If you have ever worked on a year in review or annual report then you know what it takes to encapsulate many months and multiple departments in a digestible format that is both creative and informative. It is no small task, and you more than likely took to Google in search of “award-winning annual reports” for creative inspiration.
After developing a strategy, outline and gathering all of the images and information needed to craft a completed piece, you’ll be left with one more challenge – the cover messaging and design.
In the case of economic development, or in a for-profit organization, it takes a community of people to accomplish something of substance. This year I took that concept a bit further by incorporating an abstract pie chart with “You” comprising the largest share. This extends to businesses that grow the economy – partner organizations that help businesses relocate or expand in Georgia – and tax payers, employees and those that are just now considering Georgia as their next destination.
We are all Partners in Progress, right? Click the Year in Review covers above to learn more.
Having been on both the submission and judging side of marketing, advertising and public relations Request for Proposals – or RFPs – I have a little insight into winning the business.
A considerable amount of time, billable hours and money go into these submissions, and they are very competitive. It is imperative that you get it right.
But so many people get it wrong. I am consistently amazed when large, globally recognized, award-winning agencies fumble some basic fundamentals.
You want to win, right?
Here are a few tips:
Never let a junior employee complete an RFP on your behalf. It does a disservice to your brand, and it is a complete waste of time.
Before you begin the submission look very carefully at how the points are allocated. You will quickly ascertain what is most important.
Read the question carefully and make sure your answer specifically addresses what is being asked. Put yourself in the position of the judge who is reviewing countless other submissions. Did you get all the points that you could, or did you give some up by being vague or not following directions?
Be very specific. Do not answer a question with, we specialize in brand activation and storytelling. Instead, give me an example of how you elevated a client’s brand with a unique strategy that produced quantifiable results.
Make it very easy for the judge to find your supporting materials.
Be aware that your competitors are going to do whatever it takes to win. For example, don’t just mention doing a radio spot or video as one strategy. Actually put one together.
Do your research and then show it.
Bring a senior representative with you to the oral presentation.
Stand up when you present.
Leave the judges with your complete presentation.
And one bonus since we should always turn it up to 11. Be exceptionally strategic and creative. If you are not prepared to kick ass then pass.
Today was an exciting day at the Georgia State Capitol where we announced that Georgia has been named No. 1 state in U.S. for business by Site Selection magazine. Governor Deal along with senior executives from Home Depot, UPS and Gulfstream were there to kick it off and lay out the reasons why the state is well positioned. Commonalities across speakers were workforce, logistics and infrastructure. Read the article here.
I’ve produced and directed a number of videos in the past year. It is always rewarding when hard work pays off in the form of a satisfied company and/or client. It is even more satisfying when there is an award attached to the project.
This video required 3 separate shoots, scripting and infographic animation. The end result is a compelling story about diversifying risk and increasing profits through international trade. It is told from the perspective of the business owners. Blue Marble media shot and edited the piece.
This video is a culmination of interviews I conducted over the course of almost a year with many different brands in various industry sectors. It has been condensed down into a 2+ minute piece to convey Georgia’s economic development landscape. Blue Marble media shot and edited the piece.
For an upcoming Delta Sky issue I wanted to take a different approach to your typical B-to-B ad. For most metro Atlanta professionals there is more to Georgia than just ATL. On the weekends we are hitting the mountains, beaches, golf courses and soaking up that sweet southern charm and historical landmarks that no other state can replicate.
When a certain senior executive has a seat and pulls the Delta Sky from the front pocket for a flip, I hope this ad catches their attention for a moment or two and gives them pause. Should I relocate or expand to the state of Georgia? Quite clearly the answer is yes.
The intersection of business and lifestyle. Robert Payne | Seattle, Washington
