind. Maybe it’s physical or it could just be a place you’ve carved out in your head. (Belize, anyone?)

Regardless, we all need a place. My place is nature. I grew up in a rural area and will always be a nature lover. Pictured is the Nuthatch Trail at Sand Run Metro Park in West Akron, Ohio, a favorite place of mine—especially in the winter. Some people tend to hibernate when the temps turn frosty, so it’s a great time to find a little solace out on the trails.

In fact, I just went for a rejuvenating 2-hour hike before I wrote this blog post and updated the CCC Facebook page.

If you’ve connected with me via social media, you’ll see my love of nature. Whether it’s hiking trails, sunsets, water or wildflowers, I love to post pics of nature as I experience it.

I’d love to hear about your places and see where you go! Leave a comment below or engage with me via social media. Let me see some pics!

“So be sure when you step, Step with care and great tact. And remember that life’s A Great Balancing Act. And will you succeed? Yes! You will, indeed! (98 and ¾ percent guaranteed) Kid, you’ll move mountains.” –Dr. Seuss, “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!”

Today is your day!
Jaime

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