The competitor congratulated the organizers then proceeded to advertise their own conference happening only a few weeks from now. Why would the organizers allow its competition to advertise at its closing ceremony? After all, the organizers don’t need any more delegates –they’ve just had their conference. The competition, on the other hand, can only benefit from this advertisement as their conference is soon approaching.

Marketing amongst those conferences with smaller attendance sizes was common. However, conferences within 3 weeks of each other, as in the case I mentioned, are considered in the hot zone and competing for the same delegates. In the past, conferences in the hot zone, would absolutely avoid marketing for each other much less advertise at the other’s closing ceremony. The idea behind disallowing your main competitor from advertising at your conference is that you are exposing your own delegate base to their conference allowing them to potentially “steal” from your base in the future. Secondly, since the rival conference happens after your conference, they already have the advantage of observing your conference and adjusting their own accordingly. Thirdly, you would prefer your delegates to remember how great your conference was, not how great your competitor’s conference is going to be.

After the closing ceremony, I approached one of the organizers and asked why they would let their main competition advertise right then and there. The organizer told me that they were making a tradeoff between current consumption for future consumption. What was so surprising was that I learned the competition was actually one of the organizer’s sponsors.

The organizers received sponsorship money while their rivals gained more potential delegates.

Keep in mind that the two conferences are within three weeks of each other meaning that registration for the main competitor is already considered a “Late Registration” thus a higher delegate registration price.

In order for this to be considered a profitable investment for the main competitor, they must receive enough delegates so that the money these delegates pay is greater than the sponsorship money invested. Since the main competitor’s conference is still within a few weeks, I do not know whether this decision will be a financially successful one. But there is another dimension to this trade off that I think is important. By being a sponsor, the main competitor increased awareness of their own conference and was able to make a case for their brand to an audience that normally only attends one conference.

What would you have done if you were the organizers or the competition? Do you think both these conference achieved the goal of increasing their delegate size for future conferences?

You’ve heard of the Oscars, the Golden Globes, and the Grammys. Here comes the Student Marketing Association’s own award event: the Stevies!

This is SMA’s first ever member appreciation night! This event includes a three course meal, a special performance, and of course, an awards ceremony to recognize the hard-working SMA members and executives!

Date: Thursday, March 29, 2012
Venue: V Lounge, Yaletown’s only vodka lounge
Time: 7:00PM (6:30 Registration)
Dress Code: Semi-Formal
Ticket Price: $25

Tickets will be sold at our booth in WMC, across from Tim Hortons, starting March 12th! Get your tickets fast, as there are limited spots!

Come out and join us for an amazing night of entertaining performances and awards.

Can you imagine Facebook users click the “Like” button about 3 billion times a day? Imagine how much more that would be if all products or services did what Diesel was doing? What if you were able to start “liking” things that you came across in your everyday life?

What one Diesel store has done is integrate Quick Response (QR) codes with the products in their store in Madrid, Spain. By scanning a QR code with one’s smartphone the user will be prompted to select a product from a list. After selecting the product a wall post is constructed on the user’s wall containing a link, an image of the product, as well as a prearranged write-up that details what you “liked” and the location of the store where the code was scanned. Sounds neat, eh?

It seems that Diesel is attempting to directly connect a social media experience to real life, but how effective is this? The success of this campaign for Diesel’s store in Madrid will probably determine whether they decide to implement this strategy to their other stores located around the globe. Overall the response online has been mixed. Bloggers and YouTube users have taken sides on whether this implementation provides any value to users or whether this practice would lead to success.

Some of the positive feedback this campaign/practice received include:

•Execution of real life “liking” is easy to use
•Promotes sharing of discovered products
o Online word-of-mouth marketing
•Further encourages everyday Facebook interactions that most users are savvy to taking part in

Some critiques this campaign/practice received includes:

•Besides the real life aspect, it doesn’t actually do anything new with social media
•Some users find no value doing something in real life that they can already do online
•It actually doesn’t promote discussion ; “liking” on Facebook is – for the most part – a passive mode of interaction

The way I see it, even if just a small portion of customers take part in this practice, it will still end up reaching the top stories feeds of a multitude of users. Even today, word of mouth is considered one of the most powerful forms of marketing, which seems to be essentially what this campaign is aiming for.

So what do you think? Can you see this becoming something that more brands will begin to adapt?

Source: 1

Life after university can be quite ominous for students looking for jobs. It is not surprising then that many of them are active in school clubs and volunteering. Although resume building is imperative for a student, networking is just as important. A lot of clubs on campus create events to give opportunities for students to network with workplace professionals. According to Forbes, people are making mistakes that they do not know when networking, which confirms why there are no opportunities coming forth.

