Thursday, December 20, 2007

Merry Brinkmas!

Differdange, Luxembourg (the gate to my school, which was a Chateau) on a very snowy morning.
Happy Birthday to me + Merry Christmas= Merry Brinkmas everyone!

Wednesday, December 19, 2007

12/19


To emphasize why I believe it's so important to donate to the Humane Society here's a picture of my dog, Oscar (who I will obviously never give up!) Shelters are filled with thousands of homeless dogs as cute and sweet as mine. Help them find a proper home and a loving owner...maybe even you?

Charitable Gifting

I really get into holidays, if you haven’t already noticed, but finding the ‘perfect’ gift is near impossible, especially for those out-of-town friends who make giving fun and bulky gifts impractical.

Instead of bothering with all of the holiday shopping madness, I’ve opted to do something I haven’t done before.

This year, all of my out-of-town friends will receive their annual Christmas card, but instead of a Starbucks gift card, they’ll be receiving a notice that a donation has been made in their name to the Humane Society.

It’s a cause that everyone can agree on, and is of personal relevance to my family, as we are firm believers in, and have had two ‘rescue’ dogs.

So this year, if you’re stuck for a gift idea, go charity and let someone know you’re thinking of them and help others at the same time!

Thursday, December 13, 2007

Gifting, Value Stores & Fish

The Setup:
I'm increasingly finding that white elephant exchanges are the way to go during holiday get togethers. Sure, it's a crapshoot, but it's a good way to kill what would be potentially awkward social time and you may even end up with a chia pet! (which, I'm ashamed to admit, I've always wanted.)

So, I'm thinking of gifting a fish for my exchange.

That is to say, I was, until I went to my local carries everything at a low price hypermarket (that will remain nameless,) and was utterly appalled at the poor condition of the fish tanks.

Aside from the blatant animal cruelty of having neglected and dead fish floating in the tanks, and the consistency of this occurance throughout multiple locals of this particular chain, why, as a company, continue to do this to yourself? The branding, as of the moment I laid eyes on that pathetic pet department, changed from "value" to "cheap crap."

Let's cast aside the fact that it's extremely disturbing to grown-ups and children alike, and look at it from a marketing perspective: it screams, "we care so little for our merhcandise and how it's presented to you that we can't be bothered."

But it's okay, you'll just dangle some absurdly low prices in front of our eyes for some foriegn manufactured, toxic garbage and we'll come running back. Right?

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

Kudos

Kudos to American Joe Apparel, who appeared on the Dallas CBS channel 11 news yesterday!

Watch the clip here: http://cbs11tv.com/seenon/american.girl.dolls.2.607983.html

Monday, December 10, 2007

12/10

Vienden Castle, Luxembourg

Friday, December 7, 2007

Go Fish!

How pitching a client bears a striking resemblance to fishing (minus the relaxation, peace of mind and consumption of alcohol.) As you’ll see Just like the real thing, a little playful tenacity and patience will pay off in the end.

The setup with applicable translation in italics:

It’s a great day. You awake at dawn’s first light and stake your favorite spot by the lake (wake up, fight traffic and arrive at the office.) As you settle in with your beverage of choice (morning coffee,) you bait your hook in preparation for the day’s activity (prepare your leads and story ideas.) You’re in it for the long haul. Waiting, waiting, waiting (calling, emailing, faxing,) the day passes. Suddenly, a tug! (interest!)

There’s some grappling involved with trying to reel a fish in, and sometimes all that work doesn’t yield any results. Sometimes you just have to try a different worm.

Thursday, December 6, 2007

12/6

Let it snow! A picture from our first snow of the season!

Wednesday, December 5, 2007

12/5

An incriminating photo of me in France with Jessica when I was 11.

A Little Holiday Cheer

I’m already starting to feel the pressure to finish my holiday shopping, and our house isn’t even fully decorated yet (it’s a multi-weekend project in our household!) But in light of the season and the omnipresent spirit of giving, I thought I’d share a little holiday cheer that I’ll be sending far, far away.

