Apology
I’ve been busy, but that’s no excuse for not posting in the last month. I preach consistency with our clients, yet it’s sometimes tough to walk the walk. But, I’m back and hopefully will be posting (much) more frequently.
Crispin’s King: Creepy Dude or Genius Ad?
Crispin + Porter is one of those red-hot agencies that can’t seem to get it wrong. They burst on the national ad scene about 5 years ago and have gotten quite a bit of attention with their Burger King ads.
Have you seen them? Here’s a short synopsis of latest one: Woman is sleeping, shaving cream sprayed on her hand, The King tickles her nose, she slaps her face with the shaving cream, and freaks out about the huge, creep creature standing over her pointing and laughing, who was previously watching her sleep. The ad features the late-night menu.
To be completely frank, it kind of creeps me out too. I know, I know…they were going for funny, clutter-cutting humor, which would appeal to a 18-32 predominantly male target audience that want party, stay out late, and after imbibing a few adult beverages, need a little late-night sustenance. Still, can a creepy King really want to make you keep driving by Taco Bell and hit the “other” burger joint? What say you?
Entrepreneur’s Meet-Up
Recently a few local entrepreneurs called a get-together. I got the email, which was forwarded around and welcomed all those who wanted to hang out. It was a refreshing, no-pressure get-together. People were just relaxed and enjoying meeting new friends.
As a result, I realized a few things. A) I don’t know a lot of people. Columbia is deceptive in that sometimes I believe I know about almost everything that’s going on. That’s just flat out wrong. There are so many people, with great ideas, doing amazing things. It’s encouraging and exciting. B) It’s refreshing to not be sold. I feel like so many events in Columbia revolve around hard “networking.” People meander through a crowd armed with a stack of business cards and determined to make a sale. There’s definitely a place for it, but it doesn’t need to be the common mode of operation. C) There’s a ton of talent in Columbia. Whether it is search engine marketing or medical device design, there’s people with skills that rival the best nationally. That level of talent raises everyone’s game for everyone’s benefit.
Tags: Burger King, Crispin PorterCategories: Business.
Brent,
I agree with your assessment of the Burger King commercials. I guess I don’t fit their target audience because I have been unimpressed by the whole “Silent King” concept and hated the previous concept of the “Subservient Chicken”.
It seems as if many “fast food” chains are trying to cut through the clutter by using weird ideas which they believe are funny, but strike me as sophomoric and irksome. Sonic’s “Two dudes in the front car seat having ludicrous discussions” immediately comes to mind. Oh well, I try not to eat that stuff, so they really aren’t losing my business.