The Brand Known as America
What is it that makes this nation so great?
As we approach the Independence Day holiday, my mind turns to the proud history of this great nation. A few days ago, I was attending a conference and several of us were discussing the problems of the world in an after-hours gab session. As is often the case, the conversation turned to politics, a very uncomfortable situation. Politics is a topic I try to avoid, except in the company of very good friends. At one point though, one of the guys turned to me and said, “Jim, you’re the Brand Coach, what does America’s brand represent?” Keeping in mind that America’s brand resides in the minds and hearts of people around the world, here is what I told him.
America’s greatness is with her people
When our Founding Fathers framed our government, they had the brilliant foresight to craft documents that put the people in charge, not elected officials. People around the world have long admired the fact that our liberties make us great. What we stand for is freedom and it is our people that keep us free.
Freedom and liberty versus tyranny
Think about it. We’re free to live where we want, do what we want, speak out against the government and become whatever we choose. Compared to other nations, America is the model they desire to follow. Sadly, many of those nations are ruled by ruthless dictators and oppressive regimes, many on the brink of collapse, mostly because the people are fed up and seek the freedoms we enjoy every day. Just turn on the news. People are fighting back. They want to be free. Any time a government grabs too much power and the citizens lose freedoms, tyranny ensues and people fight back.
Courage, hard work, risk and reward
For more than 235 years, our country has grown, prospered, and become a great example of freedom because of the courage and hard work of our people. Often at great personal risk, Americans have fought wars, started businesses, grown great communities, and freed the oppressed.
Working in the areas of construction, real estate, and economic development, I’m proud to say I know some very hard working people who take great risks, build things, and create countless jobs that fuel our economy. Plus, they do it on their own. Businesses often fail and a few become great successes that inspire others to do the same. It’s a wonderful model that allows people to accomplish great things.
A valuable lesson not to be forgotten
America’s history is full of powerful life lessons. Please be sure to use this Independence Day holiday to teach your children and grandchildren about our proud heritage and the price paid for the life we live in America. Remind them of their obligation to pass the lessons on.
Independence Day is much more than a day for family picnics. It’s a solemn day of remembrance and thanksgiving. If, like me, you like a good history book, two of my favorites are The Five Thousand Year Leap and Lives of the Signers of the Declaration of Independence. Each carries lessons about the important events and people who made this nation what it is today. I’m sure you’ll enjoy them.
It’s also a time when I enjoy this video of Red Skelton teaching the words and meaning of the Pledge of Allegiance. Watch, enjoy, share and have a great Independence Day.
God bless you and God Bless America.
Jim Walton
jim@brandaccel.com
Brand Acceleration is a full-service advertising, brand management and public relations firm operating from Indianapolis, Indiana and Charlotte, North Carolina. The agency’s focus is on economic development, architecture/engineering/construction and real estate.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Saturday, June 4, 2011
Good Economic News!
Here are just a few of the positive economic announcements that have come my way in recent weeks:
CARBO Ceramics, a maker of products used by oil production companies, has announced plans to expand its operation in Iberia Parish, Louisiana and add 40 new jobs.
Reliance Worldwide, a manufacturer of controls, is locating its headquarters in Vinnings, Georgia, creating 150 new jobs.
In Indianapolis, Indiana, appraisal management firm StreetLinks Lender Solutions, has announced plans to expand and create 150 new jobs.
Meaningful Use Technologies LLC and Arcron Systems, Inc. will each establish its headquarters in Newport, Kentucky, creating 20 new jobs.
Technimark, a provider of plastic injection molding services, will expand its operation in Randolph County, North Carolina, adding 30 jobs.
In Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Power and Rubber Supply, Inc. plans to expand and add 15 new jobs.
Mitsubishi Nuclear Energy Systems, Inc. has announced plans to locate an engineering center in Charlotte, North Carolina, creating 135 new jobs.
Allied Payment Network, Inc., a startup software developer, has announced plans to expand its facility in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, adding 29 new jobs.
In Madisonville, Kentucky, Clark Associates, a provider to the foodservice industry, will locate a distribution center and add 95 new jobs.
Lenovo, a provider of computer services, plans to expand its operation in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina and add 300 employees.
In Ft. Wayne, Indiana, General Mills plans to open a new distribution center and hire 65 new employees.
BitRaider, a digital media company, plans to locate its operation in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and create 22 new jobs.
In Greenville County, South Carolina, CertusBank will locate its corporate headquarters and create 350 new jobs.
We receive numerous announcements each week that announce that several jobs have been “retained or created.” While retention is important, we will not use announcements that fail to define exactly how many jobs were retained and how many were created. We want specifics.
If you have jobs announcements, please send them my way. jim@brandaccel.com
Here are just a few of the positive economic announcements that have come my way in recent weeks:
CARBO Ceramics, a maker of products used by oil production companies, has announced plans to expand its operation in Iberia Parish, Louisiana and add 40 new jobs.
Reliance Worldwide, a manufacturer of controls, is locating its headquarters in Vinnings, Georgia, creating 150 new jobs.