When I was 11, I took part in an exchange program (fueling my travel lust at a young age,) and lived for a month with a family in France. Since then, they have become part of my extended family, and welcomed me back with open arms during my most recent stint abroad.

Each year we take turns sending packages to one another of signature products that we can only get in our respective countries, and this year, nothing seems more appropriate than sending the family 100% American-made American Joe Apparel T-shirts.

It’s a classic American style, and is about as home-grown as it gets. So unique in that they’ll be the only ones in France with AJ classic t’s, and personal in the fact that American Joe Apparel is a client I’m happy to work with.

Monday, December 3, 2007

12/3

The world's largest ball of twine; Cawker City, Kansas.
Oh yes, been there.

Friday, November 30, 2007

11/30


The Grund, Luxembourg City

Intangibles

The one thing above all others that most people don’t understand about PR is that it involves so many intangibles.

Ideas don’t grow on trees (although we’re working on that,) and creative development takes a little TLC. Likewise, putting ideas in motion won’t happen overnight either. Creative and media relations take time which is why it’s important to choose an agency you trust to be doing this work for you.

If we could work in our sleep, our days would be much more leisurely.
If only…

Thursday, November 29, 2007

11/29


Garden of the Gods

Wednesday, November 28, 2007

11/28

The Monte Carlo- Monaco, France

Monday, November 26, 2007

Happy Cyber Monday!

A day I never even knew existed until this year- but aptly titled.

As we settle back into our routines from a weekend of overindulgence, (for those of you who weren’t visited by the flu virus, like I was) it’s time to ease into the holiday season and all that it entails.

With the second wave of holiday shopping in full swing, I find myself worrying if my presents will arrive in time to be found underneath the tree.

Last year left a sour taste in my mouth after a dress that I had ordered 3 weeks in advance didn’t arrive until the day of the holiday party I was slated to attend. Frustrating to say the least, and not a shining endorsement for the e-commerce industry.

This year, it seems, retailers are more prepared for the wave- offering priority shipping, increased discounts, and even wrapping options.

Thank goodness! I hope that this year retailers have addressed any possible shipping snafus and everyone can celebrate without a hitch!

It may be a merry season with those who provide priority shipping upgrades and guaranteed arrival times!

Wednesday, November 21, 2007

11/21

Happy Thanksgiving! Prost!

Tuesday, November 20, 2007

11/20

Rome, Italy

Monday, November 19, 2007

11/19

Changing of the palace guards, Stockholm, Sweden + TON of snow

Proactivity

It’s all about looking ahead. A well played game of chess.

Aside from doing your due diligence, making the sales calls, keeping an eye on your competitors and constantly reading up on your industry, there is, of course, thinking ahead (and I won’t even mention actually running your company because I assume that’s a given.)

Okay, it’s a lot of work- but isn’t that why you were smart and hired an agency do to what they do best? You can thank us later (the holidays are fast approaching!)

Think about how you currently are or will be outplaying your competition in the next few months. What are the current strategies you have in place and what’s going on that you can capitalize on?

Don’t be left behind!

Friday, November 16, 2007

How Firm Thy Friendship...


O-HI-O

Great weekend for college football- my favorite all year. (and then, I promise, my fanaticism will subside for a while.)

Thursday, November 15, 2007

Mirror Lake, Anyone?

I don't typically post pictures of myself, but tonight is a very important exception:


Mirror Lake, for those who don't know, is just an ordinary man-made pond on Ohio State's campus. The Thursday prior to the big game every dedicated OSU student jumps in the lake. This guy (center) ran up to us, as we were about to pose for a picture, and hopped in our photo. Ta Da! Silly Faces!

Wednesday, November 14, 2007

11/14


Rushing the field after our victory over Michigan last year (yes, I eventaully made it down to the field!)

A Lot Like Love

And no, despite the fact that this might be the most important football weekend of my entire year, I’m not talking about my Buckeyes.

Business, sales and especially PR are all about courtship.

