iMedia Connection: Cover Stories - XML

How 5 brands took huge risks on controversial content

Deborah Bates

In a bid to stand out, more and more brands are publishing controversial content. In some cases, it has paid off; in others, not so much. Here's a look at the winners and losers.

3 big brands that don't want -- or need -- an agency

Michael Estrin

Not every brand uses an agency. These companies prefer to keep the work in-house. Find out why.

How to explain your job to a 10-year-old

iMedia Editors

Digital marketing is full of mind-blowingly complex job titles. We asked several industry professionals to explain theirs to a small child. Could you have done better?

5 reasons I hate big data

Chris Marriott

The current frenzy surrounding so-called "big data" is not likely to have a positive impact on marketing in the near term. Here's why embracing the topic as an all-or-nothing proposition will stall your progress.

4 brands that emotionally connect with consumers

Gordon Plutsky

A loyal customer is someone who feels a strong connection with a brand. Here's how to add emotion to your marketing.

The metrics that will make your CMO love you

John Ellett

Most of the measurements that you obsess over don't mean a thing to your executive team. These are the ones that do.

Top 5 hottest social media tools

Rebecca Debono

Behind every successful social media marketer is an arsenal of tools that help ideate, implement, and track the success of a campaign. Here are the best of the best.

What your resume really says about you

Reid Carr

A resume or LinkedIn profile doesn't paint a complete professional picture of a person. But here are some things it does say to prospective employers.

10 hilarious digital media parodies

Chloe Della Costa

If you can't see the value in great satire, you're missing out. Here are the best and funniest spoofs and parodies that resonate with digital marketers.

6 mobile ads that people loved

Hagay Elyakim

HTML5 is changing the game in mobile. Check out these rich media ads that increased both conversions and brand loyalty.

Why your C-suite needs a social and digital rock star

Noam Kostucki

Is your executive team undervaluing digital marketing? Here's how to know if you should be making room for a new C-level role.

The 5 hottest job opportunities in digital marketing

Robert Rose

Whether you're a recent graduate or an industry veteran, here are the emerging marketing roles that you should be eyeing if you want a secure and profitable future.

A brand marketer's guide to speaking with the press

Mark Naples

If you haven't had training in handling the press, consider this your cheat sheet. Here are six perspectives to help you prepare.

7 ways you're wasting your time

Drew Hubbard

Is your job plagued by inefficiency? Let's take a look at the areas where you can reclaim some productivity.

4 secrets of a successful digital content strategy

Miranda Anderson

Wake up, marketers! The magic of content marketing isn't in the substance -- it's in the strategy. Here's how to plan your way to the top.

7 brands that Millennials love (and why)

Matt Jacobs

Millennials require the most individualized advertising ever. Here are the brands that are doing a great job reaching so-called Generation Connected.

The biggest reason advertising is failing

Joseph Dumont

Digital marketing is in serious trouble, and many brands don't know why. Here are the most colossal reasons consumers are becoming desensitized to advertising.

11 essential tools for link building

Kent Lewis

It's vital for SEO professionals to integrate the power of persuasion via third parties into their strategies. Here are some simple tools to help you do just that.

The 8 worst things to say at an agency

Drew Hubbard

If you're sloppy with your language, you're being careless with your job. Here are the statements marketers must eliminate before losing total respect.

6 assets to focus on instead of your resume

Reid Carr

If you're relying on a polished resume to land that next job in digital, you're in trouble. Here are the other tools that hiring managers consider even more valuable.

How to turn your social efforts into gold

Ken Burke

Deriving ROI from social investments is possible only when brands learn how to connect community and commerce. Learn how to conquer today's ultimate marketing challenge.

The 5 most common big data screw-ups

Amy Masters

Many marketers are using big data in ineffective, illogical, or incomplete ways. Let's look at the most common offenses.

5 anti-social brands that should know better

Lauren Friedman

At this point, if your company isn't active on social media, you're late to the party. Here are the brands that seriously need to work on their social skills.

9 outrageous bribes received by agencies

Chloe Della Costa

Agencies receive all sorts of gifts, incentives, or straight-up bribes from vendors courting their business. Here are the hilarious (and sometimes shocking) stories of nine marketers' most memorable presents.

