We're full bore heading to our launch. And one of the biggest discussions we had was what is our company's voice. We decided that we're people, our customer are people, and we'll be approachable and treat them like the smart people they are.
Some people have a problem with this. Most default to buzz-speak. So I've come up with a scale here.
On the left side is "Market Speak". You know: "We are the leaders in widgets and our synergistic approach leverages current infrastructure....." On the other end is "Buy our stuff and you'll be driving a Bentley in 90 days. Let's hear from Joe who went from sleeping in cardboard boxes....."
I think we're all a lot better off moving to talking like people. But most of all make sure you find your voice and everyone you work with knows what it is.
Couldn't agree more.
I think that many people think of this as being "risky," because they're worried that people will find out that the writer/company is made of real... imperfect... flawed... talented... fun... but again... very real people.
I think it might be a carry over from the whole "infomercial speak," but it seems like many people have become convinced that unless their customer/client/reader thinks they are perfect... they won't buy/select/read them.
But... I'm thinking... and it seems like you're thinking the same thing... People want to connect with REAL PEOPLE... not commercials or people trying to act like perfect people.
That's when true connection happens... that's when true business alliances happen... that's when... well... that's when it get's fun (and many times profitable).
Thanks for putting this out there. And I'll remember to thank Mike Sansone from Converstations for sending me to your site.
Keep it real...
Posted by: Mitch Matthews | 04 December 2006 at 03:45 PM