OOPSIE DOOPSIE

‘Tis the season for last minute shopping, gathering those lost addresses for holiday cards, and finally spending quality time with family and friends. One of my favorite holiday traditions is watching White Christmas on Christmas Day with my entire family. Although some struggle [to say the least… I have no idea why] to watch this timeless tale, it’s a story that I can’t get enough of and look forward to every year! And one that I may have already watched a few times already. It really comes to zero surprise that I discovered this movie has some great marketing take-aways. Perhaps that is one reason I love it – that, and I can’t resist Bing’s voice or Rosemary’s sass. LOVE YOU, ROSEMARY!

1. There is always an opportunity to network

The Scenario: Danny Kaye certainly can sell it! After he saved Bing’s character and Bing visits him in the infirmary tent, Kaye quickly moves the conversation to his not-so-secret love of show business. He pitched a duet number and with a few words urging to test the spot, and possibly laying a little guilt trip, Kaye got the meeting, and the duet number, with Bing.

Everyday Marketing: This is a perfect example of sharing your experience or talking to industry professionals regardless of the setting. You don’t need to be at a business-related event to discuss business-related ideas or topics. Just give it a try – the worst they could say is “No” or “We will talk later”… and then you could just grab your arm and force the conversation. Kidding! {BUT it would make for one hell of a conversation starter… just saying.}

2. Be A Special/Surprise Guest

The Scenario: When Bing and Kaye were meeting the Haynes sisters, the guys ended up saving the day and getting those ladies out of a little jam. What did they do? Well, they dressed up as Betty and Judy and performed the number “Sisters”. Stepping out in drag suited this loveable duo as they stole the spotlight for a moment and gave the sisters a head start to Vermont.

Everyday Marketing: Modern day marketing translation? Writing guest posts on other industry blogs or appearing as an expert presenter at an industry event. It’s about expanding your audience base and “performing” on a different platform that might be outside of your comfort zone. This will help you grow both personally and professionally… or give you something fun to talk about in future conversations 🙂

3. Partner in Efforts

The Scenario: The film ends with a huge celebration for the General on Christmas Eve. SNOW!!!! But this event would not have been possible without the help of fellow performers, Ed Harrison and the Haynes sisters, as well as the General’s housekeeper and granddaughter. By coming together, the end event was a true success that brought a tear to the old man’s eye and unified the dynamic team once again.

Everyday Marketing: Sometimes, when presented with bigger opportunities, marketers should enlist the help of other marketing professionals, media or other industry leaders to help spread the message and strengthen the urgency/importance/relevance. Through a successful outcome, you now have several individuals to help in future endeavors. And that is priceless in the world of marketing.

Any other marketing take-aways that you can think of from the film?

Now I have the itch… think I might go pop that gem in the player. Hope everyone has a happy and healthy holiday season! Happy Marketing! 🙂