In Indianapolis, Indiana, appraisal management firm StreetLinks Lender Solutions, has announced plans to expand and create 150 new jobs.
Meaningful Use Technologies LLC and Arcron Systems, Inc. will each establish its headquarters in Newport, Kentucky, creating 20 new jobs.
Technimark, a provider of plastic injection molding services, will expand its operation in Randolph County, North Carolina, adding 30 jobs.
In Tuscaloosa, Alabama, Power and Rubber Supply, Inc. plans to expand and add 15 new jobs.
Mitsubishi Nuclear Energy Systems, Inc. has announced plans to locate an engineering center in Charlotte, North Carolina, creating 135 new jobs.
Allied Payment Network, Inc., a startup software developer, has announced plans to expand its facility in Ft. Wayne, Indiana, adding 29 new jobs.
In Madisonville, Kentucky, Clark Associates, a provider to the foodservice industry, will locate a distribution center and add 95 new jobs.
Lenovo, a provider of computer services, plans to expand its operation in Research Triangle Park, North Carolina and add 300 employees.
In Ft. Wayne, Indiana, General Mills plans to open a new distribution center and hire 65 new employees.
BitRaider, a digital media company, plans to locate its operation in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and create 22 new jobs.
In Greenville County, South Carolina, CertusBank will locate its corporate headquarters and create 350 new jobs.
We receive numerous announcements each week that announce that several jobs have been “retained or created.” While retention is important, we will not use announcements that fail to define exactly how many jobs were retained and how many were created. We want specifics.
If you have jobs announcements, please send them my way. jim@brandaccel.com
Stop Wasting your Money on the Wrong Tools
Do it right or go home
You know how sometimes we’ll buy the cheap knock-off version of something, thinking that we’re saving money? Then, after we realize our mistake, we go out and buy the better and more expensive version that we should have bought in the first place. That happened to me last week when I bought a no-name, inexpensive roll of silver/gray tape. Today, it’s in the bottom of a trash bag.
The same thing is true in the marketing communications business. A company or community in need of a new web site or brochure shops around for a bargain. Sometimes, they even send out an RFP, firing up some competition in hopes of getting the lowest price.
We got a great deal!
In the marcom business, there are bargains at every turn. There’s the kid with a shiny new Macintosh computer who has an eye for design. He has no understanding of the principles of design but he’s willing to do the work for a fraction of a professional firm. There’s also the “web designer” who didn’t go to design school but knows how to use the latest software and how to find a web template. He also knows about all of the really cool web apps that serve no purpose but make people say “wow!”
The problem is that neither of these wannabes knows the first thing about marketing strategy or message development. They work real cheap, though!
Poorly written RFP’s
I see countless RFP’s (Request for Proposal) that are so poorly written that it’s often hard to know exactly what the sender wants. Don’t get me wrong; I appreciate the opportunity to submit a proposal, but many RFP’s are written by a purchasing agent or novice who has no idea how to specify the work. Simply put, their vision is unclear, their expectations are undefined, and they don’t know what they are asking for.
A couple of years ago, I received a call from an economic developer who was clearly upset and was hoping I could help her out of a very difficult situation. She was understandably fearful that she was going to lose her job. She had just taken delivery of her county’s new web site and was shocked at what she received.
It was a beautiful design. Unfortunately, her RFP had asked for someone to design a new web site and failed to specify the numerous other critical parts, such as message strategy, copywriting, and programming. What she received was a beautifully designed template with no copy, photography, or programming. Ouch!
Think this is an isolated incident that couldn’t happen today? Wrong! Just last month, I received an RFP for the design of a new city web site. The RFP included three pages of guidelines about the city’s purchasing procedures. It also included one very short paragraph about the web “design,” and another section about how to submit the anticipated proposal. There was no mention of the target audience, who would write the copy, the programming needs, or the host server platform. These are all key things a professional marketing communications provider would need to know.
How do you think their new web site is going to work out? Do you think they’re going to end up with the right tool for the job? It’s doubtful.
Cool clothes, work clothes, and quality tools
When I was a child, I was often jealous of the cool kids who wore the popular clothing brands. My parents had different ideas, though. They could not have cared less about the label on the back side of my jeans. They cared only about buying clothes that would wear well and last a long time. Of course, they always bought me shoes and clothes that were about two sizes too large. They had to last, you know.
As I matured and experienced life, I learned a lot about buying quality, especially when it came to clothing and tools. Since my company works in the construction industry, I spend a lot of time on construction sites. It’s a very cool part of my business and I just love it. It’s a great place to learn about quality and workmanship. Construction workers are passionate people. They take great pride in hard work, doing the work right, and having the right tools. The good ones refuse to cut corners. Their attitude is to do the work right, with the right tools, or go home. Their clothes and boots are made by companies like Carhartt and Red Wing. Their tools bear names like Dewalt and Milwaukee. They know these brands stand for something and are a good investment for their hard-earned money.
