Notes from Sandpiper

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Child with Guitar

Marketing Lessons from a Child: Singing Off-Key

March 02, 20263 min read


Singing Off-Key:

Mom, Dad, Uncle, Aunt, Friend. No matter your title, you have probably encountered a child at some point in your life. You have seen the sweet side, and you've probably seen the worst part of a child's attitude.

What we hope you've gotten a chance to experience is that in-between state of emotion within a child. It's the state that can either make those around them laugh or cry. It's the side of the child that can drive you mad in a good way or in a I'm-going-to-lose-my-ever-living-mind kind of way.

What moments are we talking about? Close your eyes and imagine a toddler standing tall on their front porch, child-size guitar in their hands, strumming to what is definitely their own tune, and singing in a key that not even Mariah Carey would dream of hitting; this is the moment where attention is asked for and received.

child playing guitar

At Least You'll Catch Their Attention

With many of us having children, we understand moments like these. We can be deep into our marketing mindset when moments like these happen, and when it does, that's when the light bulb goes off.

When it comes to marketing, there can be so many formulas, to-dos, and must-haves. There seems to be a new "Top 5" ways to succeed, and there's always a new branding technique to add to your methods.

Are all the "new" ways bad? Of course not. Is it a good idea to stay on top of the high-performing trends? Absolutely. Sometimes, though, it's the pressure of doing it all right that causes us to stay frozen in our marketing efforts.

That's when it's time to sing off-key.

You may not know all the answers or use the right marketing terminology. Don't let that keep you from showing off your brand! You may not be a Mariah Carey who can bring anyone and everyone into the Holiday Spirit with one note, but you most definitely can grab the attention of others by doing the best you absolutely can.

Even if it comes out a little chaotic at first, at least you are doing it. You are diving in, figuring out what works and what doesn't work, fine-tuning your strings, and searching for the tune that is uniquely yours to be shared with your unique audience.

Define It

So as you go about each day in your business, remember to simply do. Find your inspiration however you need to. Find the partners that will help guide you in your brand's journey.

Guitar Beach

Define who you are, what you do, and how you want those to see you by allowing your brand to be authentically you.

Don't aim to be more than you can handle. Don't aim to be less than you deserve. Simply put in the work, don't give up your dream, and keep singing.

Even if you are a little off-key, at least you will have grabbed their attention.

What's Next?

Come work with the team at Sandpiper Agency to define, refine and elevate your brand. We promise to sing on-key ;)

Ashley Stidfole

Ashley Stidfole - Founder & Creative Director

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