Think about it- there are companies out there that would make wonderful clients, and some that only look like they would be good to work with. On the flip side, the same is true with agencies and vendors.

Either way you look at it, at any given time one is searching for the other in a process that can range from morose to magic (just like dating… which I will save for an entirely different entry.)

It’s when you achieve the right combination of flirtation, finesse and fanaticism, you know you can do anything.

Speaking of fanaticism…let’s go Bucks!!!

Tuesday, November 13, 2007

11/13

Market in Budapest, Hungary

Monday, November 12, 2007

11/12

Luxembourg City

Thursday, November 8, 2007

11/08

A friendly polar bear at the Cleveland Metroparks Zoo :)
(I used to work for the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium- I have a thing for Zoos!)

Risqué?

I had a meeting with my esteemed colleagues at American Joe Apparel this afternoon, and am still plagued by a need for definition (albeit, that’s a running theme in my life.)

When it comes to the fashion industry- how risqué is too risqué? When do things cross the line from vogue to vulgar?

Does it simply come down to a matter of branding? Certain companies are forever expected to exude ‘sex’ while others are otherwise forbidden?

It seems to me that unless you’re in the industry of sex, it’s a fleeting gimmick. Good for momentary publicity, but difficult to sustain in the long run. Generally speaking, those people taking particular interest in this slant aren’t likely to be your lifelong customers (i.e. I’m going to buy your product because your models are gorgeous…but what do you sell again?)

Then again, why can’t you throw in a flirty picture once and awhile if it doesn’t compromise your branding?

I suppose it all comes down to personal tastes, and that, dear friends, we may never agree upon.

Tuesday, November 6, 2007

11/6

Statue in Krakow, Poland

Responsiveness

Probably the biggest reason why agencies loose clients is due to a lack of response- and understandably so.

Why give you my money/time if I’m not feeling adequately taken care of?

So while EMG may not have every answer at our fingertips- we can at least pledge that we’ll at least let you know what measures we’re taking to reach success.

When you’re dealing with a thing as intangible as PR you have to make especially certain that your clients know this, too.

On the flip side, it’s also the client’s duty to be just as responsive to the agency’s needs. You may need something as soon as possible, but there’s a good chance we can’t do it without your help/expertise/graphics/etc.

If you’re going to hire an agency to begin with, it’s always best to come to the table prepared to allow these folks to work with you. It’s a commitment on both parties’ behalves and all involved want it to be done right.

Make it easier by maintaining a quick response time. And always keep in mind that word spreads faster than wildfire.

Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Happy Halloween!


Thought I'd share my dog, Oscar and his costume: Dogula!

Monday, October 29, 2007

10/29


Battle of the Bulge Monument, Bastogne, Belgium
The day I visited, I was told that conditions (gray, uber foggy and freezing) were the exact same as those during the infamous battle. It was truly moving.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

10/25

Paris, Je t'aime...
One of my favorite cities in the world (and home to my second family!)

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

10/24

Grand Canyon National Park at sunrise

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

10/23


In the Alps- Interlaken, Switzerland

What are You Doing for Yourself?

A critical, yet an increasingly (I would even go so far as to use the word disturbingly here) overlooked part of business ventures is the sales force.

Chances are if you own a business, you already eat, sleep and breathe your product or service- but your conversations with the cashier at Jo-Mart aren’t necessarily getting the exposure you need.

So you hire a PR firm. But…great exposure doesn’t necessarily equate to great sales.
Behind every successful PR push is an equally successful sales team.
We help with the assist, you make the slam-dunk.

Trust me, when it’s done right, it’ll sound something like, “You know, I’ve been hearing about this everywhere…yeah, we’re in.”

Monday, October 22, 2007

POTD 10/22

Gateway to the West

Friday, October 19, 2007

POTD 10/19

To set the mood for the blog entry below...
Liquid bar in Luxembourg- My favorite bar on the planet, home to the best jazz night I've ever been to :) Happy Friday!