10 ways to guarantee a losing social campaign

Joseph Carrabis

If you're using any of these tactics in social, you will fail or spend loads of money avoiding disaster. Here's exactly what not to do when running your campaign.

8 ways to piss off your LinkedIn connections

Josh Dreller

Are you a LinkedIn misfit? If you're making any of these moves, you might be sending the wrong message to your professional network.

7 ways to win laughs in social media

Drew Hubbard

Comedy in social media can easily backfire. But when humor hits the spot, everyone wins. Here's how the funniest brands in social pull it off.

Why "native advertising" must die

Lori Luechtefeld

The term "native advertising" might seem innocuous, but it threatens the very foundations of publishing and marketing. Here are the dirty little secrets our industry needs to acknowledge.

3 ridiculous mobile design assumptions to avoid

Kimberly Struyk

Mobile website design is still in its infancy, and mistakes are often made in the development process. Here's how to avoid a flawed plan from the get-go.

Rebrandings that failed miserably

Tricia Despres

Did New Coke teach us nothing? Don't screw with a good thing. Here are the lessons we learned when these beloved brands dared to toy with their own images.

The war between programmatic buying and creativity

Michael Estrin

You've heard the pitch: Deliver the right message to the right person at the right time. But is that a promise an agency can really keep?

10 brands exposed as total hypocrites

Chloe Della Costa

Even the most successful companies often fail to practice what they preach. Here are the brands that got called out on their two-faced marketing efforts.

Awesome ads that saved lame products

Sean X

We all know that the "sheeple" of the world are easily conned by slick marketing. Here are the insanely brilliant ad campaigns that drove sales for lackluster products.

4 brands that really stretch their social dollars

Keith Pape

Sure, it's easy to be "always on" in social if you have limitless resources. But most brands don't. Here's how to make it seem like you do.

5 questions to ask before accepting a new client

Drew Hubbard

Firing a client is stressful and wastes countless resources. To avoid an ugly breakup down the road, be sure to ask these invaluable questions up front.

The 7 hardest marketing jobs to fill

Paul Gorrell

Recruiters are fiercely fighting over a small set of marketing professionals with certain skills. Here are the job openings that agencies are competing to fill.

9 reasons your marketing should include cats

David Zaleski

Want your campaign to go viral? Here's why adding cats to your digital strategy will deliver blockbuster results.

8 ways brands are screwing up content aggregation

Rebecca Lieb

Content aggregation has become integral to marketing and branding, but many organizations fail to follow some very basic rules. Are you one of them?

How younger and older employees can work in harmony

Josh Dreller

Each generation in our digital workforce has both strengths and weaknesses. While it's good to know what they are, beware -- labels can be misleading.

50 good reasons to quit digital marketing

Kent Lewis

This industry is a lot more complex than many people think. If any of these statements resonate with you, consider giving up digital marketing as a career.

The ultimate guide to creating a solid brand strategy

Jim Meskauskas

To build a successful strategy, you must first understand what your brand means to your customers. Here are the five questions you should ask yourself.

The 7 most annoying people on Twitter

Drew Hubbard

Your Twitter presence says a lot about you as a marketing professional. If you find yourself in any one of these buckets, you're irritating a lot of people.

The 5 most overlooked metrics

Brandt Dainow

Are you one of the many marketers guilty of ignoring valuable metrics? It's not too late. To gain serious competitive advantage, consider the data most marketers forget.

5 new developments in content marketing

Brian Clark

Content marketing isn't new, but its best practices continue to evolve. Here are the latest developments that should be influencing your strategy.

Why marketers should care about do-not-track

Geoff Gieron

If you want to make real connections with your customers, you must respect them. It's time to take DNT seriously.

The 4 biggest myths about programmatic buying

Eric Picard

Online media buying is undergoing a renaissance, but most marketers don't even know it. Here are the most widely believed fallacies regarding programmatic buying.

How to snag your dream job in digital

Lucia Davis

Our industry is rife with opportunities, but candidates continue to sabotage their career paths. Five experts weigh in on how to win -- or lose -- your ideal digital job.

7 more bad habits that are ruining your career

Jim Nichols

You think of them as your little "quirks." Others see them as serious personality flaws that impede your ability to get the job done. Here's why.

