Thursday, December 31, 2009


We would like to wish everyone a very healthy and happy new year. May we all reach for continued success in 2010.

Felber & Felber Marketing

Tuesday, December 22, 2009

Happy Holidays From Our Team


Our relationship with you is the foundation of our business. We thank you and wish you and yours a very special and peaceful holiday season.

FELBER & FELBER MARKETING

Friday, December 18, 2009

Entrepreneurship in CLE and beyond. Check out the latest


RSVP – www.ohioventure.org

-

OVA LUNCHEON MEETING ANNOUNCEMENT

The Ohio Venture Association

2020 Vision: Venture Investment Opportunities for the Next Ten Years

Focused on the regional core competency of

Power and Propulsion

Richard Stuebi

Early Stage Partners

&

BP Fellow for Energy and Environmental Advancement - Cleveland Foundation

Friday, January 8, 2010

11:30 Networking/12:00 Lunch Served/1:30 Adjourn

The Union Club - 1211 Euclid Avenue (parking can be accessed from Euclid or E. 12th St.)

Richard Stuebi works with a broad spectrum of public sector and private interests to promote commercial activity in advanced energy in the Cleveland area..

Richard has nearly 20 years of experience as an executive, entrepreneur, and consultant in the energy industry, with most of the past decade focused on advanced energy technologies and business opportunities. He shares his perspectives on energy and environmental matters weekly at www.cleantechblog.com and his own Cleveland Foundation blog. Prior to his current involvements, Richard founded NextWave Energy, a professional firm helping client companies capitalize on new business opportunities involving innovative energy technologies, including strategy and capital formation.

Richard was also senior vice president at Louis Dreyfus, the global commodity-trading firm, and was a management consultant in the energy practice of McKinsey & Co. He earned degrees in economics from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford University.

Member: $25 with reservation/$35 without reservation

Non-member: $45 with reservation/$55 without reservation

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Reservation Form - Luncheon Meeting –1/8/10

Uncancelled reservations will be billed

Name: Company: ______

Guest: Company:

Phone:

Enclosed is $____ (____members @ $25; ____ non-members @ $45)

Make check payable and mail to: Ohio Venture Association

1120 Chester Avenue, Suite 470 - Cleveland OH 44114

Phone 216-566-8884 Fax 216-696-2582 E-mail admin@ohioventure.org

www.ohioventure.org

Tuesday, December 15, 2009

Promotional Products Play Important Role in 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympic Games

We all know the importance of brand management and in sports it is a key factor. From endorsements to sponsorships this is not only a financial gain but the positioning of the brand is crucial for sustained growth. Read this most recent press release:


Irving, Texas (PRWEB) December 7, 2009 -- According to Promotional Products Association International (PPAI), the non-profit, international trade association for the promotional products industry, pins, shirts, hats and other promotional products will be as popular as ever as they are purchased, collected or traded in celebration of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver.

"As a spectator, whether you are viewing the games at home or in person, promotional products are among the first things you notice," said Sherri Lennarson, MAS, PPAI board chair. "Apparel and souvenirs with the iconic rings, host city logos and designs from participating countries help create the sense of team spirit and unity associated with the Olympic Games."

In addition to building excitement, promotional products are a key medium of brand marketing. "Some of the world's leading corporations invest millions of dollars in Olympic sponsorships for the widespread brand exposure and association with such a historic event," said Lennarson. "These Olympic marketing programs typically incorporate a variety of promotional products. For the Winter Games, products will include t-shirts, key chains, buttons and drink ware, among others, all branded with official Olympic or sponsoring company logos."

Many sponsoring companies and official licensees are turning to eco-friendly products to highlight their brands. Suppliers such as Vancouver-based Boardroom Eco Apparel, a PPAI member, provide branded apparel to Olympic apparel licensees like the Hudson Bay Company, which is created under strict eco-friendly guidelines. "Promotional products have an undeniable impact when used during the Olympics, especially when they are eco-friendly" said Mark Trotzuk, president of Boardroom Eco Apparel. "These branded products are a key tool for promoting both leading brands and environmental protection worldwide."

Collecting promotional products from Olympic Games has become a sport in itself. The frenzy over Olympic promotional items began at the first modern Olympics and has grown ever since. "Mascots, pins and stamps have become highly-sought after items, allowing spectators to have ownership of a part of history," said Lennarson. "An Olympic pin from the 1960 Olympic Games can sell for nearly $300 today."

Coca Cola is known to be the longest, continuous corporate partner of the Olympic Games and has helped drive the phenomenon of pin trading. The company creates anticipation with a new pin design for each Olympiad to be worn by residents, spectators, Olympic officials and athletes.

Promotional products don't have to be all about business. Stuffed animal mascots are usually among the most popular Olympic memorabilia purchased and traded among spectators. The 2010 mascots, Miga, Quatchi and Sumi can be found on a variety of products designed to appeal to both kids and adults.

