Thursday, August 21, 2008

Microsoft and the courting of Jerry Seinfeld


So, I just read that Microsoft is hiring Jerry Seinfeld to pitch their products. Although I'm a devoted Seinfeld fan and I love the show (even in syndication), I find it odd that Microsoft would hire someone who's past their prime, especially since they are trying to "be cool" like Google and Apple. It continues to reinforce the brand image that Microsoft is still living in the 1990's.

Although it might have some pull with older demographics, if Microsoft is truly trying to reinvent their brand they should look elsewhere. When I was in college, I learned about a thing called Q-report that rated a person's popularity. Here is a sample of some other people they could've used that would have been a better spend for their $10 million:

1) That kid from High School Musical. All he'd have to do is dance a bit and say the word "Vista" and you'd have millions of 18-24 aged girls lined up at Best Buy.

2) Simon Cowell. He could call the spots, "America's Idle." At least I'm idle for about 20 minutes every morning when I turn on my Vista machine. (Can someone tell me how to speed this thing up???)

3) Elvis. He's dead. 'Nuf said.
4) Fred Flintstone. Ok, a bit cliche... I won't say anything more about dinosaurs.

5) Gilligan. Because you need a professor, a skipper and a millionaire just to keep the machines running.

So, Mr. Seinfeld, enjoy your money. I hope the gig with Microsoft works out well for you. But hey, if you look closely at that picture above, am I mistaken or is that a Mac in your apartment?

Wednesday, August 13, 2008

Business Card Envy



Here are some great business card designs I stumbled upon. Click Here. My favorite? The pop-up cards (#4). Although, who wouldn't like a tasty snack like a peanut with your phone number on it... or is it your fortune?