4 masters of the owned media universe

Taulbee Jackson

Thanks to the internet, companies can now produce their own content and share it with the world. Here's how big companies like Red Bull and Nike streamline the process.

4 small agencies that scored big clients

Tricia Despres

Bigger isn't always better. Here's how boutique shops scored impressive clients in 2012 -- and how they plan to do it again this year.

How to get a promotion this year

David Zaleski

Are you destined to be stuck in the same position forever? Not if you follow the advice of these executives from BMW, Capital One, General Mills, Macy's, Fox Sports, and more.

5 ways we're still botching mobile

Lucia Davis

A lot of today's mobile marketing gets under our skin -- and not in a good way. Here are the mobile marketing practices that need to improve or die.

6 ways to control a social media crisis

Mark Naples

Someone screwed up in your company, and the backlash is happening online. Use these tips to keep from being buried by a social media eruption.

Why big data is the sexiest new marketing tool

Josh Dreller

Big data is this year's buzziest buzz phrase -- but does more data really mean better data? You bet it does. Here's why data scientists will revolutionize your marketing.

Simple ways to make your employees happier

Julie Roehm

Throwing money at disgruntled employees won't solve your company's culture problems. Here are some simple (and less expensive) strategies that will.

10 startup techniques to jump-start your brand

Dave Knox

Acting like a startup is more than just about taking risks -- it's about bringing passion and determination into every business decision. Here's how.

5 signs your brand is becoming uncool

Drew Hubbard

Popularity does not maintain itself. Here are the signs that your brand's cool factor is on the decline -- and some ways to counteract the lameness.

6 ways you're wasting money on video

Marc Mallett

In advertising, mistakes cost money. Here are the common and easy-to-fix gaffes that marketers make in digital video.

The 8 types of people who "like" your brand

Peter Platt

Not all of your Facebook fans are out there singing your brand's praises. Sometimes the opposite is true. Let's take a look at who truly "likes" your brand.

9 ways to guarantee a winning social campaign

Joseph Carrabis

There are many reasons why social efforts fail, but there are far fewer that explain success. Out of more than 400 companies studied, here are the top strategies that led to thriving social campaigns.

9 marketing strategies you must stop using -- now

Kent Lewis

As a digital marketer, you're tasked with keeping up with the times. Using these outdated techniques in 2013 guarantees poor results.

The 7 worst things to say when pitching a new idea

Drew Hubbard

For an industry that revolves around the art of the pitch, some marketers are quite bad at it. If you're trying to sell your great idea, don't let these words come out of your mouth.

5 digital marketers who kicked butt at their new jobs

Tricia Despres

A new job represents a new opportunity to make a name for yourself in digital. Meet the marketers who have been impressing people at their new gigs.

5 brave ads that rocked the boat

Chloe Della Costa

It's always refreshing to see creative that dares to shake things up. Here's what you can learn from a courageous advertisement.

Stupid questions you shouldn't ask in an interview

Denise Zimmerman

If you believe there are no stupid questions, then you haven't sat through enough job interviews. Here are the ones that constantly sink candidates.

Should you kill your social media bots?

Michael Estrin

Social media bots can be valuable scheduling tools for your brand, but they can do real damage when left unattended. Before you hand over the reins, heed this advice.

10 industry buzzwords that need to die

Kaitlin Carpenter

Our industry loves to ruin a perfectly good phrase. Here are the ones that we've recently used to the point of irritating excess.

The ultimate guide to cross-channel campaign management

Amielle Lake

CCCM offers marketers reduced cost-per-action, higher conversions, and comprehensive customer profiling across the entire media mix. Isn't it time you started looking at the bigger picture?

4 brands that are taking Tumblr by storm

Jenn Deering Davis

Your customers are on Tumblr. Are you? Here are the opportunities you are missing -- and the brands that are taking advantage.

15 CES innovations that change the game for marketers

Bethany Simpson

Consumer tech is weirder than ever. From interactive digital credit cards to "smart" forks, we went inside CES to find the innovations that will have the biggest impact on marketers.

