iMedia Connection: Consumer Strategies

Mastering the mix for social media

Learn new strategies for social media in video, augmented reality, and mobile marketing. Get the scoop on new marketing opportunities in these podcasts from the iMedia Breakthrough Summit in Henderson, Nev.

How to protect your URL in a social world

URL providers like tr.im and TinyURL provide a valuable service, but are they short-changing your brand? Here's why you should consider owning your own short URLs.

The social media golden rule

In the world of social media, one strategy will always ring true: Engage with your customers as you would have your vendors engage with you. See how this principle can shine through in your campaigns.

4 steps for creating usable social media

Launching social media campaigns is easy, but getting consumers to interact with your brand is a completely different challenge. Try employing these tactics.

Anticipating consumer desire with your site search

The typical online search is too basic for automotive consumers who know exactly what they need. Take a look at how you can revamp your online auto sales.

When "funny" goes right (and wrong) for a brand

Humor can be an advertiser's best weapon, but when a joke goes bad, it can often ruin a campaign. Here's why it pays to make sure users laugh with, not at, your brand.

Can digital rebuild trust in financial services?

Can the financial sector bounce back in the public eye? See how these embattled companies can leverage social tools to regain trust while boosting branding.

8 tips for B2B social media

A lack of understanding is holding many businesses back from leveraging the power of social media. Find out how to clear the confusion.

5 ways to ignite a social media frenzy

Few marketing vehicles can move your message like word of mouth. See how Ford, Pepperidge Farm, Starbucks, and other leading brands gave consumers something to talk about.

Web video's fastest growing market

In today's New Media Minute, Daisy Whitney outlines the overwhelming growth of web video among Spanish-language networks.

Social media success: 3 absolute musts

See why transparency, authenticity, and credibility aren't just social media catchphrases -- they're vital concepts that some companies employ better than others.

4 reasons to shut up on Twitter

The use of Twitter can become an addiction for a brand, but sometimes it's best to just say "no." Check out these instances in which microblogging can do more harm than good.

Social media's shining marketing moments

Take a look at some unique opportunities advertisers were given to engage with users on MySpace, LinkedIn, LiveJournal, and other social community sites.

How to avoid getting sucked into social hype

Marketers are stuggling to keep their brands relevant in tougher times. In this episode of Marketing Obsessions with Kevin Lee, PR specialist Peter Shankman talks about the dangers of letting your public relations slip with the economy.

Putting the "social" back in social media

With all the buzz surrounding social media, it is important to remember that the core principles behind engaging with customers never change. Here's why.

A second chance to connect with consumers

The data you already have can help you trigger and launch customized campaigns that will keep customers coming back. Find out how to get started.

Case studies: The value of online fandom

The tools may be better, but the basic principles of social media remain the same. Hear about some updated techniques for listening, responding, empowering, and rewarding loyal supporters of your brand.

Does pay-per-tweet fit your brand's profile?

Traditional display is being replaced by more active methods like sponsored conversations. Take a look at how this emerging marketing model works.

What will be the heir to the Twitter throne?

What's next on the horizon for big digital breakthroughs? The staff at IPG's Emerging Media Lab offers its best bets for social media success.

Smutty campaigns that wouldn't fly

Sexuality, race, religion -- the fine lines that marketers must walk on these topics shift depending on where you are. Get educated on the cultural differences you need to respect.

10 social media strategies from top brands

Corporations like GE, Best Buy, and Cisco are all succeeding with social media. Discover what they've learned and how to apply it to your own endeavors.

10 essential Twitter apps for marketers

If you're using Twitter in your marketing strategies, you'll want to learn about these add-ons that marketers are saying they can't live without.

5 fresh Facebook apps

When done right, Facebook applications represent the ultimate in consumer engagement. Meet the brands that are taking full advantage of this opportunity.

A step-by-step plan for finding your influentials

Influence is the new online currency, but defining it -- and its true value -- is a complex task. Use this practical guide to find and leverage the best voices for your brand.

Find a social media strategy that works for you

Is it better to build a page on Facebook or develop a customized, branded social network? Examine the pros and cons of each.

First aid for bad buzz

Getting hammered in social media and on blogs? Find out how you can patch the relationship before your brand is permanently scarred.

Facebook's frighteningly impressive ad potential

The social network has created one of the most powerful and elegant advertising tools ever seen. Take a lesson from these marketers who have learned how to tap into the opportunity.

How to measure your social media campaign's impact

It's not enough to develop a social media marketing strategy -- you have to be able to gauge your level of success. Here are the basic steps your measurement program should include.

4 tools for easier social media management

Convinced there aren't enough hours in the day to stay on top of everything related to social media? Try these handy tools that streamline the process.

Twitter's hidden marketing superpowers

There's more to Twitter than meets the eye. Is your brand taking advantage of some of the platform's lesser-known marketing opportunities?

6 ways to prepare your website for new markets

Launching an international version of your website isn't as simple as merely translating the content. Here are some things to keep in mind as you expand your reach.

5 rules for marketing in niche social networks

If you're tired of having your brand's voice muffled in the great wide world of social media, consider adopting a niche strategy. Here are some tips you'll need to succeed.

The gift that Facebook gives to your brand

Virtual goods present a unique marketing opportunity, helping users to personalize their social network pages with your brand in mind. Find out how they can work for you.

6 social media platforms at a glance

Developing a successful social media strategy requires a clear understanding of the technology, users, opportunities, and challenges. This essential checklist will help you evaluate which channels are appropriate for your marketing efforts.

Why social media is safer than you think

Even in these turbulent times, not all new media spending needs to be put on hold. Here's why social media should be part of a secure and sound defensive strategy.

Social media marketing gets some love

The ACPL funnel leaves a lot to be desired in the world of social media. Take a look at a new model that puts two-way communication back into the equation.

10 practical tips for Facebook fan pages

Social media is a two-way conversation, and you need to be present and active to make it work. Follow this guide to fostering more loyal fans.

Social media agencies to watch

There's no shortage of so-called social media experts, but not all have the know-how you need. Here's a look at a few agencies you might want to poke, friend, or even hire.

5 brands that added value to communities

If you are looking to reach out and connect with your brand's pre-existing fans and social groups, take a tip from these successful approaches.

Tips for evicting Facebook cybersquatters

In the world of social media, squatters are an ever-present nuisance. If someone has stolen your brand identity on Facebook, follow these tips to take it back.

5 reasons Twitter simply doesn't matter

Is Twitter the most powerful communications platform to ever emerge? Or an unwieldy, untargeted time-suck for the narcissistic? Here are a few reasons it could be considered the latter.

3 steps to viralizing your content

If you think your branded content deserves the limelight, find out how to give it the best possible chance to shine.

8 digital pros worth following on Twitter

Lost in a sea of garbled tweets? Find out who's worth following and why. After all, on Twitter, you're only as good as the people you follow.

Pharma marketing more "social" than ever

A recent article in Ad Age deemphasized the role of social media in pharmaceutical marketing. Here's why the author is just plain wrong.

5 social media campaign killers

Social media success requires a good deal of trial and error. But there are some clear-cut paths to embarrassment that you need to avoid. Here they are.

How to create a social media department

Social media is the hottest trend in interactive, and brands want to take advantage right now. If you're thinking about taking the plunge, here's what you'll need.

How to take ad personalization beyond BT

The marketing dream of true one-to-one relationships with consumers has yet to be realized. Here's what personalized media can do that behavioral targeting can't.

8 social media sins to avoid

For every social media success story, there are dozens of failures. Here's a look at the most common mistakes that turn companies anti-social in a social world.

Will Twitter prevail where others failed?

While it's important to consider Twitter's current benefits, it is also relevant to think about its likely trajectories. As web history shows us, not all glittering online media trends can be turned into marketing gold.

6 ways to dispel fear and loathing of social media

With the current hype around social media's role in the marketing mix, it often remains an important tactic in search of a strategic objective. Here's how to get past that.

The keys to managing your Twitter talent

You've got a Twitter account, but now what? Stick to this strategy to ensure your Twitterers are representing your brand correctly and getting the most out of microblogging.

5 social media strategies you need

Your brand is going social, whether you like it or not. Here's how you can embrace social media rather than being dragged in reluctantly.

What your audience is looking for in a widget

Different widgets are suited for different environments and consumer needs. Find out why social widgets are your best bet for reaching users.

Build a better bond with bloggers

Follow these tips to make the sponsored-conversation equation pay off for your brand.

5 essentials for social media marketing

Social media marketing can increase brand awareness and sales for your business. But it takes real work to be successful. Follow these steps to get in the game.

How to score the coveted retweet

Retweets beget more followers who are likely to match the demographic you are seeking. Here's how you can increase your chances of getting passed along, while staying true to your brand.

9 keys to the perfect corporate blog

Simply having a company blog might have set your marketing apart a few years back, but today brand blogs are a necessity. The question is, how do you make them worthwhile for your users?

Why Twitter can do more harm than good

Does your boss or client think Twitter is the only thing that matters? Tell them to think again. If time and resources are at a premium, Twitter can actually hurt your brand.

Why agencies' social media use doesn't matter

Here's why agencies shouldn't be picked on for not using particular social media tactics themselves, and why Ad Age has it all wrong.

5 mistakes to avoid when launching a viral campaign

With the abundance of rich media composition and creation tools, here's how brands can capture mindshare with less effort and budget spend than ever before.

5 outstanding corporate blogs

A good corporate blog is one that helps to achieve the broader goals of the organization. Here are examples of companies that found success with their strategies.

Surefire steps to SEO success abroad

A simple word-for-word translation of your English-language site won't do your brand any SEO justice. Here are five easy steps that will help your international push exceed expectations.

Peter Guber's magic formula for marketing success

How do you persuade audiences to "follow your parade"? Learn how to narrate your offering into a resonant, actionable, and memorable story.

4 hot social media applications for internal use

Is your team missing valuable opportunities to share industry knowledge with each other? Communicating more efficiently is easier than you might expect with these tools.

Key tools for tracking online trends

Staying ahead of the curve isn't easy. But for marketers, the ability to spot trends is more important than ever. Find out what tools and tactics your peers use to stay current.

Social media: How to separate hype from utility

Buzz is rarely an undesirable commodity, but given the increasing need to target marketing activity where it will be most effective, can embracing any new social media trend guarantee a successful campaign?

Survival strategies for behavioral marketers

Behavioral targeting can enhance online advertising, but consumers must feel safe with regard to their information. Here's how marketers can demonstrate their responsibility.

Where to find your free focus group

Are you missing out on an opportunity to engage your target consumers? Illustrating findings from a recent industry study, JCPenney and adidas show you how it's done.

How to succeed across the social media spectrum

Good marketing relies on consistent brand messaging, but social media requires you to place your message in a consumer's hands. Find out how to strike the right balance.

What a behavioral opt-in world looks like

If legislators have their way, our industry could face a grim future. Find out what could happen if we don't start working with lawmakers on targeting requirements.

