It’s May and that means it’s graduation season. Chances are you know someone who will be wearing a cap and gown this month. Whether it’s a celebration of that sweet milestone of moving from kindergarten to first grade or the commemoration of a hard-earned Ph.D. – graduations stir our emotions and inspire us to think about the future. As it turns out, commencement addresses not only provide advice and vision for those about to receive their diplomas, but can also inspire us onlookers. We thought this would be a good time to share some of our favorite commencement quotes:
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.”
– Eleanor Roosevelt, 1940, Valedictorian Speech at Wellesley College
To illustrate, consider Apple’s branding strategy. Their sleek product design, minimalist packaging, and memorable advertising campaigns all contribute to their brand identity of innovation, simplicity, and elegance. Every interaction with Apple products or marketing materials reinforces this image, solidifying their position in consumers’ minds.
In short, a brand is your business and how others perceive it, whereas branding is things you do to manage and influence your brand. To simplify it, think of yourself, for example. You have certain features that make you unique and help people recognize you (your brand). Then, you have a unique personality, values, likes/dislikes, etc. that helps you express yourself to the world (your branding).
Whether you have an existing brand that needs to be refreshed or are just getting started and need help establishing your brand, we’re here to help! Our web design/development and graphic design teams can create a brand that fits your goals, and our strategy and media team are here to help ensure that your branding efforts represent it properly.
“The best way to predict the future is to create it.“
– Peter Drucker, 1994, Claremount Graduate University
Known as the Father of Modern Management, Drucker published his first business book in 1954 and his leadership theories continue to shape business philosophy today. He reminds us of the importance of being pro-active in our organizations, thinking creatively and fostering innovation. By empowering the people in our organizations and collaborating to solve problems and invent solutions, we can create our own personal and organizational success.
“Don’t be afraid to give up the good, to go for the great.”
– John D. Rockefeller (We’re not sure when or where he said it, but we’re positive it has been used in a commencement address at some point.)
Measured in today’s dollars, Rockefeller was the richest man in U.S. history and the first American billionaire—so it’s appropriate for business leaders to consider his advice. We like this quote because we can all relate to how easy it is to stick with the status quo and how hard it can be to try something new—especially when it comes to our marketing practices. If we want to take our organizations to the next level, we have to get out of our comfort zones and take risks—calculated, well-researched risks are always preferable, but don’t ignore those gut feelings that tell you to go for it!
May is a great time to absorb the inspiration and promise that surrounds us. At Central States Marketing, we’re ready to help you see the potential of your organization through fresh eyes, to innovate, to create and to forge a new path to success. Let’s graduate to GREAT together!
