#10) Be obsessive about quality!
Like the ad says: “Quality is Job 1”
Pay close attention to nuance and accuracy—as a lack of these will send a mixed, and possibly negative message at the subconcious level. The inherent quality of your communication will naturally set your message apart. Quality is an iterative process between the big picture and minutiae.
#9) The product must be appropriate!
Execution is the most difficult part of the mix to control. It’s magic, not logic, that ignites passion in your audience. Design should not get in the way of the words, nor should it be a mismatch to the content. Writing and design must work together. This takes teamwork, extra effort, and old-fashioned discipline. As in a jazz quartet, each player must perform by listening to others in the ensemble to truly create a holistic blend that sounds “right.” Only then will your audience say “I can dig it!”
Find that mysterious balance between consistency and flexibility.
#8) Let creativity flow!
Strive for the Runner’s High or that “being in the zone” feeling.
Be open to additional discoveries at any stage of the game.
#7) Trust in Teamwork!
Know how you work best, how your colleagues or clients work, and what works well for the team. Listening is darn hard work. Develop mental touchpoints to make sure you are giving others’ ideas a chance within your own thinking framework. Develop a sense of trust. Be flexible. Bend but don’t break.
#6) Passion!
Have some of this.
#5) A sense of humor!
Have some of this, too...
...about deadlines, coworkers, bosses, printers, your computer, yourself, and the price of a gallon of gas.
#4) Never be completely satisfied with your work!
if you are, you may be in the wrong business!
#3) Know your audience—do your homework!
Connect good strategy with good creativity. Do surveys, put yourself in the viewer's shoes.
#2) Develop a set of ideals!
Have a vision, a meaning to what you do. Be authentic.
And the number one rule for winning techniques?
#1) Be committed!
...To your craft. Make the extra effort and go the extra mile.
I was compelled to put a bit of content on this site that showed some of my personality and philosophy — so here it is! In time I hope to add more fun or otherwise interesting items.
The following was composed for a conference presentation to communicators a few years ago. It still sounds pretty good to me so I am including it here. But beware, there are a few cliches ahead!
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