Virgil Winston:Marketing Guru
Everybody knows there are a few topics that are verboten during polite discourse—politics, religion and my mother-in-law’s peculiar proclivities. For the last several months, however, politics has been a tough topic to avoid. It’s seems that the newscasters, pundits, bloggers and even my Aunt Mabel can’t seem discuss anything else but the upcoming elections. And why not? This year’s presidential race is historic—no matter who wins, the outcome will be unprecedented. Even with the economic turmoil, campaign mudslinging and general uncertainty, there is no doubt that it is an exciting time. On November 4th, either the first African American President will be elected, or we will have elected a woman to the second highest office in the land…which ever way it turns out, history will be made. And that, I believe, is the point.
As a responsible marketer, I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that the election is the perfect time to show your true blue colors when it comes to marketing your business. Use this as an opportunity to highlight your patriotism (without tipping your partisan hand), by choosing promotional items that say, “I love America,” without offending either side of the political aisle. You can encourage people to vote, while simultaneously reminding them of the great service you provide by gifting loyal customers and potential clients with the Patriot pen; or pack up customer purchases in a red, white and blue Flag Bag. Both have plenty of room for your company logo, so no matter which way the vote swings—you win.
The lesson today is simple, Fourth of July is not the only time to get your stars and stripes on, November 4th is an ideal time of year to purchase patriotic promotional products to productively promote your profession. Also, alliteration is fun…but I digress. Until next time, remember what a pretty good writer once said. “Those who stay away from the election think that one vote will do no good: ‘Tis but one step more to think one vote will do no harm.” –Ralph Waldo Emerson.