I’ve been writing for 28 years. These days, I write for fun, not survival, so there may be a little less going on here. Have a look at the 1,000+ posts I wrote on Portent.com
Coax. Persuade. Cajole.
Using Generative AI Right
I used ChatGPT to generate a cycling training plan and got a valuable reminder that generative AI can’t think. But it knows a lot. Getting it to convert that knowledge into something useful takes a little coaxing and persuading. Cajoling, even.
Continue readingPlague Words And Their Alternatives
I won’t bore you with a long post. This is a list of words and phrases you should leave out of your business writing and (most) marketing copy, and a few alternatives (plus snarky remarks).
Continue readingMarketing’s Secret Currency: Return On Time Invested
The first thing your audience spends on you is time. Make sure they get a good return on investment.
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For Unforgettable Marketing,
Teach The Shit Out Of Everything
Teaching makes you memorable. It’s the best marketing tool you’ve got.
Continue readingStop Headaches With Merged Data Content Scoring
Links, tools, and the deck from my SEMPDX Engage 2024 talk about merged data content scoring (oh, and you can schedule a little Q&A time with yours truly).
Continue readingDigital 101: Three Questions Make Marketing Work
You want to be better at digital marketing? Understand that it’s still MARKETING, and marketing boils down to three questions: What’s the problem? How do I fix the problem? How can you help me fix it better? To create kick-ass stuff, describe the problem, describe the solution, and make your pitch.
Continue readingWhen The Lights Go Out: Closing An Agency The Right Way
If you’re shutting down your agency, remember: Your responsibilities don’t end after you turn out the lights. My thoughts on Portent’s closure, and how we can do better.
Continue readingSocial Media Is Not Owned Media
Social media isn’t owned media.
I could write a huge, theoretical rant about social media and the definition of owned media. Thanks to my pal Elon Musk, I don’t have to.
Continue readingWhat’s The Minimum Number Of Words For A Blog Post?
One.
Marketing Bandwagons: With “AI,” What’s Old Is New Again
When we talk to clients about generative AI, ChatGPT, and all the latest fads, we need to be the grown-ups. Right now, we suck at it.
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