Why Twitter will soon become obsolete

No matter what you've heard, Twitter is not the final answer to social media marketing. Here's why marketers who are investing heavily in this microblogging platform need to find wiser ways to spend their time and money.

How to market your social media presence

You may be tweeting, blogging, and friending consumers like crazy, but are you enabling your targets to find and follow you everywhere? Find out how to advertise and cross-pollinate your social media outreach.

5 reasons why it pays to shorten your URLs

Microblogging doesn't leave much room for your domain name in links, but the payoff of using a URL shortener is worth the sacrifice. Find out more about the marketing opportunities a smaller link provides.

Why B2B companies need social media too

B2B companies need to be personable, responsible, and communicative. Here's why they can't afford to neglect blogs, LinkedIn, Twitter, and other social channels.

Empower your social media users

Does your campaign stem from the user? Are you focused on the right metrics from the start? Find out how to get the most from your program with these tips.

How to use Twitter to mitigate a crisis

Twitter is a great place to connect with your customers, as well as an effective channel for responding to a marketing crisis. Here's how some brands handled a few sticky situations -- in 140 characters or less.

Why brands should rethink partnerships with bloggers

Bloggers and the brands they sometimes represent have been caught in the FTC's crosshairs. Here are a few examples that highlight just how convoluted this battle might become.

Twitter brand smackdown: The winners and losers

Check out these sets of competitors and see which are leveraging the microblogging platform to its utmost potential.

9 tips for dealing with social media enemies

Social media provides an instant platform for anyone -- including opponents of your brand. Learn how to handle them -- and hopefully win them over -- by following sound advice from our experts.

Social media: Whose job is it anyway?

In the online world, all media is quickly becoming social. But which part of your team should be responsible for handling it? Six industry leaders share their opinions.

Social media vs. social responsibility

There is a new obligation now that social media has transferred ownership of brands to consumers: If we like something, we need to speak up.

Where do we draw the line on consumer profiling?

Is it time for marketers and data companies to consider another standard for what data can be collected on consumers? Here's how to avoid another backlash.

5 Twitter marketing experiments

Whether it's a tax return giant or a gourmet taco truck, companies are finding ways to leverage the popular microblogging tool with these innovative business approaches.

9 tips to find your social sweet spot

The endorsements social network marketing provides are more powerful than plain impressions, but you can damage your brand with too much of a good thing. Learn how to strike the right balance.

Launch an awesome Facebook app in 10 easy steps

Over the past two years, brands have launched countless Facebook applications, with varying degrees of success. If you're still testing the waters, here are the tips you need to keep in mind.

How to maximize a brand's social relevance

Well-targeted messaging and content can move consumers from superficial contact with brands to deeper engagement. See why traditional and digital are irrevocably tied when trying to reach this goal.

Getting to the bottom of marketing inspiration

Good storytelling can lead to more successful social interactions with your customers. See how Levi's, FedEx, and others are using this technique to create marketing that has meaning.

The targeting strategy you can't afford to ignore

Looking for increased impact with a reduced budget? A combination of targeting approaches can boost purchase intent by 45 percent while doubling positive brand perception.

Why some summer movie campaigns fail to engage

Summer films present a make-it-or-break-it point for many studios that have gambled big dollars on their latest creative endeavors. Why do they so often miss the mark?

4 signs you're a social media failure

Check out these snafus made by Jenny Craig, Weight Watchers, Royal Caribbean, Skittles, and others, and see how similar situations could be turned into successes for your brand.

Key objectives for a killer social media play

With clear guidelines from brands, savvy media buyers are best positioned to help agencies create effective social media campaigns that guarantee results.

How to rescue the flailing auto sector

While the number of interested car shoppers is staying relatively flat, consumer confidence in the auto sector is diving rapidly. Here's how to turn that around.

How automotive can survive the perfect storm

With the economic climate impacting every facet of business these days, the new message from the automotive industry should be: why buy here, and why buy now.

The dark side of Twitter

Twitter, like email, is great for moving bits of data, but it is not an experience, and it is not a conversation. Learn why the platform might be a false start for marketers.

The ills and frills of social media

The digital marketing guru at Sony Pictures Entertainment talks to iMedia about the headaches of social media and why, in the end, they're worth it.

Contextual earns a seat at the adult table

Contextual advertising can offer reach, relevance, and scale to large and small business marketers, but it also suffers from limitations and a lack of understanding. Take a look at some progress the industry is making to bring this strategy into the limelight.

5 companies that should buy Twitter

Our industry experts take a look at what could happen and who could benefit from the purchase of the microblogging giant.

Meet the brands that 'get' Twitter

Whether your brand has an official Twitter account or not, users on the microblogging platform are talking about you. And if you're not tweeting back, you're losing.

Innovate or die: Managing the barriers to change

The shelf life for audience attention is decreasing, so innovation is key to keeping mindshare focused on your brand. See how key thought leaders are refining the process for creating and communicating what's new.

Why LinkedIn is essential for brand marketers

LinkedIn founder Reid Hoffman discusses the network's unique niche, the most common professional blunders made on the site, and how the platform will evolve in the coming years.

How to use BT to reach U.S. Hispanics

Behavioral targeting provides marketers with an effective tool for reaching the growing U.S. Hispanic population, without breaking the bank. Here's how.

7 tips for the perfect Twitter profile

The decision to follow your Twitter account is made quickly. Make sure your page has what it takes to attract and keep an audience.

How to breathe life into your loyalty program

Loyalty programs often leave consumers caring about points instead of your brand. Here's how to build a relationship that benefits both you and your best customers.

5 ways to create content for social media and SEO

The heart of a brand's social media plan should revolve around interesting content. Here's how to maximize content value by attracting users no matter where they travel online.

How social media can resurrect your brand's reputation

You know social media has hit a new high when even GM, the third-largest advertiser in the U.S., can't adequately maintain conversations about its brands. Here's why all brands should start getting their feet wet in social media.

Bloggers beware: Big Brother is watching

I understand the differences between commercial speech and political speech, and that undisclosed corporate shilling is a problem. But do I think the government should have dominion over online product recommendations?

7 marketing mistakes to avoid on Twitter

Having a profile for your brand on the popular microblogging site isn't enough. You have to create a real presence. Our expert shows you how.

How to engage customers in your business decisions

With marketing budgets getting cut, private online communities should be viewed as an efficient, low-cost outlet to engage consumers. Here's how including your most prized customers in executive discussions can pay off in spades.

How to craft a social media plan that connects

If you want consumers to interact with you online, you'll need to give them a reason to do so. Follow these tips to strengthen brand loyalty through social media.

Battle of the marketing sexes

Does the female brain have an edge when it comes to marketing, or is that a myth? Take a look at some science that may fuel an industry gender war.

5 ways to connect with your existing social media fans

Brands have a responsibility to use social media to engage their fans and make them feel important. Follow these rules if you want to treat them right.

3 ways Google will positively impact targeting

Google's foray into BT has some specialists concerned, but the search giant's arrival may be the push the industry needs to progress. Here's why.

Jimmy Wales: Why the recession won't kill digital media

The Wikipedia founder says branding through user-generated content is the future of online media, so go for it while it's still cheap.

The rules of engagement marketing

An exciting new age in marketing has arrived in which interacting and building relationships with customers is the key to delivering unprecedented ROI.

A free DIY approach to social media

You don't need a huge budget or a big agency to start harnessing the power of Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter. These five methods will increase your audience -- all by yourself.

10 ways to boost the value of your corporate blog

Like every other marketing initiative, a company's blog should deliver a measurable return on investment. Here's how to make the most of yours.

Twitter, Zappos, and the science of happiness

Can interactive bring happiness and marketing success? See what Zappos CEO Tony Hsieh got everyone tweeting about at SXSWi.

Rocket your brand into the Twittersphere

Wondering how best to get on board the Twitter train? Watch as four brands explain how they are harnessing social networks to connect with consumers.

Taking risks with Twitter

Take a look at these uses (and abuses) of Twitter to see if there really is a sensible marketing application for the platform.

Turning MySpace into Mom's space

They're powerful, outspoken, and know how to band together to make brands sit up and take notice of their needs. Find out how and why you should seek the approval of moms for your next campaign.

10 tips for getting started in apps marketing

Ready to dip your toes into the expanding pool of social media applications? Don't go to the negotiating table unless you are armed with this information for getting the right deal for your brand.

How to avoid risky targeting data

Lots of online ad salespeople can promise you exactly the audience you're looking to target. But what happens when you dig deeper into how they're targeting ads?

Does Facebook own your data?

If the issue of data ownership isn't settled properly, those who know far less about how behavioral targeting works are going to be the ones to shape how this business evolves.

4 new opportunities in ad targeting

Ad targeting has the potential to become more sophisticated and reach users in unexpected ways. Here are the fundamental shifts marketers are going to see in the near future.

Which social media ads are right for you?

Data shows that many consumers welcome advertising on social networks, so take a look at how fan pages, branded virtual gifts, and more can lead to powerful user interactions.

4 points to consider when tackling Twitter

Twitter can be a great business tool, but there is so much more to it than firing off short marketing messages. Keep these tips in mind before you sit down to tweet.

The greatest social media opportunities for brands

Although social networks are more popular than ever, the jury is still out on the role brands should play in these portals. iMedia asked leading brand marketers to discuss their strategies for making a splash.

5 ways to mix art and science in ad targeting

There are many open-ended avenues to successfully reaching your target audience. Here are five steps to help determine the right goals and stick to a plan that works.

Engagement ads that create lasting impressions

By using your ad-delivery mechanism to promote your own brand, you can leverage your existing technology to connect with your audience and build loyalty.

How can Facebook be worth $15 billion?

In light of recent news articles concerning its true worth, how can Facebook even approach the valuation put forth after an investment by Microsoft? Here's some back-of-the-napkin math.

10 tools for breaking into Twitter

Trying to get a handle on this fast-growing micro-blogging platform? Here are some useful tips for getting started and making the most of your time and connections.

3 social media nightmares

With new media come new opportunities -- and new traps. Check out these three recent social media dustups and the lessons they taught us.

How to avoid selling to the wrong customer

To maximize returns during short holiday sales cycles, marketers need their messaging to be as exact as possible. Behavioral segments can help you reach the consumers you're actually looking for.

Limit experimentation and focus on proven ROI

It's time to shift from experimentation to a consolidated group of social marketing outlets. Here are five reasons even the most innovative digital marketers are narrowing their resources.

How to be a LinkedIn superstar

The people you meet and do business with expect you to be wired into their community. Here's how to market yourself and your business through this powerful social network.

SEO success in any language

In this global economy, your web presence needs to bridge international divides. Here are some pointers for incorporating translation into your search optimization strategy.

3 brands using consumer benefit the right way

In hard times, "hope" as a consumer benefit can be a powerful marketing tool, transcending customer relationships and making a powerful brand impression at just the right time in our economic history.

Are social networks mining fool's gold?