Pitching

It’s your first date with someone at a charming, intimate little restaurant (Bombay City, maybe?) and things are going pretty well. You may even see yourself going on another date with this person. After dessert your date leans towards you, looks you deep in the eyes and delicately whispers, “I’ve been waiting for you all my life.”

...For most people (unless, of course, you happen to snag a date with Brad Pitt,) this would be a little awkward.

You can’t just skip from first date to forever, and chances are there is some persistent tenacity in order to just get that first date.

Getting your story (however good it may be) in the New York Times, is a similar situation. Yes, the folks at EMG are downright awesome PR people, but even when we call up our media friends, they don’t turn around and say “by god, I’ve been waiting all day for this story!”

It takes some time, some finesse, and some tenacity…basically, a lot of courting. It’ll pay off, but reporters aren’t sitting around waiting for stories to come to them, just as we aren’t waiting for the media to come to us.

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

POTD 10/16 & 17


Venice, Italy

Monday, October 15, 2007

POTD 10/15

Strasbourg, France

Accountability

A critical, yet often overlooked aspect of business interaction. Sure, you know you’re accountable for yourself, but it’s not until you’re under the gun that you’re really pressured to show just how accountable you really are.

It’s unfortunate for those looking for vendors or contractors that there isn’t some kind of ‘accountability meter’ that comes along with each person or company- word of mouth is only so good, and never consistent.

Accountability is not always easy, it’s not always fun and hardly ever recognized, but in the end it’s worth showing people that you can grit your teeth and get the job done, no matter what.

And that, dear friends, is what potential clients should look for in an agency.

Friday, October 12, 2007

POTD 10/12

Dresden, Germany
This city was firebombed in WWII -all of the buildings and statues that still stand are charred.

Thursday, October 11, 2007

POTD 10/11


The Road Ahead...
Outside of Colorado Springs, Colorado

Wednesday, October 10, 2007

POTD 10/10

gnothi seauton (know thyself- see entry below) was inscribed in the pronaos (forecourt) of the Temple of Apollo at Delphi. While I can’t say I’ve had the pleasure of visiting that particular place, here’s a picture I took of the Parthenon in Athens, Greece.

Know Thyself

Everyday I learn a little more about the right and wrong ways to go about running a business.

Given, it’s not even possible to get into any field knowing everything- and thankfully, there are specialty people (like the uber talented folks at EMG, for example) to help with the things you may not know about.

In the end, it really boils down to how armed you are for the brutal practice of brand warfare. How well do you know your industry? Your brand pillars? Your competitors?

I was once told, “You don’t necessarily have to come up with a revolutionary new idea- you just have to make sure that with whatever you do, it’s better than your competition.”

Better. And two steps ahead.

Tuesday, October 9, 2007

POTD 10/9

Munich, Germany
They had a 'decorate the lions' contest, much the same as Cincinnati's similar competition between local businesses decorating flying pigs! This one I thought was particularly funny.

New Biz

Very exciting news...

We are about to welcome two exciting new businesses to the EMG family. Details to come soon-- can't wait to roll out the red carpet for our new friends!

Monday, October 8, 2007

POTD 10/8


Vienden Castle, Luxembourg
Happy Monday everyone!

Friday, October 5, 2007

POTD 10/5


Cactus garden. City of Eze, France (between Nice and Monaco)

Thursday, October 4, 2007

POTD (Photo of the day) 10/4


Under the St. Charles bridge. Prague, Czech Republic

Networking 101

Everything I needed to know for the workforce I didn't learn in college. In fact, all that bologna went out the window my first day on the job. The one thing I wish I'd known more about: networking.

Suddenly, adamant discussions about your favorite bar aren't appropriate, and you're left wondering, "what's left to talk about?" Lots.

Networking 101: Conversation.
Prove yourself to be a credible, distinctive Public Relations professional so that you can be sure a new acquaintance isn't going to walk away with a mental note to avoid you at future functions.

It's a whole 'nother' ballgame.

Wednesday, October 3, 2007

Photo of the Day!


