Passionate people care passionately about the things they commit their lives to. Since passion is the impetus of creativity—they go hand-in-hand. But too much passion can be a problem if it culminates in perpetual conflict. It's all about finding a balance between creative discourse and unproductive push-back. But there are some situations where finding that … Continue reading Is It Time to Cut Ties with Your Creative Team?
In the social media age, everyone’s a writer. From the blogosphere to Twitter (and everywhere in-between), the digital world has produced a cacophony of voices and opinions, all vying to gain your attention and sell you their product. But crafting marketing or communications copy well takes more than creativity or imagination—it also requires strategic, persuasive writing skills.If … Continue reading Six Tips Guaranteed to Improve Your Marketing Copy
I vividly remember the very first time I had to pitch a creative concept to leadership. I was a wreck—absolutely petrified they’d suddenly realize I was a talentless imposter and toss me out with the evening trash. Melodramatic for sure, but true. For an individual whose life has been all about words, I lost mine … Continue reading What You Need to Know to Sell Your Creative Concept
In a market saturated by competitors, one of the biggest challenges you’ll face is identifying your brand difference. But knowing what sets you apart from your competitors—and leading from that place of expertise—elevates your messages, builds authentic relationships with your audience, and carves out a space in the industry that is distinctly your own. But … Continue reading How to Zero in on Your Brand Difference
Creative blocks happen to everyone. Maybe you’re sweating a deadline, or there are too many competing projects on your plate. Whatever the reason, every Creative has experienced a moment where inspiration is lacking but your deliverable’s due date is quickly approaching. Next time you’re banging your head against the desk hoping for creativity to spark, … Continue reading 5 Ways to Break Through a Creative Block
Brand storytelling is a buzz term, so you're likely to hear it more and more every day. In the last decade, the concept has taken off, and now everyone is giving it a go. I would bet the Marketers and Creatives on your team probably toss it out regularly when pitching their ideas to you. … Continue reading The ABCs of Brand Storytelling
I’ve had the opportunity over the years to work for amazingly talented creative leaders and some not-so-great-ones, too. Along the way, I've realized there are a few basic qualities that separate the powerful creative leaders from the weak. Here are the essential characteristics those rock star leaders from my past shared. Strategy, Strategy, Strategy Powerful … Continue reading Do You Have What It Takes to Be a Creative Leader?
Is the copy editor more important than the writer? Where does a proofer fit in? What's the difference between a copywriter and a copy editor? Are they the same person? For the uninitiated, the jargon used by professional writing teams can be confusing. In fact, you may be using these terms interchangeably not realizing they … Continue reading There’s a Difference: Copywriter, Copy Editor, Proofer
“Common sense is not so common…” –Voltaire What does your Creative team do when confronted with a challenge? Do they roll-up their sleeves and get their hands dirty? Or do they groan and avoid eye contact? How your team responds to a challenge depends on your leadership. So, if you want them to step up when presented … Continue reading The Secret to Happy Creative Employees
Professional organizations rely on Creatives (communications specialists, copywriters/editors, content strategists, art directors, digital specialists, and graphic designers) to help them craft compelling campaigns that resonate with their target audiences.
Rhiannon Pickus 