Responsive design for dummies

Evan Gerber

Responsive design is revolutionary in terms of the flexibility it provides web designers as well as business owners. Here are some of the key fundamentals that designers, marketers, and product owners must understand before getting started.

6 ways brands can become more "likable"

Matt Rosenberg

As the flow of sponsored communication increases, people are becoming more reluctant to "like" brands on Facebook. These insights will help you gain fans both online and off.

6 tech trends you can ignore in 2013

Eric Anderson

A lot of the widely touted "trends to watch this year" don't need to be watched at all. They're baloney. Would you like to know which ones?

5 tell-tale signs that your agency is lying to you

Nicole Rawski

Has your agency promised to make something go viral? Are your web analytics being held hostage? Newsflash: You're being lied to.

5 reasons you should quit your job

Drew Hubbard

Is your company holding you back or otherwise abusing you? Here are the red flags that mean you might want to head for the door.

The 12 worst things that could happen to marketers in 2013

Bethany Simpson

What challenges will the new year bring? We asked leaders from GroupM, OMD, and more for their direst predictions. Read on, if you dare!

9 reasons your infographic stinks

Lisa Wehr

Some marketers have really missed the boat on what makes a good infographic. Here are the most common offenses.

10 resolutions marketers must make for 2013

Drew Hubbard

Do you set goals for the new year only to lose your drive come February? Make this year count by keeping these critical digital marketing resolutions.

5 secrets for getting big dollars from big brands

Bob Gilbreath

There have never been more digital startups entering the marketplace, but most are struggling to reach the people who control the purse strings. Here's how they need to modify their approaches.

5 ways to fix the broken agency partnership model

Adam Kleinberg

The perception of our industry is that agencies can't form effective partnerships. That doesn't have to be true. Here's how to break the cycle of bad relationships.

How Google's Panda and Penguin are affecting your site's rankings

Kent Lewis

Has your site been demoted by Google's algorithm updates Panda and Penguin? Here's how to prevent a deadly drop in search rankings and stay in Google's good graces.

2012 in digital: Summed up in 10 quotes

Jim Nichols

Our industry has seen a lot of action over the last 12 months. Check out these quotations that let you relive the year in just a few poignant sentences.

Top 10 digital marketing tweets

Bethany Simpson

We combed the web for the funniest, most poignant tweets from the digital marketing industry. Did your tweet make our list?

The 8 best social media campaigns of 2012

Lauren Friedman

It's been an exciting year in social media marketing. Here are the brands that did great things on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and YouTube.

Step-by-step guide to planning a killer social campaign

Melonie Gallegos

A successful social campaign stems from creativity, ingenuity, consistency, and a solid foundation that holds it all in place. Here is the bedrock of social media success.

6 trends that will shape digital in 2013

Peter Platt

2013 is not going to be "the year of the [fill in the blank]." It's going to be a year of building on past successes. Here's how you should be preparing.

6 seller secrets to building a killer branded website

Jim Nichols

Brands that don't sell online can learn a lot from the people who make a living by getting us to "buy now." All marketers would do well to heed this advice.

iMedia Agency Award Winners 2012

iMedia Editors

iMedia presents its list of 2012 Agency Award winners. These agencies, honored at the iMedia Agency Summit, are the key drivers of industry innovation in areas such as social media, video, mobile, and more.

4 signs it's time to fire your client

Drew Hubbard

Brands don't always fire agencies. In fact, sometimes it's the agency that needs to show a brand the door. Here are the red flags that signal a doomed partnership.

The 10 most-watched video campaigns of 2012

Matt Fiorentino

When brands convince consumers to seek out their video ads, it pays off. See which brands succeeded this year.

8 campaigns that broke the rules and still went viral

Jim Nichols

There's a lot of conventional wisdom about what makes campaigns go viral. However, these brands proved that even the most accepted rules can be thrown out in lieu of a good idea.

10 epic marketing fails of 2012

Michael Estrin

When marketing goes bad, it goes really bad. Find out which brands failed the hardest this year.

The ultimate checklist for startup agencies

Dimple Thakkar

Fledgling entrepreneurs and successful business owners alike can benefit from reviewing the nuts and bolts of building a startup. Follow these steps to create an efficient, cost-effective, and focused agency.