Reliable marketing communications tools
As marketers, your tools are important, too. Web sites, brochures, ads, and even your business cards had better be done right. They are often the first things your prospective customers see. There’s no room for cheap knockoffs, here. The competition is tough so you’d better be just as tough. To be anything less is unacceptable. If your inexpensive bargains don’t grow your brand and help you close deals, you’re wasting your money.
When I started Brand Acceleration, I swore to myself that we would strive to create the best marketing tools in the business. We work only in three industries; AEC (architecture, engineering, construction), economic development, and real estate. When we produce work for our clients, we bring a depth of knowledge and counsel that they can’t find elsewhere. We’re part of their team and just as passionate about growing their business as we are our own.
We’re not the cheapest provider of marketing tools. We don’t want to be. But, we do darn good work, creating tools that work hard. If that appeals to you, then we should talk.
Brand Acceleration is a full-service advertising, brand management and public relations firm operating from Indianapolis, Indiana and Charlotte, North Carolina. The agency’s focus is on economic development, architecture/engineering/construction, and real estate.
Do it right or go home
You know how sometimes we’ll buy the cheap knock-off version of something, thinking that we’re saving money? Then, after we realize our mistake, we go out and buy the better and more expensive version that we should have bought in the first place. That happened to me last week when I bought a no-name, inexpensive roll of silver/gray tape. Today, it’s in the bottom of a trash bag.
The same thing is true in the marketing communications business. A company or community in need of a new web site or brochure shops around for a bargain. Sometimes, they even send out an RFP, firing up some competition in hopes of getting the lowest price.
We got a great deal!
In the marcom business, there are bargains at every turn. There’s the kid with a shiny new Macintosh computer who has an eye for design. He has no understanding of the principles of design but he’s willing to do the work for a fraction of a professional firm. There’s also the “web designer” who didn’t go to design school but knows how to use the latest software and how to find a web template. He also knows about all of the really cool web apps that serve no purpose but make people say “wow!”
The problem is that neither of these wannabes knows the first thing about marketing strategy or message development. They work real cheap, though!
Poorly written RFP’s
I see countless RFP’s (Request for Proposal) that are so poorly written that it’s often hard to know exactly what the sender wants. Don’t get me wrong; I appreciate the opportunity to submit a proposal, but many RFP’s are written by a purchasing agent or novice who has no idea how to specify the work. Simply put, their vision is unclear, their expectations are undefined, and they don’t know what they are asking for.
A couple of years ago, I received a call from an economic developer who was clearly upset and was hoping I could help her out of a very difficult situation. She was understandably fearful that she was going to lose her job. She had just taken delivery of her county’s new web site and was shocked at what she received.
It was a beautiful design. Unfortunately, her RFP had asked for someone to design a new web site and failed to specify the numerous other critical parts, such as message strategy, copywriting, and programming. What she received was a beautifully designed template with no copy, photography, or programming. Ouch!
Think this is an isolated incident that couldn’t happen today? Wrong! Just last month, I received an RFP for the design of a new city web site. The RFP included three pages of guidelines about the city’s purchasing procedures. It also included one very short paragraph about the web “design,” and another section about how to submit the anticipated proposal. There was no mention of the target audience, who would write the copy, the programming needs, or the host server platform. These are all key things a professional marketing communications provider would need to know.
How do you think their new web site is going to work out? Do you think they’re going to end up with the right tool for the job? It’s doubtful.
Cool clothes, work clothes, and quality tools
When I was a child, I was often jealous of the cool kids who wore the popular clothing brands. My parents had different ideas, though. They could not have cared less about the label on the back side of my jeans. They cared only about buying clothes that would wear well and last a long time. Of course, they always bought me shoes and clothes that were about two sizes too large. They had to last, you know.
As I matured and experienced life, I learned a lot about buying quality, especially when it came to clothing and tools. Since my company works in the construction industry, I spend a lot of time on construction sites. It’s a very cool part of my business and I just love it. It’s a great place to learn about quality and workmanship. Construction workers are passionate people. They take great pride in hard work, doing the work right, and having the right tools. The good ones refuse to cut corners. Their attitude is to do the work right, with the right tools, or go home. Their clothes and boots are made by companies like Carhartt and Red Wing. Their tools bear names like Dewalt and Milwaukee. They know these brands stand for something and are a good investment for their hard-earned money.
Reliable marketing communications tools
As marketers, your tools are important, too. Web sites, brochures, ads, and even your business cards had better be done right. They are often the first things your prospective customers see. There’s no room for cheap knockoffs, here. The competition is tough so you’d better be just as tough. To be anything less is unacceptable. If your inexpensive bargains don’t grow your brand and help you close deals, you’re wasting your money.
When I started Brand Acceleration, I swore to myself that we would strive to create the best marketing tools in the business. We work only in three industries; AEC (architecture, engineering, construction), economic development, and real estate. When we produce work for our clients, we bring a depth of knowledge and counsel that they can’t find elsewhere. We’re part of their team and just as passionate about growing their business as we are our own.
We’re not the cheapest provider of marketing tools. We don’t want to be. But, we do darn good work, creating tools that work hard. If that appeals to you, then we should talk.
