So of course while traveling I take an interest in the advertising and marketing. I had the privilege of visiting Jaemy Mae, my social media manager, in Bugaba, Panama. In the small town outside David, in Panama City, and everywhere we went I looked for examples of communication. Here are some of the pieces I noticed besides simply enjoying the amazing weather, ocean views, and spectacular food.
Panamanian Beer
I couldn’t help but question the legitimacy of Panama Light’s ad. I doubt a large percentage of the cerveza drinkers in Panama have seen snow yet the billboard is decorated with it. (Couldn’t help noticing this… I hail from Wisconsin where, this year, the number of days below zero degrees farenheit was 49, breaking the record. In Panama it was 95 every day.) Then again the silver bullet, Coors, advertises year round, it’s frosty cold refreshment. I’d like to hear your thoughts in the comments below.
Campaign Communication
Panama’s general election takes place this year in May. Everywhere I turned I saw campaign signs, posters, and billboards. What I did notice was the height of this signage. They were at the perfect height for commuters on buses. Not lower for the cars or people on foot, but high. This tells met that the candidates are looking for the average Jose heading to work each day. Interesante.
The Way the Fortune Cookie Crumbles
This was one of my favorite communication pieces I saw on my travels. “You will not get what you deserve. You will get what you negotiate.” The words come from Dr. Chester Karrass, the man who “wrote the book” on negotiating. These are the words on the ad for Karrass, a negotiation seminar company. The fortune cookie theme continues on their website; there was another that said, “You have more power than you think.” (Maybe they offer motivational, affirmative speaking?) The worldwide negotiation seminars promise interactive, experiential and non-confrontational, hands-on negotiating experience. But the ticker of dates on their website that scrolls like stock market numbers drives me crazy.
A Local with International Appeal
I feel like my ad reviews reveal who I am. I noticed a piece of home while away. Miller Lite, which employs 600 some people in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where I was born. This ad made me wonder who was being targeted. Is this for locals or tourists? It was in Panama City, which is more touristy.
Have thoughts on these ads? Have an ad you’d like me to review? Please leave a comment below.
Or email me terra(at)fletcherconsulting(dot)com.