8 ways that Facebook drives marketers crazy

Tricia Despres

Marketers today might need Facebook. But that doesn't mean they like it. These are the snags they most commonly encounter on the now-ubiquitous platform.

The 9 dumbest ways to measure social media

Kent Lewis

Those numbers don't mean what you think they mean. Here's how to fix your otherwise broken system of social measurement.

16 surprising predictions for 2013

Bethany Simpson

We asked Mark Cuban and top executives from Google, MasterCard, Jaguar Land Rover, and 12 other companies how budgets and trends will change next year. Their answers surprised us.

5 topics that will get a social media manager fired

Drew Hubbard

Brands are not people, and they shouldn't behave like them in social media. Here are the subjects that community managers should avoid if they want to keep their sanity -- and jobs.

How to safely experiment with social media marketing

Greg Kihlstrom

Trying new online advertising tactics is a frightening -- albeit necessary -- part of the job. Here's how to take strategic chances without compromising your overarching marketing strategy.

The iMedia 25: Digital's most innovative marketers

iMedia Editors

iMedia presents its 2012 list of cutting-edge creatives, strategists, and technology thought leaders. See who made the cut!

11 critical areas where marketing measurement matters

Josh Dreller

Measurement is a vital part of the advertising process that enables marketers to make educated and impactful decisions. Here are the essential areas that you should be monitoring.

The 5 most common analytics mistakes

Matthew Anthony

Almost everyone in marketing is trying to get a handle on how to use analytics to meet their KPIs. Here's why so many of them are getting it wrong.

Why employers are laughing at your resume

Sean X

You send out your resume again and again, but no one responds. It's almost like potential employers are silently mocking you. Here's why they won't give you the time of day.

5 sure-fire ways to piss off a blogger

Drew Hubbard

Too few brands give thought to how blogger outreach programs can backfire. Here are the sometimes-not-obvious ways that marketers insult the very people they hope to woo.

4 reasons you're not as agile as you think

Simon Ward

You're likely using agile marketing techniques already, but there are common problems that may be counteracting your efforts. Here are the issues you need to address.

The best and worst brands on Instagram

Lauren Friedman

About 40 percent of top brands use Instagram. But that doesn't mean they use it well. Check out these examples of the best uses (and abuses) of this popular visual platform.

3 ways to stop wasting time on social media

Drew Hubbard

If your social process is a disruptive time-suck, you need to streamline your efforts. Here's how to free up your time for what really matters in social -- engagement.

The 5 metrics that really matter

Peter Platt

It's time for marketers to stop talking about clicks and impressions and instead focus on what's important -- business results. Here's how to understand the true impact of your digital efforts.

New tactics for getting hired in digital

Bethany Simpson

If you're relying on networking, headhunters, and a solid work history to get you your next job, you're going to have a hard time. Here are the tactics today's superstars are using to get hired.

6 reasons you should fire your employee

Tricia Despres

Are the warning signs there? Let's take a look at a few reasons your organization and an employee might need to part ways.

2 critical campaign elements you can't do without

Vanessa Turner

More than 50 percent of all U.S. consumers use smartphones, which is why savvy marketers approach all projects from a mobile and social perspective. Are you up to speed?

7 reasons people hate being in meetings with you

Adam Kleinberg

Just look around the table. Look at those aggravated, disengaged faces. They don't want to be in this conference room with you. Here's why.

6 tips for creating mind-blowing infographics

Michael Estrin

There's an art to creating great infographics, so it takes guidance from industry experts to turn your data into a meaningful message. Here's their best advice.

Design rules you need to break

Evan Gerber

The best practices for desktop web design are broken in the mobile world. Here are the conventions that need to be discarded in this new world of touch and multiple device types.

How to media plan for an uncertain digital future

Jim Meskauskas

How does one put together a long-term digital campaign that is consistent and relevant in the face of constant change? The answer might surprise you.

Stupid things that job candidates do

Julie Roehm

It's tough out there for job seekers, but some of them are really making it hard on themselves. Here are the ridiculous -- and entertaining -- bloopers that hiring companies see every day.

Why visual storytelling is the future of digital

Chas Edwards

We live in a Facebook, Pinterest, and Instagram era in which consumers are infatuated with creating and sharing images online. Brands, it's time to dive in.