I decided for my own sanity and the greater good of everyone, that I'll include a fun little feature to my blog: photo of the day. It'll be a great opportunity for me to share my travels and experiences, and hopefully bring a smile to your face as well. ENJOY!
Cinque Terre, Italy at sunset. (Yes, I set this shot up AND am in it!) Let me tell you- those rocks were a pain to climb!

Building Your Own Brand

Staying true to yourself & Building your own brand.

I’m going to equate ‘identity branding’ to a life experience we can all relate to: the job search.
Something we’ve all been through before: That job- an okay job, one that you are perfectly qualified for but just…isn’t you. You might not even make the discovery until the interview in which things just don’t jive.

It’s certainly a discouraging feeling and leaves anyone in this situation at a crossroad- take the job (for money, title, location, etc.) and compromise your un-corporate eccentricities, or chalk it up to ‘artistic differences’ and leave?

The core, the essence of successful marketing, is consciously maintaining that brand focus. Likewise, the key to happy relationships (from personal to professional) is to maintain that very pillar- that je ne sais crois which only you possess.

Build YOUR brand- The only brand that’s going to be with you forever. And be memorable about it.

Fortunately for me and all my quirks, EMG is the best creative environment I could ever ask for!

Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Breast Cancer Awareness Month!

October 1 marks the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness month, and the first time I will be wearing a pink ribbon every day for this cause. Not because I previously didn't care , but I really wasn't aware of how devistating this illness can be until it hit close to home.

Thankfully now, with this new perspective, I can go into this month helping to honor all who have or are suffering.

Check out what American Joe Apparel is doing (and my latest release):


American Joe Apparel Celebrates Breast Cancer Awareness Month
Dallas based Apparel Company Announces Think Pink Campaign, New T-shirt Offering

Dallas, TX – September 25, 2007 – In celebration of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, 100 percent certified authentic American made apparel line American Joe has launched its 'Think Pink' campaign. American Joe Apparel will unveil its new ‘Pink Ribbon Ts' in honor of this initiative, and the online apparel company will make a donation to breast cancer research based on each ‘Think Pink’ unit sold throughout the month of October. The founder of American Joe, Nan Moon, is herself a breast cancer survivor.

The newly designed ‘breast cancer awareness’ version of the logo that will be available for purchase on www.americanjoeapparel.com will have a pink ribbon beneath the company's signature star. T-shirts will go on sale October 1.

"We are excited to be emblazoning our Classic American Made Ts with the strength and meaning of the pink ribbon, and in honor of strong women, survivors, and their families everywhere,” Moon said. “We wanted to show our support for those who have survived, are currently suffering, or have lost their lives to this devastating disease. The courage faced by those with breast cancer is altogether humbling, and we’re proud to do our part.”

Nan Moon is a five year survivor of breast cancer. She hopes this campaign will help provide funds for education regarding treatment options and also funds for continuing research to find a cure.

About American Joe

The American Joe brand of apparel provides 100 percent authentic American made, manufactured and processed clothing for men, women and children and is based on the value that buying American means something - quality, spirit, and authentic style. The company, headquartered in Texas and founded by two 'all American moms', say there is an American Joe in all of us. Guts. Courage. Pride. More information can be found at www.americanjoeapparel.com

Media Contact: Allison Brinkman, Eisen Management Group
http://mail.americanjoeapparel.com/cgi-bin/compose.exe?id=0170a9f628eab2779b31ab731df1bbe1791&new=&xsl=compose.xsl&to=Allison@eisenmanagementgroup.com
859.586.4302

Editor’s Note: Sample Product Available

Download Logo at: www.americanjoeapparel.com/pinkribbon.html

Monday, September 24, 2007

You can take it from me...

I've never suffered from a cold sore, and I pray everyday that I won't know the feeling- but I know plenty of people who have and it doesn't look like a pleasant experience.
Dr.Korner's KoolLips is a naturally derived treatment for cold sores that I've heard is downright awesome.