Items that are difficult to acquire are in high demand, such as the Olympic torches used in the around-the-world relays leading up to the opening ceremony. "Worn jerseys are coveted items and serious collectors often attempt to purchase these products directly from athletes," said Lennarson. "From rare souvenirs of Olympics past to collectable items from modern games, Olympic promotional products have a long tradition of being rewarding for both sponsors and spectators, alike."

About PPAI PPAI—the promotional products industry's only international not-for-profit trade association—offers education, tradeshows, business products and services, mentoring, technology and legislative support to its more than 7,500 global members. Promotional products are an $18.1 billion industry and include wearables, writing instruments, calendars, drink ware and many other items, usually imprinted with a company's name, logo or message. PPAI created and maintains the UPIC (Universal Promotional Identification Code), the industry's only free identification system and universal company database.

For more information about Promotional Products Association International (PPAI) or to learn more about the proven power of promotional products (including research and case studies), visit the PPAI website at www.ppai.org or contact PPAI at 972-258-3040 or PR(at)ppai(dot)org.

So what can you do on a local level? Show your support for your favorite event or sport or even better just USA Olympics in general. For promotional product ideas on how to use your brand during this time, contact Bruce Felber at 330.963.3664.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Custom Shatterproof Ornaments


Looking for something that will be remembered year after year?

Shatterproof ornaments can enhance the holiday and is perfect for:


* Holiday Gifts
* Fundraisers
* Bookstores
* Store Decorations
* Keepsakes
* Churches
* Family Reunions
* Employee Gifts

These treasures are available with your custom imprint or blank for that last minute purchase. Call for color availability. We also have hand-blown glass blank or imprinted ornaments.

Why not spread some good-will and say thanks to that special customer.

Monday, November 16, 2009

We attack your SENSES with Promotional Products

Come to your senses. That's right you heard me.

Promotional products fit the bill as no other media can. We promote your brand and product with sounds, smell, taste, touch and fantastic graphics. The perfect media to fit every budget.

Visit us tomorrow at our Corporate Holiday Gift & Promotions Open House. For more information click here.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Hey Man, What’s Your Bag?


Thought this saying has been lost in the 70’s? Well not anymore when you consider the plethora in today’s market. Bags are used in both the business and personal use world and the variety is as wide as your tastes.



There are briefcases, portfolios, computer bags, backpacks, duffels, trade show, golf bags and the list goes on. Bags today reflect personal style and fashion from the very functional to those designed to promote a brand or message.

See some of these on display at the Felber & Felber Marketing's Corporate Holiday Gift & Promotions Open House on Tuesday November 17th from 3-8pm at our Twinsburg office.

Get acquainted with the latest from OGIO, LEEDS, TUMI, Port Authority, MV Sport, Red House and more.

Come visit with us at: Felber & Felber Marketing 1869 E Aurora Rd, STE 400 Twinsburg, Ohio Your business card is your admittance and you must RSVP. Please RSVP here to see the world of corporate gifts and promotions.

Tuesday, November 10, 2009

Corporate Fashion Never Looked So Good


One visit to the Felber & Felber Corporate Holiday Gifts & Promotions Open House will have you turning heads. On Tuesday November 17th we will be featuring the latest in corporate apparel from such leading brands as NIKE, Columbia, Port Authority and RED HOUSE.

Just like the item pictured above the RED HOUSE line offers the best in quality and fashion from woven shirts, Cashmere & leather jackets, bags and more. These designs were all inspired by the California Wine Country for fashion that looks and performs to the highest level. Want to see what the best dressed person is wearing for 2010? One look and you will see why the best brands make the best gifts and promotions.

Come visit with us at: Felber & Felber Marketing 1869 E Aurora Rd, STE 400 Twinsburg, Ohio Your business card is your admittance and you must RSVP. Please RSVP here to see the world of corporate gifts and promotions.

Thursday, November 5, 2009

Networking Your Way to Success


Networking your way to success
Today's post is written as a resource for the Kent State University Entrepreneur Extravaganza where I will be a presenter with Chris Brown of Marketing Resources & Results. To see Chris' post, click here.

Networking is about knowing who is a good prospect. Are you looking for a job, new clients or potential investors? Friends and colleagues who know your target audience can also help with introductions and referrals. Referrals, networking and target marketing go hand in hand. So, first, determine your target audience. Reference this article:
Referrals: You Are Responsible for Painting the Picture - Part One.

What to say. Create and then practice a 10-20 second opening statement to answer the question of what you do (or what you might be looking for as a student). Keep your phrase positive, free of jargon and “outcome-based.”

Working the room. Networking is NOT running around the room handing out as many business cards as you can. Plan ahead of special events and target those you want to meet. Speak to event organizers and obtain the attendee list. Study the list, note centers of influence and arrive early to maximize your networking time. When the meeting is called to order, do not sit with friends or colleagues. Remember, an empty chair next to you reduces your networking time by 50%.

