I'm Supposed to Be Impressed?

Those of you who have read my posts before (including yesterday's post about Michael Phelps) know that I believe in both the power of the brand and in protecting that brand.

We works years - perhaps most of our lifetime until now - establishing our brand through our actions, personal integrity, the quality of our product or service, and the relationships that we build. With all that is stake in building the brand, we would want to do everything conceivable to maintain it.

That said, I imagine all of us at one time or another have gone to a trade show, expo, or product fair and left with a few "takeaways." Calculators, soft foam toys, balls, pencils, pens, drink cozies, magnets, and similar items come to mind. They are emblazoned with the name, logo, and advertising message of the company that wants us to remember them, use their product or service, and talk about them favorably through word-of-mouth.

Occasionally, it's a more expensive or functional item such as a tape measure, level, or small tool set. Not long ago, I got an item such as this, and I was quite excited about using it. It was compact and would seem to serve me well when I didn't want to take along the larger, more expensive version of it that I already had.

Just to make sure it would work, I tried it out before packing it. Guess what? Nothing. In the trash it went. So much for that item. So much for the (what appeared to be) nice takeaway. So much for that company improving their brand. So much for being impressed.

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For more information about my consulting and coaching services visit my website stevehoffacker.com. I also maintain a blog on the real estate network Active Rain, and you can join this site and begin participating in the fun and networking opportunities by clicking here.