Tuesday, May 25, 2010

The Grammar Vandal

What if the spell check option on your phone or computer stopped working today? Like me you would probably go into panic mode, followed by a frantic search for your dusty dictionary. The truth is we are a country that can not spell!  I admit, when I receive emails from individuals interested in doing business and they are laced with spelling deficiencies, I have the urge to correct them before sending a reply and on occasion I have done just that.  Does it change my perception of that individual and their ability to get the job done and produce top results?  It most certainly does.  Taking that extra few moments to read through a letter or email before sending can mean all the difference in your bottom line and reputation.  

Here are a few tips that may help you avoid a visit from the Grammar Vandal: Create your message and send it to yourself, take your time in composing the message, and request a review from an outside (reputable) source.  One other tip that's crucial is increase the amount of books you read, this too will boost your intellect and vocabulary.  Following these few simple tasks will have you back on the path to good spelling in no time and don't be ashamed to get out those old flash cards.  Here's a little humor from Brian Regan to get you laughing your way back to success.  (I hope there are no grammatical errors in dis...couldn't help myself).


                           



Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC is a full-service special event management and media relations firm backed by 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations.  Our track record includes a hand in planning the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. We have also provided event consultation for Governor Martin O'Malley's Office of Minority Affairs.  Our boutique firm is woman owned.


Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Why Constant Contact Sucks!

No question that email marketing is a strategy that many deem an effective way to "get the word out" about the product, event or services they are promoting.  The market has become saturated with companies that say they offer such services but none more visible than Constant Contact.  In fact they have become the "Old Navy" of marketing strategies.  On a daily basis I sometimes receive up to 10 messages from organizations and individuals who are all using Constant Contact.  I won't say how many I actually open but I will say it's typically less than 10%.  

So why does Constant Contact suck if so many people are using it you say? Exactly that...everyone's using it!  They have become the "biker shorts" of marketing, once everyone starts using em' the cool factor has worn off and it's on to something new.  Not to mention their sightly logo dawns itself at the bottom of your well crafted email.  In fact you are paying them to market their company...they should be paying you!  Save your money and personalize your marketing campaign and your return will increase...guaranteed.  Here is a video with a few helpful tips for the savvy marketer.


                                               


Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC is a full-service special event management and media relations firm backed by 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations.  Our track record includes a hand in planning the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. We have also provided event consultation for Governor Martin O'Malley's Office of Minority Affairs.  Our boutique firm is woman owned.


Thursday, May 6, 2010

The Tipsy Planner

Dealing with intoxicated or tipsy guests as an event planner is (depending on the event) included in the job description. Putting safety above all else is key, along with ensuring that their behavior does not detract from your other guests.  Now a tipsy event planner is another story! Without question this is an absolute no no. Clients want to know that they will receive service that exceed their expectations from a professional that will effectively represent their brand. Downing a shot or two of vodka with other guests is not only tacky but is not why the client paid you top dollar.  This is a sure way to gain a reputation as the "tipsy planner" you don't want to hire.  

Not only does it quell repeat business but may also hamper any referrals for future opportunities that you may have received.  Really, is it worth the possible negative repercussions?  Definitely not!  Happy [sober] planning.


Kennedy Consulting Group, LLC is a full-service special event management and media relations firm backed by 15 years of experience providing quality services for major corporations, non-profits and religious organizations.  Our track record includes a hand in planning the U.S. Dream Academy Gala, which raised over $1.9 Million by receiving match funds from Ms. Oprah Winfrey. We have also provided event consultation for Governor Martin O'Malley's Office of Minority Affairs.  Our boutique firm is woman owned.