Marketers remain wary about putting dollars into social networks. iMedia asked a few agency trendsetters what they feel needs to be done to keep social networks viable and profitable as advertising platforms.

Heralding the death of non-social media

Think your brand should avoid social media? Good luck. If your marketing efforts don't currently involve social media, you're already playing catch-up. Here's why -- and how -- to get in the game.

The right questions for choosing a social platform

When creating a social media application, choosing the right place to host it is a top concern. Ask these questions to ensure that your app will live where your consumers do.

8 ways to increase targeting effectiveness

The best weapon publishers and advertisers have for fighting off the effects of the recession is consumer behavior data. Follow these tips for incorporating this powerful tool into your strategy.

Branding without brands: 3 success stories

Through creative media strategies, marketers can communicate more effectively than ever before -- without shoving their brands down consumers' throats. Check out these examples of companies that got it right.

How to align with your audience's passions

By engaging your audiences on an emotional level, you position yourself to shape their behavior. See how this tried-and-true offline strategy translates to the online world.

Don't be a social media flop

There are numerous misguided approaches to using social media as an advertising channel. In these economic hard times, accountability will matter more than it has for a very long time.

Re-targeting options you may be missing

Advertisers usually love to buy re-targeting impressions, but they can't find enough of them. Here are some tips for getting more.

Thrifty tips for brand promotions

The sliding economy won't keep your clients from needing new campaigns. Here are three ways you can trim your budgets while keeping brand promotions going strong.

What bandwidth caps mean for marketers

Connecting with brand advocates will become even more important in light of new online bandwidth caps. This Nielsen analyst explains.

Social networking: Where it's headed

Understand how social networking is evolving, which users are found in what networks and how to engage audiences as this medium starts to come into its own.

5 ways to bring targeting to another channel

Targeting isn't solely reserved for display advertising. Here's how to use consumer behaviors to deliver relevant content to your email subscribers.

The keys to beneficial brand/blogger relationships

It's easy to embrace the blogosphere without creating an overt advertorial relationship. Here's how brands and blogs are working to overcome the stigma of "selling out."

The art of self defense against brand-jacking

If your brand is online, it's susceptible to consumer influence -- both benign and malicious. See what steps your company can take to mitigate the risks.

How financial marketers are staying afloat

With a potential economic depression at the forefront of customers' minds, financial institutions focus on building trust in a changing world.

The secret to branding among teens and tweens

If you want to connect with teens and tweens, you need to play where they play. Check out these examples of brands that are getting it right.

Eco-friendly campaigns that excel

Marketing opportunity can still knock -- even when the economy is taking its lumps. See which automotive companies are spinning "green" into gold with some innovative and relevant campaigns.

LinkedIn's insights on cracking social media

Think buying on social networks is all the same? Think again. LinkedIn's director of ad sales, Steve Patrizi, gives you the inside scoop on leveraging the space.

How to use your hiring process to boost your brand

An individual's impression formed while applying for a job can be both powerful and lasting. By capitalizing on this process, your brand can earn strong advocates.

Your guide to steering the social dialogue

Social media offers the opportunity to directly connect with consumers, but savvy brands know you've got to test the waters before you dive into the discussion.

How to tailor display to every user

You need captivating display ads, and you need them in bulk. Here's are some guidelines for preparing your creative to scale.

3 top tools for branding in a Web 2.0 world

As more sites and services emerge, retaining your brand identity in the Web 2.0 space is bound to get more complex. Get some helpful tips for sites and strategies that will make you stand out in the clutter.

How to create better brand advocates

Vocal consumer communities can be effective extensions of your sales team -- if you know how to get them on your side.

How brands can win in the blogosphere

Blogs offer very safe environments for advertisers, but it's still important to plan your full strategy before jumping in. Technorati CEO Richard Jalichandra explains why.

Social media's killer app

Having a presence in the social space is a time commitment. But how do you avoid social media overload, and is there a third option that streamlines the networking process?

Why the networks are blowing the social scene

Can the big TV networks promote their shows through social media without faking authenticity or losing creative control? See whether "Heroes" and "Fringe" are doing enough to drive awareness and tune-in.

Paramount's new-style movie marketing

With "Tropic Thunder" and "Eagle Eye," Paramount's Amy Powell is changing the game for interactive movie marketing. She sits down with our chief content officer to talk about it.

Secrets of viral fame

Offend your audience. Surprise your audience. But whatever you do, don't tell them what to do.

BT only tells half the story

If your marketing efforts are focused on car buyers who have already narrowed down their options, you're missing valuable opportunities. Here's how to get your make and model on a car buyer's short list of candidates.

How agencies tackle social media

Social media offers huge insight into consumer behavior, but how do you get the most out of this complex medium?

5 marketing tips for tackling Twitter

Discover how Dell, JetBlue, H&R Block and even Obama are leveraging this tool to connect with target audiences.

Navigate the blogosphere's biggest ad networks

Millions of consumers read blogs, including your target audience. Make the most of this growing marketing opportunity with the right niche ad network.

Stop neglecting your viral metrics

Think viral metrics are unobtainable? Guess again. Here's the easy way to track your viral campaign's success.

Tips for successful media seeding

Don't create great content and then just hope the viewers will come. Find the greatest possible viewership with these strategic steps.

Cloud computing and cars: a web services primer

Keeping up with shifting technology is an uphill battle when marketing in the automotive vertical. See how web services can help you focus on promotion, rather than your infrastructure.

Why social media demands killer creative

Deep Focus' outspoken CEO urges marketers to re-examine the creative process, discusses the greatest legacy of recent media history and reveals who might make Twitter a viable marketing platform.

Your BT campaign checklist

Learn how to get greater returns from your next campaign with these crucial action items for targeting success.

The new definition of spam

Getting a consumer's opt-in isn't enough. New research indicates your legitimate email promotions are still being discarded as spam. Here's what you can do about it.

Social advertising: a plan for viral success

You may not be able to anticipate which campaigns will be a hit with consumers, but there are ways to optimize your brand's chances of being accepted in their digital gathering spots.

How to conquer online video advertising

Pre-roll? Overlay? Who cares? Marketers need to focus less on ad formats and more on how behavioral targeting will influence online video consumption.

Is your brand at social media's ground zero?

Facebook, MySpace and other social networks can be very tempting for marketers but challenging for the brand overall. Consider these obstacles you may encounter on the road to social media success.

Avoid social networking aggression

Running an online community means occasionally having to deal with the anti-social antics of trolls. Underscore Marketing's president lays out a plan for keeping the peace.

6 questions for potential targeting providers

One provider's definition of targeting can vary markedly from another's. Find out what to consider when choosing the partner that will work best for you.

It's a blogger's world; learn to fit in

Bloggers offer marketers a new way to reach consumers, but you will need to know their rules before you can play in their sandbox. Check out these tips to make sure you engage them the right way.

Cuil loses its cool, Facebook app yanked

On the web, good news travels fast, but disaster spreads at the speed of light. See which brands belly-flopped this week, and how MySpace nipped a potential catastrophe in the bud.

10 steps to capture the cool crowd

Motivate influential consumers on your behalf and watch your campaign spread like wildfire.

Best bets for branded word of mouth

Shared consumer experiences can make or break your brand when it comes to WOM. See how to increase your chances of getting on your customers' good sides.

Why your BT campaign doesn't deliver

Marketers sometimes lose sight of the role BT plays in their integrated plans. Underscore Marketing's president examines why this happens and how to stay on track.

Top 10 social media misconceptions

Think beyond Facebook and stop being a control freak. Our author provides these and other tips for making the most of your social media campaign.

Zuckerberg reveals aggressive growth plan, and more

Facebook has a new look, Yahoo is still independent and BT may be able to predict the future. Sort of. See what happened this week in interactive.

Savvy marketers deliver service that sells

Recent Nike and Visa campaigns provide true value to customers and prospects. Learn how to boost your brand through similar online strategies.

Achieve viral results without leaving your site

Facebook and Twitter can be powerful tools, but neither has as much juice as your website. Find out how to make your No. 1 digital asset the centerpiece of your social media strategy.

7 deadly myths of behavioral targeting

Contrary to popular belief, BT is not a cure for all marketing ailments. Take a look at these misconceptions, and learn more about the truth behind them.

Online video: who is leading by example?

Interstitials and avails are out, but what's taking their place? See how the video climate is changing for automotive, and how your brand can keep up.

3 things to consider before marketing on Facebook

Facebook users are on guard against marketing-heavy applications. Underscore Marketing's president offers some tips for launching an application that users will embrace, not reject.

Understand the 4 BT methods

Not all BT approaches are equally effective. Before you launch a targeted campaign, you first need to know your options.

LinkedIn secrets to marketing success

LinkedIn offers you access to influential business decision makers, as well as a space to market your brand. Here's how to take advantage of the site and its functionality.

Has social media lost its luster?

Impressions may be through the roof, but social networks aren't the apple of a serious media buyer's eye anymore. Get the inside scoop on what's working in that finicky space and why some brands just won't go there -- period.

Add insight to engagement with biometrics

The CEO of NeuroFocus reveals some neurological metrics that can improve marketers' chances of gaining consumers' attention, engaging them emotionally and crafting messages that stick in their minds.

Women in online: how to get an edge

Does digital marketing have a glass ceiling for women? Take a look at some of the big challenges for female professionals in the industry, and some new tools for overcoming them.

BT's critical role in life-stage marketing

Behavioral targeting can play a special role for products and services where need is dictated by life stage. Here's how you might carve out a role for BT in your organization.

3 tactics to make Web 2.0 work

Web 2.0 is real, raw and can require a scary change of mindset for some brands. With some help from these proven strategies, you can rein in the danger while still engaging consumers.

Digital entertainment: the next Y2K?

Yes, we're past the honeymoon phase of interactive. But there's a great opportunity to steal the hearts -- and mindshare -- of audiences, and it may be simpler than you think.

New media gets you the right audience

Some speculate that the internet doesn't have the reach of traditional media. Fox Interactive Media's president disagrees. Here's why.

Ad campaigns that could have done better

Could classic ad campaigns have benefitted from social media? Underscore Marketing's president looks at how things might have been in advertising's heyday.

Brand vs. product: what really drives reputation?

As an increasing number of consumers are making purchasing decisions based on product innovation rather than brand loyalty, marketers need to adopt a new mindset.

The X Factor: Can Fox conquer social media?

As the entire media system is about to completely fracture, did Fox make the right move by jumping into the social media fracas? Here are four simple rules to live by.

Face your targeting fears

Before you launch a BT campaign, consider these six pointers to understand your customers' behaviors beyond the creative brief.

Are you neglecting half of your audience?

If you don't monetize your site or advertising for foreign visitors, you're leaving lots of euros, pounds and shekels on the table.

What it takes for an ad to go viral

Getting an ad to go viral is no easy feat. Here are some pointers on what it takes to get your ad picked up by the masses.

Learn to syndicate your brand identity

To get the greatest value out of your social networking strategy, you need to communicate consistently across every platform used. An online communities expert explains how.

