‘If you can’t advertise yourself, you can’t advertise anything.’

Fei suggested I watch a documentary on SBS on ‘mad men’, a label used to describe advertising pioneers in the early 90s (edit: came from men who worked on Madison Ave in New York, where all the world’s biggest ad agencies are – Fei)  . The documentary was to be followed by a drama series based on the same era/ context next week. The particular focus was on a gentleman by the name of David Ogilvy. Very interesting insight; had I’ve seen this earlier, I might’ve pursued that marketing major!

The Hathaway Man; Selling a Simple Shirt using an Eye Patch
The Hathaway Man; Selling a Simple Shirt using an Eye Patch
  • Research: Coming, as he did, from a background in research, he never underestimated its importance in advertising. In fact, in 1952, when he opened his own agency, he billed himself as Research Director.
  • Professional discipline: “I prefer the discipline of knowledge to the chaos of ignorance.” He codified knowledge into slide and film presentations he called Magic Lanterns. He also instituted several training programs for young advertising professionals.
  • Creative brilliance: A strong emphasis on the “BIG IDEA.”
  • Results for clients: “In the modern world of business, it is useless to be a creative, original thinker unless you can also sell what you create.”

Extract taken from David Ogilvy’s wikipedia entry.

Entrepreneurship, from all levels, whether it’s advertising, selling, logistics, resources: is a craft.

Kitsune Maison 6 Promo Video

Kitsune Maison 6
Kitsune Maison 6

If going through 1+ hours of music is too much for your hungry ears, try this compressed version: a 5 minute video stint with most of the artists behind this fabulous compilation!

Guy Kawasaki’s “10-20-30” Presentation Rule

3 very insightful yet simple guidelines to a sales presentation. Great way to mould what you  have on offer. It could really be applicable to any presentation you ever make! I’ll let the video do all the talking.

Tropfest 2009

Hmmm...
Hmmm...

Is it exploitative if you use a ridiculously charming yet mentally-disabled person to win a short film festival?

The winner’s video is nowhere to be found except in the coming weekend paper, but this was shown after the final film of the night was shown. Then everyone continued to walk pass the Big Issue vendors and the homeless guys without a second look.