Brand Acceleration is a full-service advertising, brand management and public relations firm operating from Indianapolis, Indiana and Charlotte, North Carolina. The agency’s focus is on economic development, architecture/engineering/construction, and real estate.
Sunday, May 22, 2011
Good News!
Here are just a few of the positive economic announcements that have come my way in recent weeks:
In Mount Vernon, Illinois, Continental Tires the Americas, will expand its manufacturing operation and create 444 new jobs.
Meggitt Aircraft Braking, a supplier of aircraft wheels and brakes, has announced plans to open a new facility in Danville, Kentucky and hire 63 people.
In Dearborn County, Indiana, Fortis Security Products, a maker of vaults, safes and other products for banks and financial institutions, plans to relocate its corporate headquarters, creating 15 new jobs. Congratulations to Mike Rozow and the rest of the team at the Dearborn County Economic Initiative.
AttagGroup, Inc., a supplier of dispensing products, has announced plans to open a new manufacturing facility in Lincolnton, North Carolina. Congrats to Barry Matherly and the entire staff at the Lincoln County Development Association.
In Louisville, Kentucky, Invensys Rail Corporation, a developer of control systems for railways and transit authorities, will expand its headquarters and create 75 new jobs.
Amy’s Kitchen, a maker of natural and organic foods, has announced plans to open a new facility in Greenville County, South Carolina, creating 700 new jobs.
In Thomasville, Alabama, Lakeside Steel, a maker of pipe for the oil and gas industries, plans to expand and create 80 new jobs.
Molded Foam, LLC, a manufacturer of foam seating and cushioning materials, has announced plans to relocate its operation to Bristol, Indiana and create 45 new jobs.
The Roberts Company, a provider of services to the chemical, power, mining and pulp and paper industries, plans to open a facility in Pitt County, North Carolina, creating 29 new jobs.
In Somerset, Kentucky, UGN, Inc., a producer of acoustic carpet systems, will expand its manufacturing operation and hire 50 people.
Capitol One Auto Finance has announced plans to expand its Tulsa, Oklahoma operation and add 100 new jobs.
Blue Pillar, Inc., an energy asset software and controls company, plans to relocate its headquarters and create 70 new jobs.
Ornet Corporation, a producer of aluminum products, will reopen its facility in Ascension Parish, Louisiana and create 240 new jobs.
Pella Corporation, a maker of windows and doors, has announced plans to expand its operation in Murray, Kentucky and create 75 new jobs.
In Greenville, South Carolina, Adv Machining Technologies, a specialist in advanced machining, will expand its operation and add 10 new jobs.
International Paper, a maker of paper and packaging products, has announced plans to repurpose a portion of its closed mill in Isle of Wright County, Virginia, creating 213 new jobs.
Modern Distributors, a supplier to the convenience store industry, plans to expand its facility in Somerset, Kentucky and hire 20 people.
In McDowell County, North Carolina, Janesville Acoustics, a supplier of acoustical and molded products for the automotive industry, plans to expand and create 40 new jobs.
We receive numerous announcements each week that announce that several jobs have been “retained or created.” While retention is important, we will not use announcements that fail to define exactly how many jobs were retained and how many were created. We want specifics.
If you have jobs announcements, please send them my way. jim@brandaccel.com
Here are just a few of the positive economic announcements that have come my way in recent weeks:
In Mount Vernon, Illinois, Continental Tires the Americas, will expand its manufacturing operation and create 444 new jobs.
Meggitt Aircraft Braking, a supplier of aircraft wheels and brakes, has announced plans to open a new facility in Danville, Kentucky and hire 63 people.
In Dearborn County, Indiana, Fortis Security Products, a maker of vaults, safes and other products for banks and financial institutions, plans to relocate its corporate headquarters, creating 15 new jobs. Congratulations to Mike Rozow and the rest of the team at the Dearborn County Economic Initiative.
AttagGroup, Inc., a supplier of dispensing products, has announced plans to open a new manufacturing facility in Lincolnton, North Carolina. Congrats to Barry Matherly and the entire staff at the Lincoln County Development Association.
In Louisville, Kentucky, Invensys Rail Corporation, a developer of control systems for railways and transit authorities, will expand its headquarters and create 75 new jobs.
Amy’s Kitchen, a maker of natural and organic foods, has announced plans to open a new facility in Greenville County, South Carolina, creating 700 new jobs.
In Thomasville, Alabama, Lakeside Steel, a maker of pipe for the oil and gas industries, plans to expand and create 80 new jobs.
Molded Foam, LLC, a manufacturer of foam seating and cushioning materials, has announced plans to relocate its operation to Bristol, Indiana and create 45 new jobs.
The Roberts Company, a provider of services to the chemical, power, mining and pulp and paper industries, plans to open a facility in Pitt County, North Carolina, creating 29 new jobs.
In Somerset, Kentucky, UGN, Inc., a producer of acoustic carpet systems, will expand its manufacturing operation and hire 50 people.