Why plain old relevance won't get you the sale

Where does online hold the greatest influence over auto shoppers? A Cars.com VP explains a key factor of messaging and discusses a more measurable approach.

Dear Dawn: Is soliciting user content safe?

Great user-generated content comes from great brand planning. MindComet explains how to create a framework for creativity.

Don't shout louder, aim better

Underscore Marketing's president explains how targeting smarter and engaging consumers not only will get brands noticed but also can save them money.

How marketers can make or break a blockbuster

Take a look at how the major studios are using new media to market 2008's popcorn flicks, and see who's succumbing to the biggest new trend -- audience fatigue.

The X Factor: If the Pope gets social media, why can't we?

Now that social media has shattered the illusion of brand control, is your company ready for this brave new world?

Branding beyond borders

Savvy brand managers know that there is a social network life outside of Facebook. Find out more about the importance of culture on other sites and how you can put this knowledge to work for you

Getting to influencers the behavioral way

You have a product launch coming up and success or failure depends on how far your limited ad budget can spread the word. Here's a new way to evaluate your media spend.

Use social networks to boost search results

Looking for creative SEO tactics? Here's a four-step strategy for constructing a social network seeding campaign.

Why agencies are failing

With more eyes turning to interactive, agencies aren't doing enough to connect with evolving consumers. Find out what you're missing.

Key innovations from the world of auto marketing

In a tight economy, it takes ingenuity to capture the attention of in-market shoppers. See what tools the automotive industry uses to generate consumer interest and increase conversions.

How Papa John's averted a WOM disaster

A recent Papa John's public relations blunder gave the brand the opportunity to turn the episode into a brand publicity stunt -- offering 23-cent pizzas to eager customers.

The target audience you shouldn't ignore

Is your brand top of mind for moms? Find out from BabyCenter Global President, Tina Sharkey, why this hot audience segment can make or break your brand, as well as how to get in their good graces.

The truth about web video seeding

Feed's president addresses common questions and misperceptions about this new marketing tactic that's enabling video to go viral.

Your dedicated social media staffer

If you're still looking to get a better handle on Web 2.0, it may be time to hire someone to specifically track and improve your brand's social media presence.

Tap into the sphere of influencers

Paul Martecchini explains how marketers can leverage new technologies to reach their prime audience.

How to spot a BT faker

Who is delivering the behavioral targeting goods and who is just paying lip service? Underscore Marketing's president shows you how to separate the wheat from the chaff.

BT discipline for newbies

If you look at behavioral targeting as a quick fix, your results will come up short. BT needs time and "training" to succeed.

10 experts weigh in on marketing to U.S. Hispanics

In this definitive guide, experts from Ford, Google, eMarketer, AOL Latino and others provide insight on how to reach this growing, lucrative and often misunderstood market online.

Inside the GM digital bombshell

GM's director of media operations, Jon Brancheau, reveals the truth about the company's digital budget allocations in a frank chat from the 2008 iMedia Driving Interactive Summit.

Create an agency out of chaos

The agency structure of yesteryear is no longer effective, but what should the new model be? Experts discuss needs and challenges.

6 tips for building community

Nurturing communities with a natural linkage to your business can be an incredibly effective way to build your brand. Here's how to get started.

Do users really want to be in control?

Our media strategies editor suggests that user-generated content is more about the user, less about the content, and therefore remains a challenge to advertisers.

4 ways to overcome brand stigma

Gaining mainstream acceptance of a "taboo" product requires mass marketing, celebrities and testimonials. Here are some ways disgrace can get an about-face.

Combined forces strengthen BT's effect

Find out how three elements, when combined, help publishers create a "perfect storm" of behavioral targeting opportunities essential to the lasting success of their websites.

Tips for success in a Web 2.0 world

MRM Worldwide's digital strategist outlines three key considerations for keeping up with the new online consumer.

Are advertisers killing Facebook?

Is a social network really an ad platform? Consider the nature of the site before you buy.

What guys want, online

The key to building loyalty with 18- to 34-year-old males is to partner with sites that not only draw them in but that also engage them.

The X Factor: MySpace is better than yours

When you talk to people in our industry, Facebook is hotter than MySpace. But the truth is that consumers in vast numbers -- and at a content-engaging level -- are on MySpace.

Dear Dawn: How do we reach influencers?

Although influentials only make up 10 percent of the population, they can be found online. Here's what the research and experts have to say about reaching this group.

How to monetize social media

Underscore Marketing's president thinks social media aggregators may have the answer to the platform's scale and relevance issues. See why.

The key to holistic marketing

Because consumers use numerous platforms in their shopping process, marketers need to find ways to effectively incorporate each into their selling strategy. Mazda provides examples.

An industry wake-up call

With legislators once again raising consumers' fears about their online privacy, the industry needs to prepare for possible fall out.

The X Factor: The high price of protecting privacy

The biggest illusion is that we have any privacy online. It's bunk. So is New York Sen. Richard L. Brodsky's privacy bill, if it passes.

How to save BT from regulators

In light of the current debate over privacy and BT, our industry can and should take three broad proactive steps to both protect consumer rights and behavioral targeting.

Know how your ads are targeted

As a media buyer, you really have to dive into the weeds to find out how ads are being targeted. But understanding BT methodology pays handsome dividends.

Why GM gambled $1.5B on digital

Over the next three years, General Motors will shift half of its advertising budget to digital. Will that be enough to get the automobile manufacturer in gear?

Confessions of a Facebook rookie

As consumers like me struggle to get the best use out of social media, marketers need to show us the value.

Can online gain lost viewers?

Your online efforts can bring disgruntled post-strike TV viewers back into the fold; find out how.

Your key demographic speaks its mind

Want to know how to reach Gen Y consumers on their terms? In iMedia's first survey with Peanut Labs, see what media they can't live without, what makes a website trustworthy, their thoughts on ad-subsidized console games and more.

How to reach business contacts on social media

Here's a list of best practices to keep your Facebook and LinkedIn business connections alive and strong.

The essential targeting starter kit

Think you're ready for behavioral targeting? Think again. First consider these five important questions.

Viral marketing: pass it on

The potential brand benefits are worth the intermediate work of viral campaigns. Andreas Roell shows you why.

The X Factor: Facebook, are you listening?

Facebook is a great social networking site, but are the employees really that socially clueless in their ad targeting? Do you think you're creating a positive brand experience, Facebook?

Analyzing beyond the leads

Want to justify marketing dollars and increase sales? Then take a closer look at how to analyze web data and integrate it into the lead generation process.

3 factors improving BT's aim

Marketers have gone from mass marketing to macro targeting, but the process can be even more efficient. Find out how.

Get in on the social shopping craze

The social element of shopping is manifesting in many ways online, providing marketers with opportunities -- and challenges. NetPlus Marketing's president describes the environment.

Avoid these Facebook faux pas

Before your brand tries its luck on social networks, consider this advice to make sure you don't end up with egg on your face.

Dear Dawn: social media has us stumped

Morpheus Media provides help for a reader looking to justify social media marketing buys.

Find the right social network for your brand

Learn how to narrow the social network field and target the right prospects by partnering with lead generation providers.

3 themes shaping behavioral targeting

As marketers test BT waters, they will need to come to grips with a still-evolving landscape and integrate some of the key lessons of the past 10 years.

Word of mouth: empower or cower

Since you can't stop online chatter about your brand, provide consumers with a controlled platform to spread the word. It will benefit you both.

Sandwich eaters spark UGA debate

Subway's recent suit against Quiznos for claims made in user-generated ads raises some sticky legal questions. An attorney explores the issue.

Build a media plan that's right on target

Learn how to balance behavioral, contextual and demographic buying strategies to get in front of the user you're really after.

Powerful niches to park your ads in

Take a closer look at niche marketing and you may be rewarded with a whole new group of loyal customers. Chrome Systems' GM explains how you can get started.

Defining the success of modern marketing

Our media strategies editor lays out some guidelines for navigating the technologically dependant, data-driven media and marketing environment.

Mr. Engineer? Facebook is on line 1

When you want your brand to take control of an outside social network, the last person you want to send in is corporate communications.

A revenue-generating idea for publishers

Here are five ways behavioral targeting can boost a website's bottom line.

Is the influencer model dead or evolved?

It has been said that the influencer model is dead. That may be true offline, but it is alive -- and essential to marketers -- on the net.

Making sense of social media

Integrating social media into your marketing efforts deserves as much attention to detail as you would give to other similarly budgeted programs.

Google's view of autos for 2008

The search giant's automotive director shares strategies for localized marketing and precision targeting and predicts some key industry trends on the verge of their tipping points.

Controlling a brand conversation

You can't really control what the blogosphere says about your brand, but with these simple steps you can exert more influence. The NextStage CRO explains.

Targeting tips for a converged media world

How will marketers find their target consumers as media convergence increases? The CEO of Geary Interactive shares some key adaptive strategies.

Influence purchase patterns with social media

Social networks offer marketers more than just large audiences. Red Door Interactive's president describes some opportunities.

The path to social network riches

Advertising on social networks can be very expensive -- with little payoff. Here's an easy solution to this cost problem.

Metrics, data and defining modern marketing

With enough of the right kind of data, marketers can learn a lot more about what to do next, not just a lot about what they've already done.

Meet your brand advocates

Brand advocates can be highly sought after resources in digital marketing, but do marketers really know what they're thinking? Meet some of the people behind user-generated videos.

Measure the impact of social media on your brand

iCrossing's VP of strategy explains how to navigate the uncharted waters of social media's marketing impact.

Get in the user-generated ad game

XLNTads' acting CEO shares the tricks of the trade from marketers who enlisted audiences to create their Super Bowl ads last year.

Branded social strategy: easy as 3+3

Here's a simple plan for creating a unique brand experience with social networks, created by Powered Inc.'s account management VP.

Bloggers, influence and your brand

How do you decide who at your company should blog for your brand? The NextStage CRO is on the case.

Simple tips for gathering customer feedback

Have you lost sight of the easiest way to find out what your customers really think about your business? AccuQuote's Sean Cheyney shows you how.

Niche content: brand with an attitude

As more and more traffic is directed to niche content -- whether edgier, lower budget, user-generated or just off-beat -- you need to know why and how to market in this content category.

Killer social media marketing in 7 steps

Studiocom's national strategy practice lead explains how to get in sync with your consumer base and strengthen your brand's allure in 2008.

Build a social network in less than 60 minutes

As social networking sites continue to grow at an unprecedented rate, creating an exclusive network for your brand is not always as complicated or expensive as you might think.

Behavioral targeting: what we've learned so far

As we start the new year, Revenue Science's CEO examines some key changes to the online landscape that will affect how marketers connect with consumers through BT.

The antidote to search engine fatigue

An Autobytel survey reveals consumers' desire for fewer, more relevant results generated by vertical search engines.

Social media & consumer preference

Why do people prefer Facebook to LinkedIn and vice versa? The NextStage CRO explains.

