Gearing Up For BLACK FRIDAY...

Black Friday is almost here and whether you are someone who can’t wait to fight the crowds for a great deal or plan to avoid the commotion at all costs, Black Friday will mark shopping highlight of the year.

Many retailers have already crafted deals to drive sales and push their sales numbers into the black. And it’s time for credit unions and banks to get in on the action… here are a few ideas on how to get involved:

• Create Black Friday specials on mortgages, savings accounts, and certificates of deposit. Consider extending a modified offer through the New Year.
• Promote your customers’ debit card usage through the holidays with a holiday drawing that requires a debit card swipe for every entry.
• Position your CDs or savings accounts as a holiday present. In the current economy, the gift of savings is most likely more useful than a sweater!
• Open early at 6:00 a.m. to accommodate shopper’s cash needs.

End this year in the black... and gain momentum to continue throughout 2011!

Best,

Jamie

Worth 1,000 words - a refreshing look at great advertising.

Over time I like to collect visuals that I think are clever communication/advertising tools. Samples to go back to for when I have creative block, or for when I just need some outrageous inspiration. Included here is a small selection of billboards and outdoor designs that I think are just GREAT marketing tools. Each one in their own specific way are notable for promoting a brand or product in such a special way that you just have to say "Wow, will ya look at that...clever."










Sometimes you just need a little inspiration to get your blood pumping, a bit of a nudge to create that "WOW." Give us a call and let us help your organization make that happen.

Until next time,
Jeremy

Would you like a checking account with that pizza?

Would you like a checking account with that pizza?

This month I am traveling meeting with potential clients, visiting family for the holidays and catching up with old friends. After driving over 700 miles in three days, I was getting ready to relax in my hotel and watch the Indianapolis Colts continue their pursuit of perfection.

As you probably know, a football game isn't complete without pizza and your favorite beverage!

Thirty minutes before game time, I called Domino's delivery.

When the pizza arrived, stapled to the pizza box was a flyer from National City Bank. "Open up a National City Checking Account and get up to $300 - How's that for a bank statement." The flyer had all the qualifications and required legal disclosures.

The flyer was branch generic but included the "call to action" i.e. come to your nearest location or call a 800#. It had an expiration date, etc.

I don't know how many Domino's pizzas get delivered in a months time in the city of Indianapolis but I'm sure the number is substantial. The cost of the flyer was minimal and I'm not sure if a fee was paid to Domino's but the all in cost (excluding the $300 offer) was probably very reasonable.

Someone at National City really got creative when trying to grow their checking base.

I know it is a cliche but don't be afraid to "think outside the box" as you tackle your institutions growth challenges!

Have a great holiday season!

Mike