1. Mistake #1 is that people boast too much about themselves. It is important to listen and to show interests to the professional that you are networking with. It’s okay to talk about yourself and your accomplishments, but be wary of going overboard.
2. Mistake #2 is that people expect to get a job. Instead of expecting, you should work for it by volunteering your time. It also helps create a trusting, respectful relationship between you and the professional.
3. Mistake #3 is very simple, yet a majority of people forgets to do. It is important to have manners by saying “thank you,” because it helps conclude your first impression and reputation.
4. Mistake #4 is neglecting to follow up. The whole aspect of networking is to form relationships with professionals. Even if you think that they do not remember about you, it doesn’t hurt to send an email to reiterate your conversation and to also thank him/her for their time.

Although we may never be able to fix all our mistakes when networking, it is good to be aware of them so that we can learn to polish our skills the next time we attend an event.

Credit: http://www.forbes.com/sites/dailymuse/2011/09/30/4-networking-mistakes-you-dont-know-youre-making

Written by SMA Public Relations

Social Media: The New PR provides an opportunity to bring students and social media experts together to discuss and share ideas. Our featured speakers will be talking to students about utilizing social media in public relations and marketing strategies.

Richard Loat, who was able to garner success and momentum for his charitable event, “Five Hole for Food”, through the effective use of social media.

Dixon Tam, Simon Fraser University’s PR director will be discussing the rise of Twitter as an optimal tool for networking and communication.

Rachel Thexton, Dunn PR’s Associate Partner  will be our third speaker; she has worked in public relations for seven years, and her experience includes strategic communications for clients such as Delta Hotels and Resorts, KPMG, CBC Television, and Dairy Queen Canada.

Students will learn about the types of social media trends and tools that will help them create and plan campaigns that stand out professionally.

The event will start at 5:30pm on January 12th at SFU Burnaby.

Tickets are $3 for SMA executives and Social Media Network members. General admissions in $5. You can purchase your ticket via paypal link below. Get your tickets asap as seating will be limited!

Registration Type

SMA Member $3.00 CAD SMN Member $3.00 CAD Other $5.00 CAD

Are you a member of SMA or SMN?

SMA SMN Both Neither

Name

Email

Faculty

This Christmas, did you prepare memorable presents for your loved ones? Did you think of those who are less fortunate, less loved, to whom one small gift will mean the world?

This Christmas, the organizers of “A Change for Christmas” sincerely invites the SFU community to come together and show homeless youth in Vancouver that the spirit of giving for Christmas does not end where your hands can reach, but where your love can reach. Come one, come all, come spread the joy of giving with a donation of $2, $5, or more to Covenant House, a non-profit organization dedicated to helping homeless youth. Let us bring the warmest Christmas of all to homeless youth in Vancouver!

On behalf of Covenant House and SFU Student Marketing Association, the organizers of “A Change for Christmas” sincerely appreciate all amounts donated to the cause at Covenant House! May your love travel great distances to the awaiting hearts of homeless youth this Christmas!

We all win:
Your contribution and love will not only bring  change to the lives of homeless youth, but will also enter you into a draw to win prizes that total up to $75, courtesy of Tim Horton’s and Earls.

Why does it matter?
Your collective donations are what funds shelter, food, clothing and counselling to over 1,400 young people each year. Covenant House delivers this assistance through core programs comprised of the Crisis Shelter Program that runs a shelter with 54 beds and operational 24 hours a day, the Community Support Services Program that includes street outreach and a daily drop-in program, and the Rights of Passage Program that provides a 6-24 months transitional living program that provides supported living.

For us youth, it is understandable that it can sometimes be hard to empathize with a group and a way of life that is unfamiliar to us—however that is only because we are blessed with more fortunate conditions. For homeless youth defined as young people aged 16 – 24 who fled physical, emotional and/or sexual abuse, forced from their homes or aged out of foster care , Covenant House is the only source of help for our peers who often have no one else.

To Donate:

Follow Covenant House!
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Covenant-House-Vancouver/107216449311352
https://twitter.com/CovenantHouseBC
http://www.covenanthousebc.org/blog

For more information:
See lives that Covenant House has touched:  http://youtu.be/_QPZRUxJuII
An inspiring video about what change your dollar can bring: http://youtu.be/9DXL9vIUbWg
Visit Covenant House: http://www.covenanthousebc.org

One of the most talked about restaurants, Inamo in London, has taken high-tech dining to another level. Inamo is a modern eatery that allows diners to change their atmosphere, order food & drinks, book a cab and play games all with a few swift touches of their table top. Plus the food is really good! The place is a pioneering Oriental fusion restaurant and bar where the control of the dining experience is placed firmly in your hands. The core of Inamo is their interactive ordering system. Diners place orders from an illustrated food and drinks menu projected on to their table surface.

Do you think about this growing trend? Will it possibly replace the need for servers in the future? Comment below!

Written by SMA Public Relations

Now in its twenty second consecutive year, Marketers’ Night is SMA’s largest and most anticipated event of the year. This tremendously successful event has provided the opportunity for members of the BC business community and marketing students to meet and interact in an informal environment. It allows the marketers of today to meet with the marketers of tomorrow.

Tickets:
$20 for Early Bird until Nov. 11
$23 for Students and Professionals
* Buy tickets from the SMA booth across from Tim Hortons, 2nd floor WMX or through Paypal at www.marketersnight.com

Dress Code:
Business Casual

Food & Refreshments:
Light snacks will be provided. We will also have a cash bar.