Behavioral targeting horoscopes for 2008

Revenue Science's VP of marketing provides an insightful look at some of the BT concepts sure to fall in your favor for the upcoming year.

Lessons from the Beacon backlash

Facebook alienated its community in launching Beacon; this blog guru explains the issue and gives pointers on how to avoid making such a mistake.

How BT ensures its marketing power

Our media strategies editor takes a look at behavioral targeting's uses, how to define success and its future as a campaign tactic.

The two sides of the Do-Not-Track controversy

Depending on who you ask, the proposed DNT list is either a massive mistake or a step in the right direction. Find out the pros and cons of an idea that could radically alter the marketing landscape.

How to nurture an online community

Like gardens, online communities need weeding and feeding to grow and thrive. Prospero Technology's VP explains.

How social networks are courting marketers

Social networks are pulling out all the stops to get advertiser dollars, but what do they really have to offer marketers? New Media Strategies' CEO explores the topic.

Will advertising on Facebook work?

Our media strategies editor wonders whether Facebook can grow, become fiscally viable and remain relevant with its own audience all at the same time.

What online marketers can learn from ants

Is your current targeting strategy fundamentally flawed? Baynote Inc.'s marketing director looks to the tiny kings of communal thinking for a better way to reach customers.

Keys to social media success

Want to get in the social media game? Keep these pointers in mind as you design your marketing campaign.

A Web 2.0 platform you may have missed

Find out from Freewebs' president why advertisers need to know about this next step on the engagement-marketing continuum.

Get personal with your landing pages

Find the users you really want by tailoring your site based on visitor behavior. Geary Interactive explains.

Move from eyeballs to interactions

With interactive media, it's not enough to know how many people viewed the content, or even transacted. Find out about the new metric needed from Networked Insights' CEO.

How hot products warmed up to social media

Nintendo's Wii, Starbucks and Webkinz found creative ways to generate buzz with social media. Oneupweb takes a look at what made these campaigns tick.

Messaging consistency: be everything to everyone

KBB.com's advertising and business development director discusses the automotive model as an example for brands that need to reach enterprise-wide solutions despite multiple messaging goals.

Online advertising could be doomed

The report back from last week's FTC discussion about tracking and targeting should have all online advertisers worried, and scrambling to get involved.

Reach high school grads who like to spend

Get the guide to who Shadow Millennials are and how they like to spend their disposable income.

Will Google's OpenSocial matter?

Underscore Marketing's president questions the platform's significance, and wonders about social networking's future course.

OpenSocial to undo Facebook?

MIVA's Chrysi Philalithes explains that OpenSocial may just mark a tipping point in social media, one that levels the playing field.

5 tips for a deeper connection

Offermatica's co-founder lists five easy ways to better reach your audience.

The creative execution that's right for everyone

With automated video ad personalization, serving the right ad to the right person could become a no-brainer. Read on for the benefits of this technology.

Tips to rule the Tweendom

The Intelligence Group's trend analyst explores the golden age of the tween and what makes this powerful -- and growing -- demographic group click with marketing messages.

Get outta my Facebook!

Media Strategies Editor Jim Meskauskas discusses the viability -- or lack thereof -- of the social networking space as an advertising vehicle.

Facebook woos business crowd

Facebook's latest strategic deals bode well for the company and for marketers eager to reach a high net-worth demographic through the social networking site.

Low-cost options for social media branding

Looking for a cheap (free) way to dip your toe in the social media waters? Underscore Marketing's president shares some pointers.

Tactical and strategic: 2 key approaches

Social media is a new, and hot, marketing platform. In the wake of two social media industry events, Noah Elkin asks, when will marketers marry the tactical and strategic approaches?

Don't leave customer feedback to chance

Soliciting comments from customers might seem scary, but it's less risky than ignoring their need to speak up. RatePoint's CEO explains how to proactively manage the process.

Is the MySpace crowd lying to marketers?

Social networks are starting to target ads based on interests expressed by users. But are marketers relying on jokes, lies and deception when planning campaigns?

Can social media deliver BT results?

The promise of ad targeting based on social media consumption still remains largely unfulfilled. Radar Research's co-founder offers up a solution for the marketing disconnect between enthusiasm and advocacy.

The general election and the rise of behavioral targeting

Revenue Science's CEO says that consumers are consistently more receptive to behaviorally targeted ads than to contextual advertising.

See how SKYY and others broke the branding mold

Mindcomet shares case studies for three brands that successfully tapped consumer content.

Viral campaigns with infectious results

Social networks are all the rage, but do you know how to use them to market your brand? In this video, Powerstar Consulting's principal offers some examples.

Why MySpace just won't cut it

Social networking for companies means more than putting up a MySpace page. Learn from Neighborhood America's exec VP how to drive engagement and profits.

Is Yahoo! poised to make a social killing?

Does Yahoo!'s new social network smack of desperation, or is it the stuff of inspiration? Get a sneak peek at Mash, Yahoo's answer to MySpace and Facebook.

The 2-minute guide to a brand-centric community

Building a community site is easy; creating a successful community requires a lot more effort. KickApps CEO outlines the process.

The missing link in the behavioral equation

Advanced analytics hold new promise for optimizing the latest wave of targeting and delivery innovations for your brand. Exponential Inc.'s CEO explains.

Surprising new ways to target

Marketers can take their campaigns to a new level with behavioral targeting in ways they may not have imagined. Geary Interactive's CEO explains.

Your secret brand asset: customers

A well-delivered owner's section could provide a serious competitive advantage. iPerceptions' VP of R&D reveals why you should focus on getting your current customers to do your branding work.

What it means to market to women

The key to marketing to female consumers is understanding how women buyers think. Chrome Systems' general manager offers some helpful pointers.

Social media: not just for kids

Sites that deliver on the needs of adults for social interaction also deliver advertiser results. Learn from Enlighten what these sites have to offer.

Cable eats network TV's lunch with online marketing this fall

Real Branding's VP of entertainment explores some of the strategies network TV and cable are using to promote and monetize this year's fall schedule online.

The marketing ROI of social networks

The power of marketing through social networks is in identifying like-minded groups who will be receptive to your message. Chelsea Media's president explains how to do it.

Travel meets Web 2.0: a match made in heaven

With the advent of Web 2.0, travel companies are realizing they must incorporate rich media and other tools in order to enrich the customer experience.

Harnessing conversation in a social media world

Web 2.0 lets brands become a part of the consumer conversations that are already happening.

Don't buy my data, unless it's from me

By auctioning off my non-personally identifiable information, I was hoping to demonstrate the value in a data exchange ecosystem. But then things went wrong�

The next big revenue generator

You thought search was the biggest thing to hit online advertising? Just wait. Behavioral targeting will blow it out of the water.

Campaigns that cross a greater divide

The land "Down Under" might just be the ultimate proving ground for innovative campaigns and universal branding strategies. See what our Australian experts say about marketing in this fertile, foreign landscape.

Purchase behavior: the new behavioral thumbprint

The keying of external purchase data profiles has opened up new options for evaluating online advertising. What does this mean for your brand?

Connect with 4 hot demographics

Grab the attention of these key audiences and you'll convert them into loyal, profitable customers. Prospectiv's CEO offers up successful strategies.

How a "cause" can help your marketing bottom line

Cause marketing allows a company to align its core values with a consumer passion and positively impact a societal need.

How BT can and should change the industry

Dave Morgan, founder of TACODA and Real Media, chats with iMedia about what he sees ahead personally, professionally and for BT.

MySpace, Facebook to use personal data

Audience Marketplace's CEO explains that the detailed personal information available on social networks is what makes them so valuable.

How to play nice with the Mommy brigade

Here are some tips on successfully reaching out to children, assuaging parents' fears and ensuring that your brand messages are welcome in the home.

Inviting comments? Do it safely

Want to use reviews to drive conversions but you're concerned about negative posts? Here�s how to encourage balance.

How Coke was rewarded for its BT plan

Coca-Cola's senior interactive brand manager explains how targeting helped My Coke Rewards exceed its brand objectives.

Wikipedia's new rules of engagement

iCrossing's VP of corporate strategy explains the importance, and constraints, of this collaborative encyclopedia.

6 ways to generate buzz

The author of "Beyond Buzz: The Next Generation of Word of Mouth Marketing" provides these tips.

Social media: Don't promote, participate

A MIVA VP explains why these five steps are key to social media marketing success.

Share your content for Web 2.0 success

It's important to be open with your users and make site content sharable and reusable. Molecular explains.

Would you pay $1 for this man's data?

Want to own Mr. Data's non-personally identifiable information? Get it here, now.

Socialize your site for better insights

Transform your site into a knowledge base of customer insights. Networked Insights' CEO explains.

Putting the consumer first, literally

As consumer roles and behaviors change, so too can online's ability to directly target and reach the right person with the right message.

Will Coca-Cola stop marketing to kids?

Food and beverage companies are committing to self-regulate what they market to kids. This will alter their advertising strategies, but will it make a difference in the end?

How to reach your most valuable consumers

Yahoo!'s CPG category development officer shares research showing behavioral targeting's effectiveness in reaching the right consumers.

Improve the odds on your targeting guesses

Offermatica's president demonstrates how to dramatically increase behavioral targeting results with minimal effort.

Yahoo's CMO & others share vision of future

Thought leaders gathered in Mexico to share insights on global internet activity and explore where that will take us.

How M&As tipped the scale in your favor

Underscore Marketing's president explains how recent M&As are delivering on promises made to media buyers during the first dotcom boom.

Take the social media plunge: 6 pointers

If you use traditional media assessment formulas to plan an ad strategy in the new world of social media, you're making a big mistake. Here's why.

A Marketer's Guide to Emerging Social Networks

Go beyond MySpace, Facebook and others with the latest social networks. Renegade Marketing explains.

Think outside the inbox to reach teens

When trying to reach this coveted demo, innovative email strategies work, as do these hot new marketing techniques.

7.5 rules for creating a great business blog

Considering launching a business blog, or looking to improve one you have already? Yahoo!'s blog guru gives some pointers.

Will Facebook's Heat Make MySpace Meat?

Facebook has come on so strong lately that CEO Mark Zuckerberg has made his rivals look like fuddy-duddies. But will its meteoric rise equal MySpace-sized ad dollars?

Facebook Horror Story: A Millennial Speaks Out

When Facebook opened its doors to a limitless age group, did this alienate its coveted youth demographic?

Your BT Cheat Sheet

Geary Interactive's CEO offers this guide to clarify BT's function and impact within the online industry.

With TACODA in Tow, Will AOL Dominate?

Once a titan, then a digital punchline, AOL grabbed headlines by plunking down a reported $275 million for TACODA. But will BT return AOL to dominance?

Warning: Your IM strategy may be outdated

Social networking sites are poised to supplant IM use by the teen demographic. Enlighten's VP of interactive marketing advises evaluating your tactics now.

