Greenlight

It’s time to let go.

I get it. When you have a business, it’s basically like having a child. There are standards that you have set, and you’re constantly trying to do your best to make sure that your perfect, precious angel grows up to be everything he/she (read: you) want to be. I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way) that you just have to let go in order for your “baby” to reach its full potential.

Business owners, you need to do the same. It will be hard, but it’s for your brand’s own good.

Consider these points:

1. The first rule of social media is there are no rules. Yes, it can be as effective as an ad campaign, but it’s totally different. Social media is used to build relationships – and no relationship has ever blossomed as a result of formal language that sounds as so it was copied straight out of the iTunes Terms and Conditions. Set different brand standards than the ones you use in print and keep in mind the differences between the two mediums – you’ll get a lot more out of your online experience (and WAY more done) if you do.

2. As much as you love your company, we love advertising just as much. So, while we’re happy to admit that you’re the expert in widgets and cogs, frozen bananas or mind-reading, WE are experts in advertising. Which is why, when we give advice and suggest new courses of action (even if your friend at the frozen mango stand hasn’t heard about it), we’re probably right. So listen!

3. Your neighbor’s nephew is not a graphic designer. Yes, I know he drew this cool sketch on a napkin for you and that he has elementary Photoshop skills, but he is not qualified to make your logo – or anything for that matter. Design skill is one thing, but design in terms of advertising is quite another. We put a lot of thought into every aesthetic property of our work, and our only goal is to make you look good.

4. The work we do goes through an extraordinary process of checks and balances. We all look at it, and we all give our stamp of approval – if not, you don’t see it. SO, there’s no need to ask twenty of your closest friends and your mom what they think, you’ll end up with a diluted and unfocused message. The truth is that nothing will please everyone. And nothing will ever please your mother.

I don’t mean to sound petty – really, I TOTALLY understand how you feel. Relinquishing your brand (something you’ve worked so hard to mold) can be a severe source of anxiety. But, you’re lucky – you have greenlight, and we have your back. Your brand is safe with us – now get outta here so we can get you business!