Capitol One Auto Finance has announced plans to expand its Tulsa, Oklahoma operation and add 100 new jobs.
Blue Pillar, Inc., an energy asset software and controls company, plans to relocate its headquarters and create 70 new jobs.
Ornet Corporation, a producer of aluminum products, will reopen its facility in Ascension Parish, Louisiana and create 240 new jobs.
Pella Corporation, a maker of windows and doors, has announced plans to expand its operation in Murray, Kentucky and create 75 new jobs.
In Greenville, South Carolina, Adv Machining Technologies, a specialist in advanced machining, will expand its operation and add 10 new jobs.
International Paper, a maker of paper and packaging products, has announced plans to repurpose a portion of its closed mill in Isle of Wright County, Virginia, creating 213 new jobs.
Modern Distributors, a supplier to the convenience store industry, plans to expand its facility in Somerset, Kentucky and hire 20 people.
In McDowell County, North Carolina, Janesville Acoustics, a supplier of acoustical and molded products for the automotive industry, plans to expand and create 40 new jobs.
We receive numerous announcements each week that announce that several jobs have been “retained or created.” While retention is important, we will not use announcements that fail to define exactly how many jobs were retained and how many were created. We want specifics.
If you have jobs announcements, please send them my way. jim@brandaccel.com
Passing of a Giant
A fond remembrance
As we look back, each of us has someone whose presence has had a great impact on our lives. For me, one of those people was my father-in-law, Lloyd Thompson. For the past thirty+ years, I have watched and learned from this wonderful man who set the standard for me to follow.
Family and Friends
Lloyd was all about family and friends. Whenever anyone was in need, he was the first to step forward. I’ve seen him spend countless hours helping others with building and repair projects or any other type of needed assistance. It didn’t matter what the need was, all you had to do was ask and he was on his way.
Likewise, whenever Lloyd needed a helping hand, people came out of the woodwork. I remember a time when he wanted to raise his cabin, which stood on the bank of the Mississippi River. Already about ten feet in the air, he needed to elevate it even higher so that flood waters would be less likely to find their way inside. When the word got out that Lloyd needed help, an incredible throng showed up. But a cabin-raising was more that work, for Lloyd. It was an event and a beautiful thing to watch. Sure, everyone worked hard, but it was incredible to watch the smiling faces and to hear the laughter as this mass of people set out to take on such a monumental task. It was happy work, and he made it that way.
It was common knowledge that any party for Lloyd, whether to celebrate his birthday or one of his many anniversaries for marriage to my mother-in-law, was a large affair. Friends and family would come from miles around. Like everything about Lloyd, his celebrations were bigger than life.
He loved being with his children and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Christmas was an especially important time for him. I remember how his face would light up at that special time of year. He just glowed, knowing that his family came together for such a family affair.
I learned from Lloyd that above all else, family and friends are most important and I aspire to be the husband, father, family man, and friend that he was.
Quiet Patience
Lloyd wasn’t always a patient man, but over the years, he developed the patience of a saint. It often puzzled me how when other people were near panic, Lloyd quietly listened and seemed unfazed, reserving his opinion. He grew to understand that in the grand scheme of things, most crises were small and would soon be forgotten.
Even though I still struggle to be patient and to understand what is truly important, I often think of him and admire his ability to know when to speak and when to remain quiet. I am a work in progress. Lloyd is my role model.
Hard work and team matter
Lloyd was one of the hardest working individuals I’ve ever known. As a project manager/supervisor for a large mechanical contracting firm, he had very demanding expectations of his crew. There was no tolerance for slackers and every person had better pull his or her weight. That included one of his sons, who worked for Lloyd. At the corporate office, it was common knowledge that his crew always got the work done and that promises were kept. His word was always good.
Each of his crew members loved him, too. They knew that because of Lloyd, they were better. Sure, he was a hard driver with very high expectations, but they functioned as a team and Lloyd was their coach. Spread across a huge construction site, he always made a point to personally see each person every day. On the jobsite, the team always came first.
Lloyd’s passion for hard word and team are reflected in my life, too. My goal, as a business owner, is to see to it that every member of the Brand Acceleration team knows that they are part of something big. Not necessarily a big company, but one that represents very high standards and dedication to each other and to our clients. Our expectations are very high and our word is always good.
Love of Country
A Korean War veteran who risked his life as part of an engineering unit, Lloyd had an unwavering love of country. While serving, he often put his life in danger, clearing the way for roads and bridges and driving the slowest possible escape vehicle available…a bulldozer. He and his brothers personally saw the tragedy of war and witnessed the sacrifice of the many who served so that people back home could live free. As a young child, Lloyd heard the stories of one of his brothers after returning home from World War II. Having been taken prisoner, he suffered unimaginable tortures that would haunt him for the rest of his life. Lloyd, too, never forgot.
From Lloyd’s contribution and passionate love of country, I learned to appreciate the costly price paid for what I have today. For his service and for all who served and still serve, I fly the American flag at the front of my home as a statement and a personal reminder.