Chile Offers Marketers a Multiplatform Advantage

Boasting some of the the highest PC, internet and mobile penetration rates in Latin America, Chile is a land of opportunity for marketers. LatinEdge's CMO explains.

Compete with Irresistible Content and Win

With BT 3.0, advertisers can target -- and attract -- qualified prospects at their most distractible moments, across media. Zango's president explains.

How to Do Social Media Marketing Right

Find out how to best launch your campaign with these industry examples and supporting research.

Making Data Integration the Rule

Some brave soul decided to auction his non-personally identifiable information on eBay. Here's what that means to the marketing industry.

A Sneak Peek at What's Ahead for Targeting

A Revenue Science account director examines how behavioral targeting has progressed overseas, providing a glimpse of BT's future here.

Don't Target Your Customers into Oblivion

Overtargeting isn't just a scale problem, it's a complex issue that owes its existence to a number of industry challenges.

Take a Page from TV Networks

Websites, like TV networks, should keep the homepage's "programming" fresh and relevant to each viewer.

Why Funny Ads Get Serious Brand ROI

Learn when humor works -- and when it doesn't -- as a brand-building tool.

Using BT to Dodge the Undesirable

If 20 percent of your customers drag down your company's profitability, can you use behavioral targeting to avoid showing these people your ads? Underscore Marketing's president has the story.

3D Target Marketing for Better Results

The next step for behavioral marketing avoids disconnects with consumers and provides a more consistent experience.

Mexico Online: Targeting the Young Desirables

Companies are battling for the hearts, minds and wallets of Mexico's biggest consumer youth segment.

Retarget and Pump Up the Search Volume

BlueLithium's CMO explains how to use behavioral targeting to take your search marketing program to the next level.

Agencies: Can You Cope with the Candid Camera?

XLNTads' acting CEO talks with a user-generated ad videographer about how people like him are changing the industry.

Selling Drugs like Cereal

The CEO of a health-focused ad network shares the challenges of pharmaceutical companies and how industry changes may boost their online presence.

3 Steps to Measuring Blog Buzz

Follow these steps outlined by Blastro Network's founder to turn conversation on your company blog into consumer insight.

The Big Idea Behind Social Commerce

Social commerce helps underscore two important themes that marketing professionals should orbit themselves around.

Targeting or Segmentation. Get the Difference?

With so many advertisers stuck in Behavioral Marketing 101, Underscore Marketing's president explains how to take advantage of BT's strengths.

The Targeting Solution You've Been Waiting For

Find out how one tasty cookie can solve five targeting issues. LookSmart's Ari Kaufman explains.

How Rupert Murdoch Plans to Take Over Interactive Marketing

There's more to News Corp. than MySpace, but in Rupert Murdoch's bid to outfox us all, it's the perfect starting point: one friend at a time.

What Kills a Social Media Campaign

Check out the good, the dreadful and the redeeming in corporate social media marketing.

Don't Be a Social Misfit

Social networking sites have unwritten but unmistakable rules for marketers. Learn what they are from iProspect's president.

Help Your Brand Score with New College Grads

Recent college graduates have a dizzying array of choices, so how do marketers steer newly minted grads to their brand?

What to Do When Customers Attack

UnderScore Marketing's president explains how to listen to your users' comments and bring them to bear on your business.

3 Rules for Creating Buzz

Do you want a mobile or static audience to set your viral campaign on fire? Don't know the difference? NextStage's CRO has the story.

The Trick to Web 2.0: Give Up Control

Once-static websites have now become organic systems that are flexible and evolve, that grow with our users and keep us in tune with their needs.

2 Simple Rules for Social Media

iCrossing's VP of corporate strategy advises marketers on how to listen to consumer-supported social networks, and how to be useful to them.

Tap the Sphere of Influence: 3 Secrets

Smart marketers create their own social networks for customers, giving them the opportunity to self-identify and share information.

Why BT is a Bargain

With the industry�s insistence on measuring media delivery via reach, frequency and GRPs against demographic targets, behavioral targeting can get overlooked. Underscore Marketing�s president explains why it shouldn't.

Conversational Marketing in 2 Mins.

Communispace's CEO shares five conversational marketing best practices in this two-minute guide.

Let Boomers Spread the Word

A new survey confirms baby boomers' reliance on word-of-mouth recommendations and provides tips for connecting with them online.

What Twitter Means for Marketers

Real Branding takes a look at why you and your brand should care about this latest online phenomenon.

Put Targeting Control in Users' Hands

Behavioral targeting works. User-generated content gets response. BlueLithium's CMO says it's time to marry these two ideas.

The Pitfalls of Over-Targeting

It's important to reduce media waste, but there is such a thing as too small a slice of the targeting pie.

How to Market Social Media to Execs

The VP of marketing and products for Bazaarvoice says you need to combine logic and emotion to make your case.

Sony Spins Spider-Man's Marketing Web

Sony spent up to $500 million on "Spider-Man 3." Here's a glimpse at the multimillion-dollar web.

The Dangers of Exploiting Social Media

In the media frenzy over the Virginia Tech shootings, it seems that taste and decency took a back seat to deadlines and immediacy.

Use Web 2.0 Tools to Drive Loyalty

Customer engagement drives loyalty and the effective use of Web 2.0 drives customer engagement.

Wunderman's Lessons for Social Media

When you hand brand control to your users, know what's ahead and how best to handle the results. iCrossing's VP of corporate strategy explains.

Why Your Creative Needs to Catch Up

Tweak your creative to reach the consumer you're really after. TACODA's Dave Morgan shows you how.

Clear Up Confusion and Cash in on BT

Knowing what you're buying can dispel confusion and increase ad investment. Revenue Science's chief revenue officer provides the questions to ask.

Getting Ads to the Right Eyeballs

"Fishing From a Barrel" author Rob Graham explains how to put the right ads in front of the right people.

Social Networks Give Brand-Building Advice

WIT Strategy's associate reports in from the Wharton Graduate School of Business panel discussion, "Building Community Around Content," featuring MySpace and Passenger.

Social Networks: Niche vs. MySpace

BlueLithium's CEO explains why brands and their agencies should consider niche social networks to reach a targeted audience.

Why Coke & Mentos Exploded on the Web

The EepyBird guys explain how brands and consumer video creators can work together.

Keep User-Generated Content Legal

A solid Terms of Use policy can sometimes save an advertiser from getting into dangerous legal territory with user-generated content.

Google Gobbles DoubleClick... Now What?

For display advertising to grow, reach and engagement have to go together or nobody wins.

JetBlue & Taco Bell: Lessons in Crisis Marketing

Social media spreads bad company news like wildfire. Oneupweb's president discusses best practices in extinguishing crisis in a Web 2.0 environment.

Virtual Worlds: Your Place or Theirs?

Morpheus Media breaks down the pros and cons of creating a customized virtual world vs. a branded world.

Moving Beyond Event-Based Targeting

There are many different kinds of behavioral targeting, from event based to site-side and beyond. Find out what you're missing.

Boost Business with Customer Dialogue

Eluma's VP of marketing and business development discusses what's needed for an effective customer-centric strategy.

Do's & Don'ts for Fooling Users

How do you pull the wool over your users' eyes without upsetting the masses? Find out in this feature.

6 Tips to Launch Your BT Campaign

Mediaplex's senior director of product management outlines six steps to foolproof targeting.

SPEED Puts Viewers in Driver's Seat

MindComet's VP of marketing showcases how a sports cable network tapped into user-generated content to promote a show's new season.

Social Media: A Business Marketer's Guide

Four questions a marketer should ask before determining if social media will improve performance.

Beyond Word of Mouth

Marketers who view consumers as partners rather than target markets will reap the rewards.

Target Audience, Not Sites

ALMONDNET's CEO responds to TACODA's Curt Viebranz and his article on the lack of transparency in ad networks.

Use Social Networks to Target Ads

Seethroo's CEO speaks about how the company uses Web 2.0 behavioral patterns to target audiences.

How to Conquer an Inventory Crisis

Find out what to do when the inventory you want isn't available.

How to Influence the Influencers

To find success with WOM marketing, one must reach and motivate the most influential 10 percent of the population.

New Social Marketing Opportunities

Sharpe Partners' CEO describes five ways to prepare for marketing within social networks in the near future.

Protect Your Brand from Users

Turn users into passionate brand advocates with user-generated marketing tactics.

The Ethics of Behavioral Targeting

When does our fascination with media technology end up contributing to something more than we are comfortable with?

Smart Marketing in a Wiki World

There's a fine line between influencing the message and creating propaganda. CoreBrand's brand director explains where to draw it.

Geezers or Geeks: Target Your Market

Hitwise analysis of the iPhone and Windows Vista launch promotions shows vastly different strategies that resonated for each product's audience.

Citizen Marketers Take Over!

In this exclusive book excerpt, Ben McConnell and Jackie Huba explain how four different types of users can impact your brand.

3 Steps to Targeting Nirvana

Behavioral targeting can be hit or miss. Here's how to sift through a lot of dirt to find the nuggets of gold.

When Users Post, Do Advertisers Pay?

Learn from an attorney about the potential liabilities of advertising on user-generated content sites.

Social Media Winners & Losers

Underscore Marketing's president shares five tips for getting the most from social media.

How Authentic is Your Brand Experience?

Genex's director of interactive marketing strategy looks at the need for genuine human experience in user-generated campaigns, and shows marketers how they can better tap into this need in their campaigns.

Capture Tomorrow's Emerging Market

According to the International Monetary Fund, more than 70 percent of the world's economic growth is now taking place in developing countries, with almost a third of it in China.

Target Better, Reduce Costs?

Industry insiders weigh in on whether behavioral targeting enables advertisers to spend less while getting better results.

The Democracy of User-Generated Media

Trust in the power of the democracy, but understand the value of a lobbyist and get to know who wields the power in your areas of interest.

Gaining Ground with Behavioral Targeting

In the rapidly developing world of online marketing, Mediaplex's Sean Quick points out the different facets of behavioral marketing for the biggest gain.

The Snickers Factor: When Buzz Turns Bad

Although initial online reaction to the candy bar's Super Bowl ad was positive, New Media Strategies explains what went wrong that resulted in the company pulling it from its site.

Snapple's Recipe for Tasty Targeting

Discover how this big brand targeted its ideal customers, and what they learned along the way.

Good vs. Evil 2.0 in Open Media

At the iMedia Brand Summit's second day, blogging pioneer Jason Calacanis, now Sequoia Capital's entrepreneur in action, engaged a jammed room on how marketers can join conversations with consumers.

Newspapers Fight Back Online

Right Media's VP reports in from the Newspaper Association of America's marketing conference with some insight on the industry's future. Hint: Think online and local.

AOL's Falco: Consumers Are in Control

In an iMedia Brand Summit opening keynote address, AOL's Randy Falco shared his vision for the future of the internet and his new company.

Chrysler, Coke: New Brand Buzz Leaders

Check out recent innovations in word-of-mouth marketing from brands big and small.