Note: Registration & Reception begins at: 5:30P.M.

This year’s theme revolves around food marketing. The scope of the topic this year includes the changing landscape of social media on food marketing, the impact of Google+, branding, customer service, and more. Come meet with a diverse range of professionals engaged in the marketing and food industries.

This year’s speakers include:

• Chris Breikks, President at 6S Marketing Inc.
• Richard Wolak, Editor & Founder at VancouverFoodster.com
• Dennis Pang, Founder & Marketing Strategist at Popcorn
• Sepy Bazzazi, Assistant Marketing Manager at Earls Restaurants

Come out for an opportunity for students and industry professionals to network and mingle. We hope that you share your passion for marketing and food with us on November 17th, 2011!

This is a great opportunity to:

• Expand your network: develop new relationships with marketing students and professionals in a relaxed environment.
• Learn from industry leaders: find out about the careers and latest trends in food marketing from industry professionals.
• Enjoy the company of over 250 people at the elegant Hidden Tasting Bar & Social Lounge located at the Westin Grand in the heart of Downtown Vancouver.

For more information, please visit www.marketersnight.com or email:
Cindy Cheng at chc35@sfu.ca or Cecilia Kim at csk1@sfu.ca
This year, we will be supporting the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society (GVFBS) by holding a raffle draw during the event! We have many prizes available, including coffee chats with our speakers! With your help, we have the potential to contribute to those who need it the most.

When registering for the event in-person, or on the day of the event, you can donate TWO cans of food in exchange for a raffle ticket. You may also purchase raffle tickets on the night of Marketers’ Night. If you are interested in more information, please visit www.marketersnight.com
We would also like to extend a big THANK-YOU to all of our Creative Friends and Sponsors!

• Simon Fraser Student Society (www.sfss.ca) -
• SFU Student Engagement Office -
• Christopher Hindle Marketing – Silver Sponsor
• Popcorn (www.gopopcorn.ca) – Silver Sponsor
• Investors Group (www.investorsgroup.com) – Silver Sponsor
• Midam Rice Cake Cafe (www.midam.ca) – Bronze Sponsor
• Dan-D Pak (www.dan-d-pak.com) – In-Kind Sponsor
• Top Table (www.toptable.ca/) – In-Kind Sponsor
• Still Creek Press (www.stillcreekpress.com)- Printing Sponsor

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Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/SFU_MN
Visit our website: www.marketersnight.com

“SoLoMo” is a social-mobile trend and is a portmanteau of Social, Local and Mobile media. It describes the process of how “Mobile allows you to be active at any Location and at the same time to be connected to your entire Social graph, or network and their opinions, advice and buying power” (theinnovizer.com). This term originated from check-in social media sites such as FourSquare and is now possible on Facebook and Google. Instead of searching for things, deals and information are “pushed” to you based on your activity and check-ins, such as things that are near by or supposedly relevant to your interests.The integration of the user’s social networks are extremely crucial to this usage. This new phenomenon could prove to be beneficial to companies or marketing campaigns as information gets spread faster and covers a larger distance. However, “bad” campaigns as well as blunders also receive this same benefit.

The way I see it, SoLoMo seems like a database of consumer collected statistics and their buying habits. It may be difficult to sort through, but this information is helpful to companies.

How important do you think the use of mobile devices is towards marketing? Is something missing from the “SoLoMo” structure?

credit: http://theinnovizer.wordpress.com/solomo/

A Blog Post written by SMA Public Relations Committee

Hey SMAers,

Have you ever wondered what agencies mean when they say that they are “idea-driven?” Well the Corporate Relations committee has got something special for you!

CR Speaker Session
“Leading With Ideas”

When: Monday, October 24^th, 4:30-6:00pm
Where: WMC 2532
Dress Code: Business Casual
Cost: Free! Complimentary appetizers provided

We’re kicking off the fall semester with an exciting presentation from Thomas Stringham, President and Creative Director at Hot Tomali Communications Inc. Thomas will be coming to SFU to talk about the approaches used within his agency to ensure that he cultures innovative ideas, rather than stifle them. This presentation will cover everything from keeping an open-mind in brainstorming, avoiding “idea killers” and will be looking at the ways you can avoid prescriptive strategies when developing your briefing materials and project plans.

More about Thomas Stringham: As the founding president and creative director of Hot Tomali, Thomas Stringham has spent the last 13 years nurturing his Vancouver-based agency into an internationally acclaimed integrated marketing shop. In addition to being named Advertising Age’s International Small Agency of the Year in 2010, Thomas’ work for clients such as 7-Eleven, Electronic Arts, and the International Dyslexia Association has been recognized by top-tier award competitions such as the Cannes International Advertising Festival, London International Advertising Festival, the Advertising & Design Club, and Applied Arts.

Interested in attending? Space may be limited! Please RVSP to reserve your spot by emailing Thao at tnnguyen@sfu.ca by Saturday, October 22nd.