Follow up. How can you set yourself apart and be the one people remember? Write follow up notes. Not an email or a text message, but a hand written note. Mention an interesting fact or comment about something you learned while actually listening to people during networking. Having a business card is key to obtaining their card. It is difficult to send a note if you do not have their card.

Where to network. Just about anywhere, if you are prepared. Have your business cards with you at all times. Know your audience through preparation. Depending on your goals, networking at peer groups may not yield the same results as groups where your colleagues are not present.

Social media sites. We’ve been social beings a long time. Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn are just new tools for the same objective. Balance your profiles personally and professionally and by all means keep them clean. Learn the etiquette of each site and harness the nuances. Reference:
COSE meeting is all atwitter over pros, cons of social media.

Take your networking to the next level and help others network. Reference: The Culture and Ethics of Referral-Based Marketing Programs - Part Two.

I look forward to networking with you in person and around the Internet.

Robert M. Felber, MAS
Phone: 330.963.3664
RobFelber@felberandfelber.com
www.felberandfelber.com

Connect on LinkedInNewsletter: Marketing DimensionsFollow me on Twitter

Tuesday, November 3, 2009

Executive Fine Wood Wine Stoppers

Looking for that special holiday gift that will be cherished for many years? Then you must see this new item that will be on display at our Corporate Holiday Gift & Promotions Open House on November 17, 2009.

These wine stoppers are hand-crafted from the finest woods available in Ash, Cherry or Stained Oak. Stopper is stainless steel with synthetic seals that will not dry out.

These gifts are perfect for corporate recognition, awards, golf outings, speaker gifts and at holiday time. Available with standard sports & school mascot tops or your company logo.


Come visit with us at: Felber & Felber Marketing 1869 E Aurora Rd, STE 400 Twinsburg, Ohio Your business card is your admittance and you must RSVP. Please RSVP here to see the world of corporate gifts and promotions.


Tuesday, October 27, 2009

The Best Business Gifts Available from Leeds and more!


Time to go for the best. Felber & Felber Marketing's Open House and Gift show will be featuring some of the finest gifts available. We will feature selections from LEED's - the premier supplier in the promotional industry. View items such as travel gear, desktop gifts, housewares, coolers, business cases and more. Featured brands are Alicia Klein, Balmain, Case Logic, Cutter & Buck, Dockers and Wenger.

Also view premiums from these fine brands: Coleman, FUJI, MVSport, Tumi, & Sony.

RSVP TODAY!

Felber & Felber Marketing's
Open House featuring Corporate Holiday Gifts & Premiums is on November 17, 2009 from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Come visit with us at: Felber & Felber Marketing 1869 E Aurora Rd, STE 400 Twinsburg, Ohio Your business card is your admittance and you must RSVP. Please RSVP here to see the world of corporate gifts and promotions.

Friday, October 23, 2009

Food Gifts Offer So Much




Are you looking for a gift that can be shared and enjoyed by many people? Year after year companies are trying to find something to give to their clients that will have a great holiday impact and say thank you for your business. Food gifts fill this need perfectly.

Just think you can touch multiple senses that will have your clients 'eating out of your hand' for the entire year and keep your brand alive. The sense of smell, taste, feel and sight will add impact to your gift.

Felber & Felber will be featuring many food gifts at their Open House this November for you to view and taste.

You will see beautiful items in hand-crafted wooden cases with a custom branded logo or message. A variety of nuts, candy and foods (like hams, turkey, sausage) can all be packed to fit your budget and need.

Also if you are looking for the freshest baked cookies and brownies then this is the place. Just think fresh baked cookies that are baked and shipped the same day. They taste just like mom's kitchen and are made without preservatives. One taste and you will be convinced they are best around. Many packaging options includes stock and custom printed tins, boxes and multi-packs.





Felber & Felber Marketing's
Open House featuring Corporate Holiday Gifts & Premiums is on November 17, 2009 from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Come visit with us at: Felber & Felber Marketing 1869 E Aurora Rd, STE 400 Twinsburg, Ohio Your business card is your admittance and you must RSVP. Please RSVP here to see the world of corporate gifts and promotions.

Sunday, October 18, 2009

Corporate Holiday Gifts & Promotions Open House


Felber & Felber Marketing is hosting an Open House featuring Corporate Holiday Gifts & Premiums on November 17, 2009 from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm.

Come visit with us at:

Felber & Felber Marketing
1869 E Aurora Rd, STE 400
Twinsburg, Ohio

See the latest selections from these brands:

  • LEEDS
  • Parker, Waterman, Papermate & Quill
  • Nike, Columbia, Ogio, Port Authority & Red House
  • Starline
  • Coleman
  • FUJI
  • MVSport
  • TUMI
  • Bushnell
  • Sony
  • Maple Ridge Farms

Featuring:

Desktop Gifts, Travel Gifts, Watches, Electronics, Housewares, Pens, Pencils, Markers, Bags, Corporate Wearing Apparel, Outerwear, Key & Luggage Tags, Mugs & Drinkware.