From the marketing POV- its new look will blow you away!
Even if you aren't a sufferer- lookout for this packaging. Good stuff.

The website will be up and running soon- visit now, compare with the new one when it's up, and let me know what you think!!! You won't be disappointed.
www.coldsorecorner.com

Monday, September 17, 2007

Famous Allison's First Day (belated entry)

(Belated story- but funny!)


Ladies and Gentlemen,

I'm very pleased to announce my retirement. After my very first day of employment with EMG, I received a letter from the AARP informing me that I was eligible for membership!

The timing couldn't have been more perfect- My very first day of my very first "real" job out of college and I receive an invitation to join a retirement organization.

I think I may join and become the youngest person to ever retire after their first day of employment.

Oh, the beautiful random irony of life!

Wednesday, September 12, 2007

Famous Allison's First Release!

Check it out!
Today I sent out my first press release for EMG. I'd tell you more of what it's about, but since I took the time to paste it below, I thought you might want to see my handiwork for yourself (with a dash of Rodger magic too, of course).....

NEW RELEASE: Fashion & Apparel: Apparel Company Honors Returning Troops, Announces New Charitable Initiative

American Joe Apparel Gives Troops a Hero's Welcome
Dallas based Apparel Company Announces Ts for Troops Campaign, New T-shirt Offering

Dallas, TX – September 12, 2007 – To honor returning American servicemen and servicewomen and in recognition of military heroes everywhere, branded 100 percent certified American made apparel line American Joe has launched its 'Ts for troops' campaign. American Joe Apparel, a brand of 100 percent American made, manufactured and processed clothing will also unveil its new 'Yellow Ribbon Ts' in honor of this initiative. The company continues to seek individual and corporate sponsors to help continue the program. Sponsorship details are available at www.americanjoeapparel.com/spirit.asp.

Those returning from military service are greeted by American Joe volunteers at the Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport with a hearty welcome and a certified authentic American Joe Classic T. Dedicated to the American hero, American Joe Apparel founded this program as a part of its 'For the Hero in All of Us' initiative. The newly designed ‘support our troops’ version of the logo that is now available for purchase on www.americanjoeapparel.com will have a yellow ribbon beneath the company's signature star. The logo is available for download at www.eisenmanagementgroup.com/yellowribbon.html.

"American Joe gives me just another reason to fight harder and try to come home safe," T-shirt recipient U.S. Army PFC Jordan Smith said. "I firmly believe actions speak louder than words. We thank you, from the bottom of our hearts."

"We are proud to give such a token of our appreciation to the men and women who have risked their lives for our country," American Joe founder Nan Moon said. "Guts, courage and pride are what American Joe is all about, and we're honored to be one of the first ones to welcome them home. It is a humbling experience for all of us, and a small way that we can say 'welcome home, and thank you' to real American heroes."

Moon added that if anyone would like to add a message to the returning servicemen and women, American Joe will attach a personalized message, free of charge, to the sponsored shirts.

About American Joe

The American Joe brand of apparel provides 100 percent authentic American made, manufactured and processed clothing for men, women and children and is based on the value that buying American means something - quality, spirit, and authentic style. The company, headquartered in Texas and founded by two 'all American moms', say there is an American Joe in all of us. Guts. Courage. Pride. More information can be found at www.americanjoeapparel.com

Media Contact: Allison Brinkman, Eisen Management Group
Allison@eisenmanagementgroup.com
859.586.4302

Editor’s Note: Sample Product Available

Intro.

Inside the mind of Alli- Welcome!

True accounts of the fastest moving, most unconventional account coordinator Cincinnati has ever seen!

Watch the former Buckeye in action here as she runs in circles daily for her clients (and your esteemed entertainment,) writes her heart out, and does about everything humanly possibly to learn how to be the best in her field.

No, it won't all be in third person- but if I can't afford to pay people to create commercials for me, I'll just have to do it myself! (Don't worry, I'm working on it.)

A little self-promotion never hurt anyone...
Glad you're along for the ride!