Z Blog

Picture this scenario: You’re sitting at your desk, trying to come up with an idea, design or even just the right word to say, then the ever-dreaded creative block enters. All of a sudden, this overwhelming need for activity hits you! A need to stimulate your brain in the hopes of coming up with a solution. In a world where multi-tasking and productivity is praised, and the idea of getting it all done as quick as possible is ideal, it has become hard to appreciate and allow ourselves to take that break we need. When we are taking those breaks, most of the time we...

With so much noise out there, it is crucial to keep brand conversations clear and brief. If a message isn’t relatable and pertinent, chances are the audience is already on to the next site, ad or store. The concept of “Chekhov’s Gun” states that in a dramatic environment, all details should be necessary and all extra “stuff” should be removed. The exact quote is akin to “One must never place a loaded rifle on stage if it isn’t going to go off.” A similar concept I am proposing is this: If you show me a fiddle, you better know how to play the thing. This...

As I watch my husband, a former police canine handler and trainer, work with our dogs, I am struck by the simplicity and obvious lessons to be learned. Every audience -- whether they are customers, employees or dogs -- is motivated by rewards. The key to affecting change is to make sure to reward the behavior you want. My 8-year-old bloodhound/lab mix LOVES to go for a walk. From the moment I would lace up my shoes and put on a baseball cap, he started leaping and twirling in the air, knowing it was time to head outside. This was all very cute and adorable...

Consumer trends have markets moving from global brands with standardized processes to small artisanal brands that are hand crafted out of local culture. The global homogenizing of culture overall has increased the need for authentic identities and fueled a resurfacing of regional heritage. The desire for authenticity and truth have risen to the forefront of consumer needs, as well as the critical need for innovation. In today's market, it will take addressing each of these needs to truly differentiate a brand and to form meaningful connections with consumers. But what is authentic? And where do we find truth? With large corporate brands using meaningless product...

We all can get stressed at our job, but the important thing to remember is not to let this frustration overcome you. These tips may help when you feel a wave of frustration start to rise up: ###Learn what your triggers are Do you start to panic when surprised? Does the idea of presenting an idea to a client make your heart race? Are you unable to hear yourself think when you’re in a loud environment? It’s important to analyze and understand what your triggers are to help prevent a potential stressful situation. ###Understand the point of view of others We are all shaped by...

Almost 15 years out of college, I’ve been fortunate enough to establish some solid experience in our industry. After multiple positions and lots of hard work, I’m in a place in my career where I’m starting to offer advice to those just starting out. Here are a few short thoughts I’ve learned from experience building my career’s foundation: ###Adapt to true definitions of leadership It isn’t a stretch to say that everyone who is career-minded wants to exhibit leadership. The problem for young professionals is they’re drawing on a relatively limited pool of examples of great leadership. For those new to flexing their leadership chops,...

If you’re from any where in the Midwest to the East Coast, you’ve had quite the winter this year. Born and raised in Cincinnati, I can’t remember a time where it snowed so much and stuck around for so long (I wasn’t around yet during the legendary winter of 1977.) It’s been a long three months filled with snow days, traffic jams and layers upon layers, but daylight savings time this past weekend seemed to have made the official switch! While the point of daylight savings time has been debated for years, and many people have strong opinions about it, I try to see the...

Strategy often gets overlooked in the writing process, and even sometimes in the dissemination process, as we trip over our feet getting out the door to the newest and shiniest social trend or tool. Spending time getting, and planning, the big picture will give you stronger content and have a more powerful impact. Here are three ways to do just that: ###Know your audience This includes external and internal audiences. Being able to successfully define your audience can make all the difference. What are your client’s business goals? What does your client want from the project? Most importantly: What does your audience care about? ###Create...

As a graphic designer, I pull my inspiration from anywhere and everywhere, but I am especially inspired by the film industry and observing trends within our culture. Naturally, the Oscars are a big event for me. I love to see great films, and the people behind making them, appreciated in the national spotlight. It’s also amazing to watch celebrities and normal “behind-the-scenes” people rub elbows, sharing their personal insights in the spotlight. I was inspired by many things from the 2015 Oscars, but three major points stood out to me as a graphic designer: ###Wes Anderson’s *The Grand Budapest Hotel* First of all, let’s just...

I had the opportunity to speak at the Business Courier Biz Women Event last Friday. I was asked to share my story and “lessons learned” from being in the business world and leading a business over the last 25 years. Here are my top 10 “lessons learned:” 1. ####Nothing is permanent. Stuck in analysis paralysis? Sometimes it is easier to make a big decision, big career move, etc., if you realize it doesn’t have to last forever. If something is not working, you can change it. If it turns out you don’t like a new job, you can start looking for a new one. You...