Promotional items for every category and budget.

Your business card is your admittance. RSVP required. To RSVP or for more information click here.

Thursday, October 1, 2009

SURE YOU'RE TWITTERING, BUT DO YOU TWEET CHAT?


I recently participated in a Tweet Chat regarding promotional products. Learn how social media can be combined with other media, visit Felber & Felber's In The News
and click on the October 2009 article.

Monday, August 31, 2009

NETWORKING: ARE YOU PAYING IT FORWARD?


NETWORKING: ARE YOU PAYING IT FORWARD?

Whether you are in business, hoping to get back in or find yourself somewhere in between, you need to network. The rude awaking of a lost job has jolted many people to wake up one morning (or worse yet in the middle of the night) and say “I have to start networking.” The very next realization is they may have come to the game too late. You can help.


Many who know me have heard me profess building your network at all times. In this and all economies, you need contacts. Already have the job or never lost it? I bet you are getting requests to connect with people you only knew casually. Do they want to “have coffee” or “pick your brain?”


This is your time to shine. PAY IT FORWARD. A movie of the same name exists with this plot: A young boy attempts to make the world a better place after his teacher gives him that chance. Kevin Spacey and Helen Hunt, 2000.


While I have not seen the movie (now I guess I should), I am a firm believe in the Wikipedia definition: The expression "pay it forward" is used to describe the concept of asking that a good turn be repaid by having it done to others instead. In contract law, typically there are two parties but there is the concept of third party beneficiaries. Pay it forward merely applies this contract law concept so that third party beneficiary be a stranger to the creditor (or obligee). More specifically, the creditor (obligee) offers the debtor (obligor) the option of "paying" the debt forward by lending it to a third person instead of paying it back to the original creditor. Debt and payments can be monetary or by good deeds. In sociology, this concept is called "generalized reciprocity" or "generalized exchange". A related transaction, which starts with a gift instead of a loan, is alternative giving.


How can you help? Connect with job seekers and be generous with your time. Offer to introduce them to someone in your network. Have them practice their 30 second commercial with you or simply review their resume or portfolio. Informational interviews also allow you to meet great people outside of the formal job search process.


I keep getting asked why I attend these 400-700 person networking events. How can they be good for business? Do I really meet people that are interested in my business or just those lost souls looking for a job?


Do the math. I attend an event and meet 25-50 people, many searching for a position. Waste of time, right? But, it is not a matter of IF the economy will pick up, but WHEN. And, even if just one quarter of these folks get jobs, who do you think they will remember? Will they remember the people who ignored them and refused to network or the kind folks who connected with them on LinkedIn and went out of their way to help?


So, how are you Paying It Forward this week? Reach out to one friend or past colleague. Invite them to a networking event or better yet, bring them as a guest to a business networking event. Forward articles of interest and possible contacts in their field and make sure they know of all the job seeker support events.

You will see benefits; not just immediately, but years from now. Pay It Forward for better contacts in the future. Please let me know how you are helping. Post your comments. And, feel free to send me someone you think I can help.

Rob Felber

Friday, August 28, 2009

LEAD GENERATION SEMINAR (Part 2) SEPTEMBER 9TH

An Interactive Workshop Series for Manufacturers

Session 4: Advertising and Public Relations

BIG GLOSSY BROCHURES

small two-color flyers

Data Sheets

Folders

Do you have have stacks of these things lying around? Well, they cost money so they must be valuable . . . right? Maybe. Then again, maybe not. The important questions are: how can you tell? and, what can you do about it?

Bring your catalogs, brochures, and advertisements and join us:

Wednesday, September 9, 2009
7:30 to 9:30 AM
WIRE-Net
4855 W. 130th Street, Suite 1
Cleveland, OH 44135

Learn different advertising techniques:

display ads in trade publications
industry newsletters
business newspapers or directories
your company newsletters
your website and blog, banner ads
promotional products
Also: What is public relations as it pertains to increased sales, and how does that relate to your current and future customers? How do you get the best return on investment?

Your Coach

This workshop will be facilitated by WIRE-Net member Bruce Felber of Felber & Felber Marketing. Bruce has over 25 years of business to business marketing with a strong focus on manufacturing and industrial distribution. His firm specializes in lead generation programs utilizing direct mail, dimensional direct mail, and public relations programs.

Monday, August 24, 2009

A Client Who Blows Their Own Horn

It is not every day that I write about a client that loves to “blow their own horn.” You might think that must be a conflict for a marketing/PR agency, but in this case that is not true.