On May 11, 2011, Lloyd Thompson passed away knowing that his loving family was at his side. Attending his funeral was a large gathering of family and friends who came to pay their respects, celebrate his life, and say goodbye. I was especially moved when one elderly gentleman, about Lloyd's age, stepped up to the casket, did his best to stand at attention, and cast a firm and well-deserved salute.
In my eyes, Lloyd, you were a giant. Your impact will live on in all you touched.
Brand Acceleration is a full-service advertising, brand management and public relations firm operating from Indianapolis, Indiana and Charlotte, North Carolina. The agency’s focus is on economic development, architecture/engineering/construction, and real estate.
A fond remembrance
As we look back, each of us has someone whose presence has had a great impact on our lives. For me, one of those people was my father-in-law, Lloyd Thompson. For the past thirty+ years, I have watched and learned from this wonderful man who set the standard for me to follow.
Family and Friends
Lloyd was all about family and friends. Whenever anyone was in need, he was the first to step forward. I’ve seen him spend countless hours helping others with building and repair projects or any other type of needed assistance. It didn’t matter what the need was, all you had to do was ask and he was on his way.
Likewise, whenever Lloyd needed a helping hand, people came out of the woodwork. I remember a time when he wanted to raise his cabin, which stood on the bank of the Mississippi River. Already about ten feet in the air, he needed to elevate it even higher so that flood waters would be less likely to find their way inside. When the word got out that Lloyd needed help, an incredible throng showed up. But a cabin-raising was more that work, for Lloyd. It was an event and a beautiful thing to watch. Sure, everyone worked hard, but it was incredible to watch the smiling faces and to hear the laughter as this mass of people set out to take on such a monumental task. It was happy work, and he made it that way.
It was common knowledge that any party for Lloyd, whether to celebrate his birthday or one of his many anniversaries for marriage to my mother-in-law, was a large affair. Friends and family would come from miles around. Like everything about Lloyd, his celebrations were bigger than life.
He loved being with his children and his many grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Christmas was an especially important time for him. I remember how his face would light up at that special time of year. He just glowed, knowing that his family came together for such a family affair.
I learned from Lloyd that above all else, family and friends are most important and I aspire to be the husband, father, family man, and friend that he was.
Quiet Patience
Lloyd wasn’t always a patient man, but over the years, he developed the patience of a saint. It often puzzled me how when other people were near panic, Lloyd quietly listened and seemed unfazed, reserving his opinion. He grew to understand that in the grand scheme of things, most crises were small and would soon be forgotten.
Even though I still struggle to be patient and to understand what is truly important, I often think of him and admire his ability to know when to speak and when to remain quiet. I am a work in progress. Lloyd is my role model.
Hard work and team matter
Lloyd was one of the hardest working individuals I’ve ever known. As a project manager/supervisor for a large mechanical contracting firm, he had very demanding expectations of his crew. There was no tolerance for slackers and every person had better pull his or her weight. That included one of his sons, who worked for Lloyd. At the corporate office, it was common knowledge that his crew always got the work done and that promises were kept. His word was always good.
Each of his crew members loved him, too. They knew that because of Lloyd, they were better. Sure, he was a hard driver with very high expectations, but they functioned as a team and Lloyd was their coach. Spread across a huge construction site, he always made a point to personally see each person every day. On the jobsite, the team always came first.
Lloyd’s passion for hard word and team are reflected in my life, too. My goal, as a business owner, is to see to it that every member of the Brand Acceleration team knows that they are part of something big. Not necessarily a big company, but one that represents very high standards and dedication to each other and to our clients. Our expectations are very high and our word is always good.
Love of Country
A Korean War veteran who risked his life as part of an engineering unit, Lloyd had an unwavering love of country. While serving, he often put his life in danger, clearing the way for roads and bridges and driving the slowest possible escape vehicle available…a bulldozer. He and his brothers personally saw the tragedy of war and witnessed the sacrifice of the many who served so that people back home could live free. As a young child, Lloyd heard the stories of one of his brothers after returning home from World War II. Having been taken prisoner, he suffered unimaginable tortures that would haunt him for the rest of his life. Lloyd, too, never forgot.
From Lloyd’s contribution and passionate love of country, I learned to appreciate the costly price paid for what I have today. For his service and for all who served and still serve, I fly the American flag at the front of my home as a statement and a personal reminder.
On May 11, 2011, Lloyd Thompson passed away knowing that his loving family was at his side. Attending his funeral was a large gathering of family and friends who came to pay their respects, celebrate his life, and say goodbye. I was especially moved when one elderly gentleman, about Lloyd's age, stepped up to the casket, did his best to stand at attention, and cast a firm and well-deserved salute.
In my eyes, Lloyd, you were a giant. Your impact will live on in all you touched.
Brand Acceleration is a full-service advertising, brand management and public relations firm operating from Indianapolis, Indiana and Charlotte, North Carolina. The agency’s focus is on economic development, architecture/engineering/construction, and real estate.
Monday, May 9, 2011
Creating a Winning Company Culture
Why do some companies make it look so easy?
