Contemplating a Cereal Box and Other Observations
The cereal box proclaims “Gluten Free”. Curious, I read the back for more information and learned “Gluten Free” means the cereal “contains no gluten”. Not a startling message to me, but then the message is aimed at the school age set, certainly not me. Have you looked at your communication material to see if it is in sync with your intended audience?
While visiting my ophthalmologist, I looked at his business card. The phone number print is so small to be a challenge to good eyesight. I’m curious as to how useful it is for people with eyesight problems. Is the purpose to attract clients? Have you looked at your communication material to see if it is in sync with your intended audience?
Reserving a limo to the airport. After getting my departure info, the reservationist wished me a pleasant flight. “Do you meet customers on the return flight?” “We can if you want.” Again, my curiosity shifted into high gear. I wondered how many return fares were lost by not asking about the return flight. Are your employees selling the company in everything they do?
Many times double speak is used to gloss over unfavorable news. One of the US automakers (long before TARP) used the term “Career Alternative Enhancement Program” when it laid off 5,000 workers. Are you a straight shooter when dealing with your employees and customers?
During an introductory discussion with a client, I was trying to understand the company’s cash flow issue. I was surprised to find that the company owner had signed an office lease that left the company paying rent even though the space was not going to be ready for a few months. Are you using available resources to protect the company from mistakes?