Our client actually plays the French horn with Cleveland Brass Works, a brass quintet. I was thrilled to be at a benefit concert last night at the United Methodist Church in Chagrin Falls. This annual concert was a free benefit for the Cleveland Food Bank www.clevelandfoodbank.org and featured jazz, Latin and a few show tunes.

Ok so what is so unusual about this? My client is a full-time general dentist. Marty Layman of Martin W. Layman DDS & Associates operates a large dental practice in Streetsboro, Ohio where he, two other dentists and a full staff attend to the needs of a growing community. Prior to entering the field of dentistry, Marty studied horn performance at the Cleveland Institute of Music. Marty has played in the Ohio Chamber Orchestra, Heights Chamber Orchestra and the Chagrin Studio Orchestra. He can be seen in this video www.youtube.com/watch?v=teXyb8Zwk68 from February of this year.

Marty has been in the practice of dentistry since 1994. Prior to the evolution of Martin W. Layman DDS and Associates in 2009, Dr. Layman had been associated with its predecessor practice since 1995, and was instrumental in the development of the Streetsboro practice in 2005.

Felber & Felber Marketing recently re-branded this practice with new logo design, brochure, profile sheets and a brand new website (www.laymandental.com).

When I asked Marty what does he like better music or dentistry he gave me this answer, “I love music and play whenever I can, but I really love the practice of dentistry and helping out others”.

This is one multi-talented person who will make you smile through music or a visit.

Bruce Felber

Thursday, August 6, 2009

LEAD GENERATION SEMINAR AUGUST 12th

An Interactive Workshop Series for Manufacturers

Fast forward your learning curve by mastering the essentials of business-to-business direct marketing. Sharpen your skills with tips and strategies for increasing response rate and saving your company money. Update your knowledge on how to prevent common and expensive mistakes.

You'll build new skills faster. Immediately improve offers, creative, copy writing, research/testing . . . everything you do.

You'll avoid mistakes. Even if you apply only one technique that helps you prevent a potentially major error and loss, you've paid for the seminar many times over.

The next session:

Wednesday, August 12, 2009
7:30 to 9:30 AM
WIRE-Net

4855 W. 130th Street, Suite 1
Cleveland, OH 44135

Lead Generation

Get answers to important questions it could take you years of costly trial and error to learn on your own.

  • Why don't general advertising techniques work on direct mail?
  • Which offers work best?
  • What does it take to write and recognize successful copy?
  • What questions should we ask when choosing mail and email lists?
  • What response rate can you expect?
  • What advantages are there, if any, to multimedia integration?

There will be a second session on lead generation, being held on Wednesday, September 9, 2009.

Your Coach

These two workshops will be facilitated by WIRE-Net member Bruce Felber of Felber & Felber Marketing. Bruce has over 25 years of business to business marketing with a strong focus on manufacturing and industrial distribution. His firm specializes in lead generation programs utilizing direct mail, dimensional direct mail, and public relations programs.

Seating is limited; register early. Contact Mari-Elen Sammon at 216.588.1440 ext 121.

Friday, July 31, 2009

Marketing Dimensions Newsletter - Summer 2009

The latest edition of Marketing Dimensions, the online newsletter from Felber & Felber Marketing is now online.

From the world of marketing, public relations and beyond, we bring you stories, tips and articles that help you become a more effective business communicator.

Click here to view Summer 2009

Enjoy!

Sunday, July 26, 2009

Rob Felber's Interview with David Crain

David Crain writes a blog on entrepreneurship. I was honored recently when he asked if I would like to be interviewed. Check it out: http://www.davecrainonline.com/10-questions-with-rob-felber.html

- Rob Felber

Thursday, July 23, 2009

License to…..


License to…..


How much do you care about Ohio? Want to secure a vibrant workplace for your children? Improve the environment for business growth? Boost tourism while preserving natural resources?

Today I opened a very thick envelop from the Ohio Department of Development. While I am not a constant cheerleader, I do want to see our state improve. A few short weeks ago I came across the Ohio Ambassador program. I signed up, and then promptly forgot about it.

In today’s package was my very own laminated “License to Share the Ohio Story.” Even the weight of the laminate made me feel special and empowered. Not sure it will get me in the top clubs or invited to the mansion, but the subtleness prompted me to enlist your help.

So, let’s make this entry a place for everything GOOD about Ohio. The company that reads this may relocate here or simply decide to stay; and, they could be your next customer.

OH – IO

Robert Felber
Ohio Ambassador Cardholder

Monday, July 13, 2009

How You Can Use Promotional Items to Build Your Brand and Business


I recently embarked on new phase for me in the social networking environment. I was asked to be part of a TweetChat on promotional marketing. It's okay for those who don't know what I am talking about, don't be embarrassed. TweetChat is a chat room exclusive to the Twitter community where anyone could have a one-to-one or one to many chat on the same topic or interest. This particular chat takes place every Monday at 11:30 am (EDT) and is run by Ivana Taylor at DIY Marketers.

