Did anyone watch this episode of Frontline?

[HEFFA]

Outstanding program on the new wave of advertising and marketing techniques that are being employed in political arenas. The second half of the program focuses on the ways in which political areas are "branded" and sold to the voting public. This also raises numerous pertinent issues with respect to the "outcome" of Election 2004. Check it out!

On edit: D'oh, forgot to include the link
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/shows/persuaders/

[Turn CO Blue]

1. I didn't see that show but I've using the word "branding"

all week.

I happen to work for a company that has undergone a complete rebranding campaign (including talking animals in our commercials) this last year.

The importance of branding isn't logo, appearance or even message. It's in creating value through a positive emotional response/connection. Look how Starbuck's made a $0.75 cup of coffee turn out to be "valued" at nearly $5. It's the "experience" and "feeling" that makes that coffee so valuable...and creates brand-loyalty. And we need loyalty, especially of this next generation.

You have certain keywords and images that connotate "an experience" and "loyalty". Eventually the logo becomes interwrapped with the message. Mercedes has a brand. Wal-Mart has a distinct brand. The best branders ever? Nike.

We see people on the blogs this last week writing all about reframing the message of the Dems. That's perfect too, because many Liberals are the types to search for meaning and substance

BUT IF WE WANT TO WIN?

1. Then this party needs to MODERNIZE and understand the POWER of marketing and psychology on people, especially a targeted demographic. The required action is hire to major marketing professionals to represent the party.

2. With all due respect to these career politicians who are throwing their hats in to be head of the DNC - we would be much better off to hire a big, infamous New York Advertising Agency to do a rebranding campaign for the DNC.

Their specialties includes just what the party needs:
*specific STREAMLINED consistent message for the exact targeted demographics
*image, appearance - the cult of personality
*imagery and graphics that ignite goodwill and emotional connection

Let's not turn the focus back to finding a new message -- we Libs are too verbose and long-winded (just reading this blog of mine is a perfect example! <chuckle>)

This is ALL about marketing and psychology -- look at how the Repugs used the psychology of FEAR and BIAS this past week. Man, does it ever work!

[SheWhoMustBeObeyed]

2. The term "branding" always makes me giggle.

It used to be the goods and services that got branded. Now it's us, the consumers, whose hides are marked with the white-hot irons of the brands we buy.

Thanks for the link. I urge anyone interested in reframing the issues and remarketing the party to watch this program.