Learn from Fall Pilot Errors

BrandIntel's lead media analyst examines what happens when marketers fail to monitor what fans embrace-- and what they cast off.

Let Search be Your Targeting Guide

Behavioral targeting's true value is its ability to deliver ads to those who have displayed -- through search -- intent to purchase. AlmondNet's founder and CEO explains.

Do User-Generated Ads Work Harder?

Regardless of who wins Super Bowl XLI, 2007 will be remembered as the year big brands let users create their Super Bowl ads. We review the participants and potential pitfalls.

Targeting Secrets of 5 Industries

See how behavioral targeting can tackle big marketing challenges.

Positives About Negative Product Reviews

Worried about opening your company to consumer reviews? Don't be. Bazaarvoice's VP explains why bad reviews are good for your business.

2007: The Year of People vs. Pages

Revenue Science's president and CEO shares five predictions for 2007, the year that the attention economy will take hold.

Top Secret BT Tips for Retailers

Behavioral targeting offers retailers great potential, but NetPlus Marketing's president and CSO says they must rethink how they calculate ROI.

Balance Brand Control with Users' Voices

Because ignoring the conversations happening all around you is no longer an option, Eluma's VP of marketing and biz development suggests ways to embrace them.

Segment to Get More ROI from Targeting

Revenue Science's account director shares five tips for building better audience segments.

Retargeting: There's More Than 1 Tactic

Technology is making it easier to bucket your site's users and market to them more effectively. Underscore Marketing's president shows you the nuts and bolts.

Second Life: Take Your Brand Virtually Everywhere

Check out this primer for marketing success in Second Life, as seen through the eyes of a marketer AND resident of this hot virtual world.

2007: The Year Users Will Make Your Ads

UGENmedia's co-founder/president predicts that advertiser demand for user-generated advertising will rise, consumer excitement will grow and the marketer/consumer relationship will be transformed.

How to Brand in User-Controlled Media

vSocial's CEO describes the dynamics of "Channel Me" and how marketers can be a part of this new media climate.

Paying for Blog Juice Could Be Illegal

The FTC's recent staff opinion might cast the legality of paid blogging programs in the U.S. in a questionable light. Underscore Marketing's president discusses what this opinion means for marketers.

Social Advertising, the Aristotle Way

Whyville's COO explains why social networking sites are so revolutionary, and cites a few examples of how brands have leveraged the Whyville website to reach future consumers.

Six Degrees of Nick Lachey?

Userplane's president and founder discusses the impact of celebrities and online social networks.

Quick & Painless Targeting Tips

Use these tips to get results without wasting too much time defining behavioral segments.

Casting Online for Techies

GlobalSpec's chief sales and marketing officer reveals the trends developing that will help you find, and hook, technical, engineering and industrial customers.

UGM Done Wrong Could Hurt You

As marketers rush to embrace cutting-edge user-generated marketing techniques, 121Media's senior marketing manager warns it could put their brands -- and their selves-- at risk.

Calling "Bull$#@!" on 3 Marketing Strategies

Sean X Cummings calls BS on three popular marketing strategies and offers tips on how to turn these mistakes into successes.

Get More from Your BT Campaign

Revenue Science Chief Revenue Officer Jeff Hirsch speaks with our news editor about his company, BT tips and what's ahead in the field.

How to Turn UGM into Business Results

NetPlus Marketing's VP of technology and creative lays out a game plan for harnessing user-generated media for media planning.

The Score: Blogs Gain Favor Worldwide

The research company examines blog visitation throughout North America and Western Europe.

Reach 70% of the Nation's Wealth

The president and chief strategist of Wilson Relationship Marketing Services tells you who controls the money and how to connect with them online.

Don't Just Sell, Solve!

How can you reach consumers? Freeweb's president writes that the answer is to offer online models that solve consumers' problems and a brand that adheres to their terms.

An Improved Version of BT

Is straight BT the answer? Underscore Marketing's COO explains that coupling site-side behavior with display media served on the web might be a better solution.

India: Emerging Market Online Powerhouse

DMO's chief marketing officer reports on how India is poised to build a $17-billion web-enabled industry by 2008.

Targeting Hard-to-Reach Customers

With available inventory getting tighter and prices increasing, here's how to target audiences in new and innovative ways without breaking the bank.

3 Big Brands Reinvent Themselves with Blogs

Take a look at brands that are engaging consumers with direct dialogue, and what you need to know for a successful blogging program.

Dispelling Myths about WOM

WOMMA's CEO takes issue with how many in the industry describe word-of-mouth marketing, and explains what it's really all about.

Moving Your Brand into New Markets

NextStage's founder discusses markets and what the current landscape is-- including how you can put markets, and buzz, to work for you.

Build a Stronger Agency/Publisher Team

Jumpstart Automotive Media's VP of product development explains why increased collaboration and communication on performance metrics can help ensure the success of campaigns-- and overall business partnerships.

The Score: Online Retail is Strong

Early indicators observed by the research company forecast a healthy holiday spending season online.

Where Does BT Go From Here?

In the wake of FTC hearings and advocacy groups calling for more regulation regarding data collection, industry insiders give their thoughts on the future of behavioral targeting.

Top 5 Films That Did Integration Right

Movie marketing blogger Thilk presents his -- very -- short list on successful integrated campaigns, and describes the requirements for studios to do a better job of driving web traffic and theater attendance.

Negative Feedback is an Opportunity

Real conversations can get negative, and so can conversational marketing. Underscore's president tells us about what AccuQuote did when it happened to them.

The Score: The Profile of Politics

According to research, visitors who frequent political sites also visit religious sites. Find out more about this audience.

4 Quick Tips: Marketing to Teens Online

Teens can spot a marketing poser from a mile away: here's how to engage them with your brand.

How to Create BT Segments

Publishers-- learn how to create a well-defined segment of users from Revenue Science's account director.

How to Earn WOM Recommendations

Word-of-mouth marketing doesn't just happen. Learn from these strategists what it takes to cultivate it.

Redefining Digital Ad Space for Autos

Winding Road's Bob Weber talks about how to tap into the valuable autos enthusiast market, and outlines why it's the right time to target them by integrating the strengths of print and online.

Coming Soon: The "Know-It-All" Patient

It could be a health marketer's worst nightmare-- or a dream come true. The "know-it-all" patient has arrived on the internet. HealthCentral Network's GM has the story.

5 Targeting Success Stories

Check out these successful targeting executions in various verticals and learn how their campaigns can improve your ROI.

What Conversational Marketing is NOT

Conversational marketing and word-of-mouth marketing are different; if you think they're the same, then you suffer under broadcast thinking's corrupting influence. Underscore Marketing's president explains.

Don't Just Blog-- Boost Business

AccuQuote's VP of marketing and business development shares successful strategies that have worked for his company.

When Out-of-Context Outperforms

BlueLithium execs highlight data that show behaviorally targeted ads placed out of context convert better for some product categories than in-context ads.

China: Don't Hold Your Breath Waiting

Yes, more than a billion consumers live there, but do they have money to spend? Our search editor reports from ad:tech Shanghai.

Search Drives Beauty Product Purchases

eMarketer reports that consumers are influenced by search results when making beauty product purchases.

What Facebook Offers Marketers

This web consultant went straight to the social networking site's chief revenue officer for insight on its latest initiatives.

CPG Advertisers Favor Online

Health and beauty brands favored the internet to TV and magazines as they reallocated ad dollars in the first half of 2006.

Forrester: On-Site BT is a Top Strategy

Touch Clarity's CMO shares results from recent Forrester research that show a relatively unknown tech solution has catapulted in significance-- and investment.

Preferred Advertising: Product Placement

eMarketer reports that 12-18 year olds prefer product placement to give-aways or blog marketing.

How to Reach Teens: IM or Email?

eMarketer reports that email may not always be the best way to reach the tween and teen market.

Market Like You Give a Damn

There's a wealth of marketing opportunity in social responsibility, especially when targeting youth demographics. Trend analyst Rebecca McQuigg explains why your brand can't afford to skimp on being generous.

Why You Should Put Consumers in Control

Find out how Nike, Diet Coke, Burger King and others opened their messaging for consumer-tinkering and lived to brag about the ROI.

Podcast: Maintaining Customer Dialogue

iMedia's search editor sits down with Sean Cheyney, VP of marketing and AccuQuote, to discuss how brands interact with their online customers.

Teen and Tween Media Consumption

eMarketer reports on where tweens and teens spend their time-- including TV, phone, internet and video games.

Podcast: Online Travel

Our managing editor sits down with Dean Harris, CMO of Kayak.com, to discuss online travel, vertical search and user-generated content at the recent iMedia Brand Summit.

The Score: Why Sports Can't Be Ignored

According to data, the Sports category now reaches nearly 40 percent of the total internet audience.

What Brand Attributes Make a Difference

Molecular's Steve Mulder & Ziv Yaar discuss how to prioritize your brand attributes for measurable business results.

Measure Word-of-Mouth Buzz

Word of mouth is all the rage-- but it's tough to gauge. Learn how to measure WOM's effect on your brand here.

Don't Advertise in Social Networks-- Yet

BzzAgent's founder and CEO says marketing with, not at, online communities will better generate word of mouth-- and sales.

How to Open up the In-Market Window

Jumpstart Automotive's CEO discusses precision targeting techniques that can help pinpoint in-market consumers more easily and cost effectively.

The Score: Wikis Aid UGC

comScore looks at the growing popularity of these collaborative tools, and who's using them and why.

Spam and Pharma Marketing

eMarketer reports that pharmaceutical companies are the biggest spam culprits, above porn and gambling properties.

How Pharma Reaches Its Audience

eMarketer reports on pharmaceutical advertising and how this sector is using interactive to push its message.

The Score: User-Generated News Grows

Analysis shows that sites offering user-generated news are increasing in popularity, visited by lucrative audience groups.

How to Measure Blog Influence

Dandelife.com's CEO gives step-by-step directions on how to gauge blog buzz around your brand.

The Agency's Role in a UGC World

As brands struggle to leverage user-generated content, this iMedia contributor says they should be looking to their agencies.

MySpace Traffic and Page Views

eMarketer reports on the number of average daily visitors, total page views and time spent on this social network site.

5 Step Plan for BT Beginners

Learn how to build a better marketing plan with behavioral targeting.

Online Travel Grows

eMarketer reports that more people are buying airline tickets online than ever before.

MySpace, Facebook and Bolt Boom

eMarkter reports that while the industry has grown by 4 percent, certain social networking sites have seen triple-digit growth.

WOM in the New Social Media Landscape

An ad:tech Chicago panel discussed the concept of word of mouth-- how it has changed, and how it continues to evolve.

Future of Pharma Marketing Online

HealthCentral Network's GM describes how recent legislation highlights the web's evolving role in health marketing.

The Right Brand Evangelist

Interested in launching a word-of-mouth campaign? BzzAgent's CEO describes your target brand evangelist.

Corporate Blogs in the U.S.

eMarketer reports that blogs, while an industry buzzword, haven't yet caught on in the corporate world.

