Erin, you make a great point about the QUALITY of a product or service. That’s why I say that great marketing will never save a lousy one. No matter how shiny and snappy.

Jess and Tracy, I have to say I agree here. I’ve limited myself somewhat by choosing a narrower market to serve, and by making sure my clients align with my values as a business and a marketing pro. I just don’t think you can do a good job otherwise.

Chris, I’m so glad we’ve connected. And i’m with you. The amount of really bad, really misleading marketing and advertising out there is just amazing. Those of us who try to be The Good Guys can only strive to stand out from that crowd !

First-off, it’s awesome that you’ve taken off on your own to do what you love by your own rules! I arrived at your blog after you commented on the same post I did at Chris Brogan’s re: taking risk. I think your site looks great! I’d love to keep in touch to hear how things are going for you.

Regarding this post — I think consumers have a reason to be skeptical of marketing claims. As an engineer by degree and son of a former science teacher, I’ve been influenced throughout life to look for rational explanations behind unbelievable situations.

However, it’s easy to see with the attention (and $$$) given to unsubstantiated health claims for products like colon cleansers, for example, that consumers still aren’t skeptical ENOUGH.

I routinely have to shake my head in dismay when walking through a store at the sight of endless empty, even misleading, marketing drivel printed on packages today.

I think if the general public knew the actual extent to which they were being mislead, they would be shocked (as I am every day).