I’ve always been fascinated by the fact that some companies and organizations just seem to have the look and feel of winners. Early in my career, I remember going to conventions and industry events and meeting people who were part of the “It” company.
One company in particular, Adayana Agribusiness Group, a training and research company headquartered in Indiana, has that image. The company’s people are very polished and professional, creating a brand image of a company that is “the best” in its field. When I first met Mike Jackson, the company founder, I was in awe of his company and wondered to myself, “What is his secret?”
Over time, I got to know Mike, a very nice person who had established a very high set of standards within which every employee operated. They were very polished, conveying an image of professionalism. They were expert listeners and clear communicators. From customer contact to industry involvement, the company did everything in a first-class style.
Another company, Learfield Communications, a broadcast firm, has also impressed me in much the same way. Company founder Clyde Lear, a gentleman and professional businessman, has a similar style. He always impressed me by the way he treated every person, from his largest client to his competitors. Everyone is treated as a friend. Clyde’s personality and leadership style resonates through everything the company does. Check out their Mission and Values. Unlike any I’ve ever read, and I seriously dislike most mission and vision statements, this page is true Clyde Lear.
I can say that much of what I observed in these individuals went into the way we operate at Brand Acceleration. Although our operational style is not written down in such a document as Learfield’s, we operate under an unspoken set of guidelines, among them are the following:
Honesty and integrity are crucial
The one thing we have in this world is our reputation. Our company brand rides squarely on the backs of each individual associated with this firm. Whether good news or bad, we will never, ever, be anything less than honest with our clients, associates, and friends. Additionally, we expect the same treatment in return.
We encourage and embrace risk-taking
The only way to differentiate our company and the services we offer is by taking risks and finding new and better ways to serve our clients. Will mistakes be made? Certainly! Will we occasionally fall on our faces? Absolutely! That’s how we learn and improve. We encourage our clients to take risks, too. Only by taking risks can they differentiate themselves and achieve stand-out status.
No room for bullies or crybabies
We only do business with people we like. Life’s too short and we have neither the time nor the desire to associate with bullies or crybabies. Over my career, I’ve had co-workers, vendors, and clients who have an affinity for mistreating others. The end result is always the same; people’s lives are made miserable and the relationship eventually ends. So, at Brand Acceleration, we don’t go there. Our employees, vendors, and clients either play well together or someone leaves. Period!
Have fun!
If we can’t have fun at our jobs, why continue doing what we do? For the money? Right! Is that it? At Brand Acceleration, we seek joy from everything we do. Our team, vendors, clients, and others are each part of what makes us happy. Understanding that we are all working toward the same goal, we work hard to do great things and build relationships that will last forever.
If we can ever be of service to your community or company, I hope you’ll give me a call. I could always use another customer, and another friend.
Brand Acceleration is a full-service advertising, brand management and public relations firm operating from Indianapolis, Indiana and Charlotte, North Carolina. The agency’s focus is on economic development, architecture/engineering/construction, and real estate.
Why do some companies make it look so easy?
I’ve always been fascinated by the fact that some companies and organizations just seem to have the look and feel of winners. Early in my career, I remember going to conventions and industry events and meeting people who were part of the “It” company.
One company in particular, Adayana Agribusiness Group, a training and research company headquartered in Indiana, has that image. The company’s people are very polished and professional, creating a brand image of a company that is “the best” in its field. When I first met Mike Jackson, the company founder, I was in awe of his company and wondered to myself, “What is his secret?”
Over time, I got to know Mike, a very nice person who had established a very high set of standards within which every employee operated. They were very polished, conveying an image of professionalism. They were expert listeners and clear communicators. From customer contact to industry involvement, the company did everything in a first-class style.
Another company, Learfield Communications, a broadcast firm, has also impressed me in much the same way. Company founder Clyde Lear, a gentleman and professional businessman, has a similar style. He always impressed me by the way he treated every person, from his largest client to his competitors. Everyone is treated as a friend. Clyde’s personality and leadership style resonates through everything the company does. Check out their Mission and Values. Unlike any I’ve ever read, and I seriously dislike most mission and vision statements, this page is true Clyde Lear.
I can say that much of what I observed in these individuals went into the way we operate at Brand Acceleration. Although our operational style is not written down in such a document as Learfield’s, we operate under an unspoken set of guidelines, among them are the following:
Honesty and integrity are crucial
The one thing we have in this world is our reputation. Our company brand rides squarely on the backs of each individual associated with this firm. Whether good news or bad, we will never, ever, be anything less than honest with our clients, associates, and friends. Additionally, we expect the same treatment in return.
We encourage and embrace risk-taking
The only way to differentiate our company and the services we offer is by taking risks and finding new and better ways to serve our clients. Will mistakes be made? Certainly! Will we occasionally fall on our faces? Absolutely! That’s how we learn and improve. We encourage our clients to take risks, too. Only by taking risks can they differentiate themselves and achieve stand-out status.
