We heard some encouraging news.

Several of the owners and executives present reported that the 4th quarter of 2009 showed distinctly better results than the rest of that wretched year. (Henceforth known as the year which shall not be named!)

Better yet, the thaw seems to have some legs as many see continued improvement as 2010 comes out of the gate.

Everything from dancing babies to the Obama girls made its way across millions of screens across the globe.  And the word viral went from an adjective to a noun.  As in, “it went viral.”

Now everyone tries to figure out that one elusive quality that make their message go viral.  But unless you can “force” viral on people with a big bucks campaign, then for most of us, chasing viral is like catching lightning in a bottle.

In 2010, go back to the original viral.  Infect people.  Viral will still work for you, but it will start with a few small sparks here and there – not the sweeping brushfire everyone wants.

If your message and methods are infectious…then look for patient zero.

Posted by: Steve Banis

One thing I really want to know is what makes people tick after 18+ months of this oppressive economy.

So I spent a couple of hours in Borders and picked up a few books to start with.  The one I started this morning already has my mind reeling.  And I’ve only read the introduction.

Here’s why I’m a little freaked:

Greed (money, offers of discounts or “free” things, etc.) may actually interfere with getting a target to do what you want them to do.

Again.  Paying Money or giving something for Free won’t work.

As I find out more I’ll keep you in the loop.  Stay tuned.

Posted by: Steve Banis