Today’s topic was on promotional marketing of which 7 basic questions were opened to the group along with many more questions. Here is a brief account of today's chat. http://www.diymarketers.com/2009/07/13/tweet-chat-how-can-you-use-promotional-items-build-your-brand-and-your-business/

Overall it was a great experience to share thoughts, ideas and insights on how promotional items can used in your marketing plan.

If you have questions on this or related topics, email me or catch me on Twitter - http://twitter.com/BruceFelber

Bruce

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

Advertising During A Recession Nets Higher Sales Growth


I had the pleasure last week to hear a presentation to the members of the manufacturing community during the annual WIRE-Net meeting where Arthur Anton spoke. He is the president and CEO of Swagelok Company headquartered in Solon, Ohio.

He spoke about the strength in manufacturing and how our country and the world is evolving. He encouraged us all to stay the course and look to be innovative and highly productive and to treat our employees and associates with respect and credit. One of his message points was to not stop marketing as it is the fuel for the engine and if you stop the competition will ride past you on the way up.

The one quote that made the most sense was "You can't cost yourself on the way to profitability." I found this so refreshing that later that day I was speaking to the CFO of PPAI in Texas and received a similar quote, "You can't save yourself to prosperity." Both statements echo what have said in earlier blogs and posts in that we must maintain our market share and position as it will lead to faster and stronger growth.

An interesting report: 600 industrial companies survey during the 1981-82 recession had reported, "That B to B firms that maintained or increased their expenditures during the recession averaged significantly higher sales growth both during and for the following 3 years than those that eliminate or cut. Those that maintained or increased their advertising during this period showed an average sales growth of 275% over the proceeding 5 years VS a 19% increase for those firms that cut." - McGraw-Hill Research Laboratory of Advertising Performance , 1986.

Bruce Felber

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Upcoming Sales & Marketing Coaching Workshops


Our first session in the series has been completed and the schedule has been released for the the next five. Please see information below (Click on to enlarge) and contact me for more information.

Bruce Felber

Thursday, June 18, 2009

How do you media train 9 year olds?


You don't! You let them fly solo on their first prime time interview. My daughter's Elana & Zoe Felber represent Twinsburg, Ohio in Cleveland Magazine's annual "rate the suburbs" issue June 2009.



See the online interview here: http://bit.ly/dKAPk

Tuesday, June 16, 2009

Ohio Venture Association names Venture of the Year 2009

Veteran Northeast Ohio entrepreneur Len Pagon was recognized by the Ohio Venture Association on June 12th, emerging from four strong nominees to win OVA's Venture of the Year award.

At the age of 23, Pagon founded his web-development company in 1989 as New Media. It was later renamed Brulant, and in 2008 merged into New Jersey-based Rosetta, which calls itself the largest independent interactive agency in the U.S. But Pagon proudly noted that about 450 of the company's 680 employees remain in Northeast Ohio. Through all those changes, challenges and turnarounds in 20 years, he joked that he belongs to the "Captain Ahab school of entrepreneurship."

The other nominees included Bargmann Management, purchased recently by Invacare; Expensewire, a travel-expense company sold recently to Rearden Commerce; and NDI Medical, begun with a $220,000 investment and recently sold for more than $40 million to health care giant Medtronic.

Last year's winner was Jim Hummer, founder & CEO of Whole Health Management.

Thursday, June 11, 2009

Sales & Mareketing Seminar Starts

The first presentation of “Sales and Marketing: Your Way Out of the Economic Crisis” sponsored by the WIRE-Net Organization has been completed.

The session started of with an introduction by Mark Pinto, Manager of Manufacturing Sales for WIRE-Net. Mark outlined the six sessions that will be presented over the next six months and introduced the faculty presenters and the WIRE-NET staff. I was introduced by Mark and I set the stage for the sessions by using Felber & Felber’s recently created Manufacturer’s Anxiety Closet. All participants shook their heads to acknowledge what keeps us up at night.

I then handed off the session to Erica Root Cikanek of Strategic Marketing Initiatives, LLC. who spoke about understanding your Value Proposition and Brand Promise. Erica outlined the difference between the company and customer’s viewpoint and how to determine the customer’s pain points. Erica pointed out how important it is to analyze your competitor’s brand promise by reviewing their websites, brochures and product catalogs. This part of the session included examples that illustrated the difference between Company A and Company B and their value proposition/brand promise and why we should perform a Gap Analysis.

Erica turned the second half over to me where I spoke about the Lead Generation tools and techniques needed to communicate your brand.

I presented a quick summary of the following: (These will be expanded on in the upcoming sessions.

