So much to do, so little time

Finally, I found some peace and quiet so I can write to you on my blog (I know you have been waiting for it impatiently). Actually I missed writing much more than you missed reading. Last few weeks I was busy moving to my new place, while working hard on a project I run now (a house we are renovating), while painting and designing my new place, while painting my old apartment and... dealing with my advertising clients all at once. So I am challenging you my readers to find me an extra hour (prizes will be given of course). When you think about it, it's amazing how much we can accomplish in such little time. Some of us who worked in an ad agency know exactly what I am talking about. But still even when we do accomplish a lot it doesn't mean we do a good job. So yes me too, perfect as I am, need an extra hour. So pick up the glove and find me an extra hour.
Even if it takes you more time than you have

Don't forget the credit

That's a line I must have said at least a million times. There is a place of honor on any ad or T.V. campaign for the agency's credit. Now, lets think for a second, why? Israel is the only place in the world (to my knowledge) in which ad agencies use credits on their work. It is quite funny when the definition of the word credit is: the artistic or intellectual sense refers to an acknowledgment of those who contributed to a work, whether through ideas or in a more direct sense. So isn't it more logical to give the audience a chance to acknowledge the work before we decide to give it credit ourselves?
Has I mentioned before, I too have sinned and put credit on work we did but even then,
it wasn't that innocent. Because in the case of bad looking ads (you know, the ones the client designed) we didn't put any credit. So, it shows, that we know we are pushing it. I think we should stop being afraid and forget the credits, (some of us are good enough) unless of course we receive it from our viewers, and then it is twice as nice.
For those who don't agree, well, I think you don't deserve the credit

Creative of the week

War of the worlds - or war of the brands

When you think of wars and the players who run them, you can't help but wonder, who's the winner? Of course each side claims to have won, but in the absence of referees, well...
so if there is no winner and it's just going on and on, can we stop and continue tomorrow? and for the love of god who sponsors all this?
Well life isn't sports and wars are not a game. But a game on the other hand, can be war.
Two days, five sets, ten hours and two modern days gladiators have proven (and will keep on doing so tomorrow) to us what is it like to go to war and fight like lions, for the win (and for the sponsor). This time it is Nike against Lacoste, U.S.A against France or just Isner vs. Mahut. It doesn't really matter, because in a game (not like in war) everyone's a winner. The players, both winner and looser, will become richer. The brand they represent will become even more known. Even the country they came from will earn the respect. So... what have we learned boys and girls? I think I can quote Edwin Starr when I say:
"War, what is good for? absolutely nothing!" well except for the sponsors of course

You can take it to the bank

Just when I thought customer service in Israel has improved a tiny bit, it hit me right in the face. This morning I went to the bank for what seemingly was a simple request. All I needed is a letter proving I am the rightful owner of my account. That means an easy to fill out form, that has my name and I.D. number plus my bank account number with the signature of the bank at the bottom. Well... it was even easier than I thought, but also MORE EXPENSIVE. Why for god's sake should I have to pay, in my bank, at my branch, with my money 42 NIS for this silly note.
Of course after a bit of unnecessary and wasted 15 minutes of nerves I didn't pay a cent,
but the real question here is why? Why did we have to waste our time, when clearly we didn't have to. Isn't that the core of customer service, solving problems before they occur

Keep watching

One of the greatest ads which I hope will win at Cannes

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MnSIp76CvUI

Creative of the week