No room for bullies or crybabies
We only do business with people we like. Life’s too short and we have neither the time nor the desire to associate with bullies or crybabies. Over my career, I’ve had co-workers, vendors, and clients who have an affinity for mistreating others. The end result is always the same; people’s lives are made miserable and the relationship eventually ends. So, at Brand Acceleration, we don’t go there. Our employees, vendors, and clients either play well together or someone leaves. Period!
Have fun!
If we can’t have fun at our jobs, why continue doing what we do? For the money? Right! Is that it? At Brand Acceleration, we seek joy from everything we do. Our team, vendors, clients, and others are each part of what makes us happy. Understanding that we are all working toward the same goal, we work hard to do great things and build relationships that will last forever.
If we can ever be of service to your community or company, I hope you’ll give me a call. I could always use another customer, and another friend.
Brand Acceleration is a full-service advertising, brand management and public relations firm operating from Indianapolis, Indiana and Charlotte, North Carolina. The agency’s focus is on economic development, architecture/engineering/construction, and real estate.
Good News!
Here are just a few of the positive economic announcements that have come my way in recent weeks:
Pharmaceutical manufacturer Merck has announced plans to expand its operation in Durham, North Carolina, adding 150 new jobs.
Italian pasta maker Pastificio Rana has announced plans to open a production facility in Bartlett, Illinois, creating 70 new jobs.
In Milledgeville, Georgia, Triumph Aerostructures—Vought Aircraft Division will expand its facility and create 250 new jobs.
Aluminum recycler Huntington Aluminum plans to open a new facility in Huntington, Indiana, creating 43 new jobs.
In Bowling Green, Kentucky, General Motors Corporation will refurbish its facility and add 250 new jobs.
Windstream Hosted Solutions will add a new data center in Charlotte, North Carolina, adding an undisclosed number of new employees.
In Boone County, Indiana, Skjodt-Barrett Foods, a maker of specialty foods, plans to locate its U.S. headquarters in Lebanon, creating 300 new jobs. Congrats to our economic developer Dax Norton.
Southeast Renewable Energy has announced plans to build a facility in Dorchester County, South Carolina, creating 20 new jobs.
In Sauk Village, Illinois, Winpak Portion Packaging, Inc. will build a new facility and add 40 new jobs.
Tempur-Pedic, a manufacturer of sleep products, will expand its global headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky, creating 65 new jobs.
In Marlboro County, South Carolina, ECAPS Corporation, a building materials maker, will locate a new operation and hire 150 people.
Capital Adhesives, Inc. has announced plans to expand its operation in Mooresville, Indiana, adding five new employees. Congrats to economic developers Joy McCarthy-Sessing and Jeff Pipkin.
In Burke County, North Carolina, furniture maker Geiger International plans to expand its manufacturing plant and add 26 new jobs.
We receive numerous announcements each week that announce that several jobs have been “retained or created.” While retention is important, we will not use announcements that fail to define exactly how many jobs were retained and how many were created. We want specifics.
If you have jobs announcements, please send them my way. jim@brandaccel.com
Here are just a few of the positive economic announcements that have come my way in recent weeks:
Pharmaceutical manufacturer Merck has announced plans to expand its operation in Durham, North Carolina, adding 150 new jobs.
Italian pasta maker Pastificio Rana has announced plans to open a production facility in Bartlett, Illinois, creating 70 new jobs.
In Milledgeville, Georgia, Triumph Aerostructures—Vought Aircraft Division will expand its facility and create 250 new jobs.
Aluminum recycler Huntington Aluminum plans to open a new facility in Huntington, Indiana, creating 43 new jobs.
In Bowling Green, Kentucky, General Motors Corporation will refurbish its facility and add 250 new jobs.
Windstream Hosted Solutions will add a new data center in Charlotte, North Carolina, adding an undisclosed number of new employees.
In Boone County, Indiana, Skjodt-Barrett Foods, a maker of specialty foods, plans to locate its U.S. headquarters in Lebanon, creating 300 new jobs. Congrats to our economic developer Dax Norton.
Southeast Renewable Energy has announced plans to build a facility in Dorchester County, South Carolina, creating 20 new jobs.
In Sauk Village, Illinois, Winpak Portion Packaging, Inc. will build a new facility and add 40 new jobs.
Tempur-Pedic, a manufacturer of sleep products, will expand its global headquarters in Lexington, Kentucky, creating 65 new jobs.
In Marlboro County, South Carolina, ECAPS Corporation, a building materials maker, will locate a new operation and hire 150 people.
Capital Adhesives, Inc. has announced plans to expand its operation in Mooresville, Indiana, adding five new employees. Congrats to economic developers Joy McCarthy-Sessing and Jeff Pipkin.
In Burke County, North Carolina, furniture maker Geiger International plans to expand its manufacturing plant and add 26 new jobs.
We receive numerous announcements each week that announce that several jobs have been “retained or created.” While retention is important, we will not use announcements that fail to define exactly how many jobs were retained and how many were created. We want specifics.
If you have jobs announcements, please send them my way. jim@brandaccel.com
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