DIRECT MARKETING
Client Profile
Mailing List
Vehicle (Postcard, Dimensional, Brochure, Promotional, Trade Show,
e-Blast)
Message/Copy Points - Call to Action
Creative
Production
Delivery Method

ADVERTISING
Display Ads (Trade pubs, industry newsletters, business newspapers & directories)
Your Company Newsletters, Blog & Website
Banner Ads
Promotional Products (crosses all media)

PUBLIC RELATIONS
Press Releases
Lead Story
Industry & Client Publication Avenues
Industry Expert
Current Client Case Study
Wire Services
Special Events

SOCIAL MEDIA
Linked In
Face Book
Twitter
Flickr
You Tube
Ning Sites
Digg, StumbleUpon, Delicious, Reddit
Blogs & RSS Feeds


During the session the presenters and participants engaged in Q&A and feedback. The entire group benefited from sharing situations and solutions.

Overall this presenter was thrilled with the outcome. I look forward to the next 5 sessions and will share comments, reactions and results.



Bruce Felber

Thursday, June 4, 2009

Sales and Marketing: Your Way Out of the Economic Crisis!

I am pleased to announce that all of our efforts over the last three months are ready for presentation. I have been working with the Wire-Net Organization to bring a new series to the manufacturers here in Northeast Ohio. Wire-Net's mission:


WIRE-Net strengthens manufacturing to create healthy communities and fuel economic growth. We provide expertise that is responsive to manufacturing related businesses and their employees. WIRE-Net connects leaders to each other and engages them in their communities.


Please see the details of this nee Sales & Marketing Series:

WIRE-Net is bringing together some of the area's leading experts in the field of sales and marketing to design and deliver a series of workshops geared especially for manufacturers. Our goal is to show you several different concepts and then assist you in applying them to your business to improve sales and profitability. We will help you strengthen relationships with current customers, approach prospective customers in your current market, and target new customers in new markets.

The series will cover six topics:

  1. Laying the Foundation
  2. Three Rules for Growing Your Business
  3. Lead Generation
  4. More Lead Generation
  5. Electronic Marketing
  6. Closing the Deal

Beginning in June we will cover one topic per month. We will hold the same workshop twice each month at different locations around the greater Cleveland area to give everyone an opportunity to acquire the easy-to-use, practical techniques. The first session will be held on Wednesday, June 10, 2009 from 7:30 to 9:30 AM in WIRE-Net's Classroom, 4855 W. 130th Street, Suite 1, Cleveland, OH 44135. The same topic will be presented again on Thursday, June 11, 2009 from 7:30 to 9:30 AM at Warwick Communications, Inc., 2806 Payne Avenue, Cleveland, Ohio 44114. The per-session cost for WIRE-Net members is $20 and $25 for non members. You can save 20% by signing up for the entire series!

For more information, contact Jacki Adams at 216.588.1440 ext. 114. Seating is limited, so register early by calling Anne Schaum at 216.588.1440 ext 101.

WIRE-Net is pleased to be working with Bruce Felber (Creative Director - Felber & Felber Marketing), Damian Petrini, Erica Root Cikanek, Chris Stadler, and Carol A. Staiger on this important venture.


You may also call me at 330-963-3664 for more information.


Bruce Felber

Monday, May 25, 2009

Buy Me Some Peanuts and Cracker Jacks!


Play Ball this summer with a hot new promotional package. The Home Run Gift Box includes a promotional synthetic baseball, a 6" baseball bat pen and a baseball key chain with a box of Cracker Jacks and a bag of David sunflower seeds in a gift box. Your logo/message printed on baseball key chain, baseball bat pen and baseball.

Perfect for company outings, behind the fence parties and promotional direct mail with a sports theme. Special pricing starts under $20.00. For more sports or leisure related themes contact Bruce Felber at brucefelber@felberandfelber.com.

Saturday, May 23, 2009

One Second and a Heart Attack


Ok the Cavs/Magic games are keeping my stress level up and my heart pumping. Is this good? Game one was tough as we shot ourselves in the foot too many times. Game two we adjusted much better and LeBron is the ultimate champion. Nice to see a game winning buzzer beater, but to win the series we need to play our second half with the same focus and energy as the first half. Don't get me wrong I am happy we won, but would like it to be a bit more comfortable. Yes we are now playing with the big boys and we have the stuff to do it right. Just like in marketing you need a game plan, talent and the ability to run the play and make the right adjustments.

What does this teach us? Well never underestimate the competition or the market place. Look ahead, but stay on course. Like the Cavs we all want the win, so teamwork is the key. Hard work and true messaging will prevail.

Bruce Felber

Monday, May 11, 2009

CLEAN SWEEPS ADD TO MARKETING OPPORTUNITIES


The second sweep by the Cleveland Cavaliers in the the playoffs elevate the marketing of two brands. It seems that the stage is being set for the ultimate match between the Cavs and the Lakers and the hype is helping push two brands. Nike and Gatorade are airing commercials pitting LeBron James and Kobe Bryant in head to head high spirited competition to bring brand awareness to their respective companies.