Online Travel Marketing on The Move

SmarterLiving.com's Krista Pappas talks with our news editor about the challenges of the online travel industry, search engines and metrics that matter.

The Score: The Popularity of Blogs

Record numbers of people are now visiting blogs, proving that blog visitation is now part of mainstream online behavior for many internet users.

Advertisers Weigh in on BT

We asked some Amelia Island iMedia Summit attendees their thoughts on behavorial targeting. Here's what they had to say.

The Key to Engagement: Ads People Want

In his first iMedia byline, the Tacoda CEO talks about what engagement is, what it isn't, and what we need to do in order to engage with consumers.

WOM: Who's Spreading the Word?

Lucid Marketing's president writes about key findings from his company's recently released "Word of Mouth Communications Study Report."

Behavioral Retargeting 101

What is retargeting and what does it mean for you? Chapell Associates' manager of market intelligence explains.

MySpace in the Marketing Mix

Does MySpace deserve the hype? Mark Naples examines MySpace-- its strengths and its future as a marketing vehicle.

Derail Your Competition with Conquest Ads

Add your brand into the consumer's consideration set� even when the consumer is eyeing your competitor's product.

BT, Contextual Targeting and Video

Tremor Network's Jason Glickman chats about ad networks, interactive and combining behavioral and contextual targeting with video

Yes, You Can Predict Viral Marketing

Some marketers think that you can't control word-of-mouth marketing, but the NextStage CRO disagrees.

The Financial Services Media Mix

eMarketer looks at how the financial services sector advertises on the internet.

The Consumer Influence on Your Brand

iMedia's senior editor talks with CoreBrand's Brand Director Jonathan Paisner about the impact consumers have in shaping and marketing a brand.

The Death of Mass Marketing

eMarketer looks at the rise of ad targeting.

There's Nothing Wrong with "User"

But there's plenty that's bad about using the word "consumer" when it comes to consumer-generated content. Our exec editor explains why.

How to Use Social Media in B2B Marketing

The ITtoolbox CEO describes the differences between consumer communities of interest and professional communities of practice and explains how the latter create opportunities for B2B marketers.

Online Travel Sales to Boom

eMarketer reports that by 2010 roughly 46 percent of total travel sales will be booked online, second only to computer hardware/software in the B2C category.

When Bad Performance is Good

DRIVEpm's president explains why filtering is the mirror-twin of targeting and how it can generate equally effective results.

Podcast: Q&A with EchoTarget's Greg Smith

iMedia's executive editor talks with EchoTarget's CEO about the differences among BT solutions, how to choose a vendor and more.

How the Social Web Should Impact Strategy

Cymfony's chief strategy and marketing officer makes the case for incorporating social media into the marketing plan.

BT Puts Theory into Practice Online

The Revenue Science president and CEO illustrates how the evolution of online advertising is a great reflection of how academics study the mass media.

MySpace Meets American Idol

Contest Factory's CEO suggests UGM Bracketed Contests as a way to leverage consumer-generated content while still maintaining control of the campaign.

Getting More from BT

DRIVEpm's president steps into the shoes of a "concerned marketer" to write a letter about how careless behavioral targeting can go wrong, and what marketers can do to protect themselves.

What Marketers Can Learn From MySpace

The principal of the trend research company Zandl Group describes the attributes of social networking sites that marketers should apply to their strategies.

Consumers Respond to BT

Bill Harvey, author of TACODA's recent behavioral vs. contextual targeting studies, explains the significance of the results.

Start Using RSS Today!

See how content syndication can lead to Really Simple Success.

Maximize Web Encounters by Retargeting

The director of product development at Vendare explains how to develop a retargeting plan.

Behavioral Targeting's Effect on ROI

The 24/7 Real Media SVP of media and technology presents charts and data to help educate marketers.

Are Consumer-Generated Ads Here to Stay?

Experts opine on the current effectiveness of consumer-generated advertising and what will happen with it in the future.

Social Networking 101

nurun | ant farm interactive's executive vice president, North America, explains what social networks offer, and who should be using them in their marketing plan and why.

4 Steps to Better Campaign Performance

The VP of optimization services at DoubleClick explains why targeting alone is not enough.

4 Ways to Make BT Better

From easier executions to giving consumers more notice, here's how BT can move the industry forward.

What to Expect from CGC

Renegade execs predict that the branding opportunities of the future lie in filtering, repackaging and ultimately paying for quality consumer-generated content.

The Agency of the Future: Consumers

Five consumer-generated campaigns.

Exclusive Q&A with the NY AG's Office

Ken Dreifach, chief of the Internet Bureau in the Office of New York Attorney General Eliot Spitzer, talks about legal issues facing the online media world.

User-Generated Content Lessons

Marketers should pay attention and learn from the history of user-generated content in order to avoid making the same mistakes.

Social Networks and Viral Marketing

The NextStage CRO talks about joke lists, your online network, and how trust powers good word of mouth.

Behavioral Targeting Best Practices

Get your customer to the point of purchase with the right message at the right time, every time.

Q&A with WhenU's Bill Day

Chapell & Associates' president talks with WhenU's CEO about providing consumers value, branding, privacy and more.

Reaching the Travel Audience

USDM's CEO reports cities that created websites to attract visitors saw a massive influx of tourism.

Q&A With Claria's Scott Eagle

Our managing editor asks Claria EVP/CMO Scott Eagle about the company's new product and its decision to leave the adware business.

A Case for Behavioral Targeting

The president/creative director for Basement Inc. highlights results from the behavioral targeting element of a campaign, and provides insights as to why BT works.

Five BT Companies Reviewed

We examine the leading behavioral targeting companies and their capabilities.

Is There an Inventory Crisis?

David L. Smith, CEO of Mediasmith, examines the state of web inventory today and what marketers can do tomorrow.

BT Engages with People, Not Pages

Revenue Science's president and CEO talks about Battelle's "The Search" and explains why behavioral targeting is the perfect complement to search.

How Behavioral Targeting Fuels DR

NetPlus Marketing's president and chief strategy officer discusses the key elements for leveraging behavioral targeting to increase customer understanding and response.

Targeting Japanese Behavior

Through a unique partnership with Japan�s DAC, Revenue Science brings behavioral targeting to Japan.

BT: Like Shopping.com for Marketers

Poindexter Systems' SVP of client services describes how behavioral targeting helps marketers narrow down their placement choices.

BT: A Key to the Future of Marketing

In this interview with Draft's Brad Back, he tells us how to leverage consumer behavior knowledge for marketing on many levels.

iMedia Podcast: The Future of BT

Masha Geller talks with Revenue Science's Nick Johnson and Internet Broadcasting's Adam Gordon about where behavioral targeting is headed.

Behavioral Targeting Has More Visibility

A recent study shows that behavioral targeting is more engaging than contextual, particularly with increased frequency.

iMedia Podcast: The Power of BT

Next Century Media's CEO reports on research that shows behavioral targeting to be more effective than contextual targeting.

Retargeting Will Feature in Your Future

Even in an environment where online ad targeting becomes more effective every day, retargeting is something special.

Behavioral Targeting & Social Networking

Tracking how consumers behave when they're on their favorite sites -- is this a perfect storm for advertising?

Six Targeting Ideas for '06

DRIVEpm's president gives advice on how to boost success of your targeting efforts this year.

iMedia Podcast: Consumer Generated Content

CNET SVP of Games and Entertainment Vince Broady explains how to harness the power of consumer generated content.

A Lighthearted Look Ahead at Targeting

Revenue Science's president and CEO mixes sure bets and long shots in his list of behavioral targeting predictions for 2006.

Targeting, Search & Privacy Concerns

As search engines begin to employ behavioral targeting techniques, privacy issues are beginning to smolder; Chapell & Associates' president reports.

iMedia Podcast: Fox's Web Strategy

Fox Interactive Media President Ross Levinsohn speaks with Doug Weaver about News Corp's online ambitions.

Content, Targeting & Advertising

AdValiant's president describes how behavioral targeting boosts the value of content in a post-Google world.

Ross Levinsohn on Fox's Digital Charge

During Monday's iMedia Agency Summit keynote, Fox Interactive's president described how the News Corp. media giant is working to build a broad online base.

Claria Expands Behavioral Technology

Early next year, Claria will introduce Personal Web, a software download that will serve up content recommendations to consumers' home pages.

Personalizing Search

There are two models of personalized search emerging, one of which focuses on user input (behavior).

Targeting for Dummies

DRIVE Performance Media's president gives you a step-by-step plan to create a successful online targeting program.

Automotive Industry Drives Behavioral

A panel at a recent automotive summit discussed the significance of behavioral targeting, issues still to solve and what the future holds.

MSN Late to Search Market with New Tools

Although late, MSN delivers a powerful new tool for advertisers, the first in a new campaign to lead the online ad space.

iMedia Podcast: Me Media

Dipsie's Sean Cummings discusses with Editor at Large Masha Geller the nature of online culture and what that means for advertisers.

Behavioral Targeting -- Just the Facts

Revenue Science's CEO explains why behavioral targeting minimizes advertising costs and maximizes visibility.

Targeting Review: DRIVEpm

Contributor Robert Moskowitz gets under the hood of DRIVEpm, AQuantive's new targeting division.

After the Storm: Bloggers Save the Day

New Media Strategies CEO Pete Synder writes how the most multi-faceted and extensive word-of-mouth campaign was not a product of marketers, but bloggers.

Safecount Q&A with Starcom's Mike Zeman

Brad Berens chats with Safecount board member Mike Zeman about the fight to save cookies.

Integrate '05 Coverage Continues

At iMedia and Variety's Integrate '05 Summit, Rick Parkhill chatted about entertainment marketing with agency execs; later, Carat and Sony presented case studies.

Dark Clouds Loom over Movie Marketing

Movie marketers at Integrate '05 discussed possible reasons behind recent box office gross failings.

Consumer Generated Content

Editor at Large Joseph Jaffe outlines a bold new alternative to traditional advertising where consumers are willing participants in the communication process.

Examining the Role of Political Blogs

A report released last week suggests blogs are an add-on to mainstream media.

Targeting Technology Steps Forward

A look at where the trend toward precision delivery of content is going.

Spyware, Adware, and the Future

New iMedia contributor Isaac Scarborough of Chapell & Associates reports on last week's NAI conference on spyware.

The Fittest Will Survive

Revenue Science's Bill Gossman explains why, in a Darwinian world, the IP-fueled internet model will win the evolutionary war.

Preaching to the Converted

The CooperKatz & Company VP reminds us that your customer evangelists are in the blogosphere just waiting to shepherd your message.

Q&A with Jumpstart's Mitch Lowe

With automotive consumers turning to the web as often as they go to a dealer's show room, the stakes for auto sites have never been higher.

Blogs: Phenomena or Force? (Part 3)

Advance.net's Jeff Jarvis answered iMedia Brand Summit attendee's questions about consumer-generated media.