Here’s what I think is great about life. You see an ad like this:
Are you a multitasking hero? We are seeking a PR/media-relationship guru with at least 5 years experience to assist in pitching our campaign to regional and national media outlets. Experience generating strong interest in both consumer and vertical markets required.
So they hire an expert. Some guy with an advanced degree works his butt off developing a slick, multi-platform integrated campaign. And it goes nowhere, garnering at best a few Facebook “likes.”
Meanwhile, over at a health-related non-profit someone says this:
“Hey, let’s dare people to dunk themselves with a freezing-cold bucket of ice water. They’ll film it, post it online, and then challenge other people.
This person would never get hired at the top company. But he knows the truth – simple and funny always beats complex. We want to be wasting away in Margaritaville, not going down with The Wreck Of The Edmund Fitzgerald.
And I’ve just learned something this week.
I’m guessing some frat boy intern came up with the ice bucket challenge idea.
The universal power of slapstick — that’s exactly the kind of phrase I was looking for before I gave up a went with Mr Lightfoot.
Don’t worry – you scored there too. I’ve been secretly making fun of Gordon and The Wreck since I was a kid.
A guru? After only 5 years of experience? That person knows nothing but corporate speak.
The person at the non-profit? Probably older, wiser, and recognizes the simple and universal power of slapstick.