This is all in fun, but with very focused brand positioning and I for one love it. As a Cleveland fan in search for a champion this national attention is great. But remember that Cleveland is more than sports and has a rich manufacturing history with the hardest working people around. Support our local companies as we lift our spirits. Afterall it is "all for one and one for all" in these challenging times. Go Cavs, we are all behind you.

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

CELEBRATE EARTH DAY

Help the earth stay green with this very special earth-friendly promotional. Order before 4-24 and save an additional 10%.




Contact Bruce for more details.

Misspellings Should Never, Ever Happen


Misspellings in today's world is inexcusable. I cringe when I see it in an advertisement or in a newspaper article. Yes, sometimes things happen and you can't help it but really, with so many eyes on everything before its gets printed or produced, it should never happen.

So why this proofreading reminder? When I was watching ESPN yesterday, the story of the Nationals' new uniform caught my attention. Thanks to this blog post, we have a visual of how "Nationals" was misspelled in front of millions of viewers.

From approving the design to physically producing them to the players wearing the uniform... many should have caught the error. So how did this mistake get this far? I'm sure yesterday and today will be spent trying to figure out where the process of proofreading failed.

So what can you do to prevent mistakes like this? Proofread, give it to someone else, sleep on it, then proof again. The more eyes the better. Read copy backwards. Read copy out loud, including punctuation. Look things up if you don't know what something means. Call phone numbers in your ads to make sure you have the right one. Check zip codes. In our days of having everything at your fingertips, there is no excuse. Even text boxes in Mozilla Firefox has a spell check!

~ Michelle Hirsh, Felber & Felber Marketing

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Can your brand survive a crisis with a million YouTube hits


Is your business able to respond to this level of scrutity? Years of positive brand building gone in seconds.


From the New York Times:

Video Prank At Domino’s Taints Brand


Friday, April 10, 2009

April Showers Bring More Than Flowers

April showers will bring May flowers, but they also bring a fantastic promotional marketing opportunity.


The following are just a few items that will help you brand your products and services to your customers and keep your name around for many years. Reach your target audience with a very affordable promotion.


What else can you do this time of year? Consider umbrella’s with your logo. Your clients will appreciate the extra touch.


For more promotional ideas, click here: Promotional Products


And for wearing apparel click here: Promotional Apparel & Accessories

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Advertising is looking up at you!

Ok just when you thought it was safe on the road we have another twist. Read this article:


No Logo: Kentucky Fried Pothole

Kfclogo Kentucky Fried Chicken is diversifying its business model - now moving in to privatized road repair.

Starting in Louisville, KY, KFC is filling city potholes. And then, of course, branding them with KFC logos.

According to the KFC press release:
The KFC Colonel and his professional road repair crew got started in their hometown of Louisville by filling up potholes and re-freshing roads around the city. KFC also issued an open offer to mayors of cities nationwide, asking them to describe their city streets' state of disrepair. Four of these lucky cities, chosen at random, will receive KFC's road re-"fresh"ment, promising citizens a smooth drive that is fit for a Colonel.


This just goes to show you that every cloud has silver lining and that that opportunities are out there.

Bruce

It’s Time for Green and Health to Marry

Here's a great article from our friend, colleauge and resident green expert, Colette Chandler.

For those of you who know me or know what I’m most passionate about it’s the intersection between green and health. I feel this is the missing link, it’s the reason I speak about it regularly and created my newest speaking topic: Creating the green and health marketing balance©
It’s been a popular topic for all of my national speaking engagements including my keynotes. I would expect it will be as popular for international ones as well.

I really think it’s time for the green groups and the health groups to marry each other and combine their households.

Yet, I see few groups, organizations, companies who truly understand this marriage and that it is a match made in heaven. It only makes sense that the green side work with the health side of things. It all balances out in the end. Let me explain...
Everything we do that is moving toward being more environmentally friendly impacts our overall health and wellness. Our environment impacts the air we breathe, what we put into our bodies and so forth. Research has even shown that since 90% of our time is spent in buildings, green buildings could help companies reduce 58 billion in sick time. I heard that great statistic from L. Hunter Lovins.

Yes. I understand we are building more green buildings and many of the builders understand this. Why then aren’t more of the green business groups working with the health groups toward a common goal? Doesn’t it make sense?
I am on a mission to see that this happens. So if you know of a green business group and a health business group, please email me at cchandler@marketing-insider.com. I’m keeping a list of these and will start offering support to both sides to make sure they see what kind of impact this could have.

Helping You Understand and Profit from Consumer Health and Green Trends

Colette Chandler

To see the full HTML article, click here: http://www.keyboard-culture-green-marketing.com/2009/03/its_time_for_green_and_health_to_marry.html#more