Lessons from Obama’s Presidential campaign
iMedia Connections’s recent article about the lessons from the Presidential campaign can be used to inspire marketers.

Stand for something/Define your value
Obama combined a simple, rational message -- Change -- with an emotional and empowering call-to-action: Yes we can.  Corporations, just like political candidates, increasingly need to define their value in simple, unambiguous terms.

Capture and empower your fan base
Obama used the web to build a database of supporters and to engage them in a conversation, ultimately using his disciples to spread his message.  This is the power of social marketing.

Turn on the videos
YouTube was a vital medium for Obama's campaign and continues after inauguration. The weekly presidential address, traditionally on radio, is now a video released on YouTube and also on the White House website.

Lighten things up
Obama's campaign was notable for its sense of humor, in many cases forcing his opponents onto the late night talk show circuit to their comparative disadvantage.  Encouraging creativity is another way for brands to show that they aren’t stuffy.

Touch your target
Inclusive events and personal conversations were also hallmarks of the Obama campaign.  The sense of one-to-one communication by targeting can be especially powerful for corporations.

Measure green, make green
Clearly the Obama campaign benefited from the support of environmentalists.  Today, every organization is being judged by its sustainability.

Do well by doing good
Obama raised unprecedented sums of money by convincing millions to "give a little money for the cause of change," making people feel they were part of a movement.

Spend it if you've got it
The current economy, while producing fear in most marketers, provides ample opportunity to those with relevant, differentiated positions who are willing to take advantage of retreating competition.

See the entire article and examples of how companies used elements in their branding campaigns at www.imediaconnection.com/content/22044.asp.

We at Definition 6 understand the power of social marketing.  We'll be glad to help you with planning and implementing your marketing plans to help meet your business objectives.