6 opportunities for Facebook's new "want" button

David Clarke

With its new "want" button, Facebook has the opportunity to reinvent social commerce. Here's a glimpse into what the future might hold.

10 painfully common mistakes that buyers make

Andrew Ettinger

Amateur and veteran media buyers alike are guilty of committing a number of everyday blunders. Here's a rundown of the top mistakes buyers should avoid.

The 6 most important social media analytics

Lisa Wehr

To get a handle on what's working within social initiatives, there are several metrics that will help you the most. Here they are.

3 brands that are innovating on YouTube

Drew Hubbard

Even though you don't have big bucks to spend on a glitzy video production, you can still make your YouTube channel a fun and engaging hub. Go ahead and steal these interactive ideas from top brands.

4 bad seller behaviors that need to end

Sean Cheyney

Why does our industry still have a pervasive problem with the expectations that occur between buyers and sellers? Here are the behaviors that continue to give salespeople (and buyers) a bad name.

Shady brand tactics that work

Sean X

Let's be real here. From a numbers standpoint, questionable marketing tactics often work. But is it really worth sacrificing long-term brand health for a short-term revenue spike? You decide.

The laziest brand posts on Facebook

Drew Hubbard

Come on, brands. At least try to make us believe that your heart is in this social media thing. When you put up these types of posts, we have to wonder.

5 reasons to redesign your website

Joseph Carrabis

Don't throw away good money redesigning your online property without understanding the underlying problems. Here's why your site is under-performing and how to fix it.

Social media tools for the smart agency

Scott Fiaschetti

New social media solutions are emerging every day, but not all of them are worth the investment. Here's how to sift through the clutter.

5 digital trends you need to embrace

Kent Lewis

As our industry quickly evolves, it's essential to accept the new tools and strategies that will help us succeed. Here are the trends marketers can't afford to ignore.

iMedia 25: 2012 Agencies to Watch

iMedia Editors

iMedia presents its 2012 list of key agencies that move, shape, and lead digital. See which ones made the cut!

Why Facebook's valuation shouldn't worry marketers

Doug Schumacher

Wall Street values Facebook much differently than marketers who use the platform to promote their businesses. This data proves that Facebook isn't a marketing bust.

11 mobile startups that will change marketing

Kyle Montero

The iMedia community has spoken: Here are the best mobile startups in the media and marketing landscape. What can they do for you?

11 mistakes to avoid on your digital marketing resume

Bethany Simpson

We asked senior digital marketers from Kraft, American Express, Major League Baseball, and more about the reasons they reject candidates. Don't make these common mistakes.

4 secrets to successful content marketing

Jacqueline McDermott Lisk

Most businesses have gotten wise to the notion that they need to formulate a content marketing strategy. Those that fail forget to follow these vital steps.

9 infographics marketers need to see

Jim Nichols

Good infographics present information in a clear, entertaining, and telegraphic way. These illustrations are tailor-made for the viewing pleasure of the inquisitive marketer.

5 reasons Pinterest is overhyped for brands

Tricia Despres

Although Pinterest might be the perfect home for some visual-centric brands, it's going to be a tough sell for others. Let's take a look at the platform's current limitations.

Why brands aren't becoming publishers

Jack Krawczyk

The spread of social media may enable brands to regularly produce their own content -- but even publishers have yet to master it. Here's why brands can't become publishers on their own.

Facebook's Open Graph: 5 things marketers must know

Brad Klaus

Open Graph is a formidable force that is changing the way brands and consumers interact. Consider how it will affect your marketing in the immediate future.

How to master tech investment decisions at an agency

Julian Baring

The ability to make the optimum technology investments is becoming an even more critical success factor for agencies. Here's how to make the right choices.

4 ways to become an Instagram rock star

Drew Hubbard

If your brand isn't on Instagram, that's your first problem. Follow these tips to remedy that mistake and avoid others.

Your guide to mobile tracking with Google Analytics

Brandt Dainow

As more people use smartphones to go online, the need for proper measurement is crucial. Here's how to track mobile activity and ensure accurate results

7 reasons people think you're too old to work in digital

Jim Nichols

Are you too old to work and succeed in digital? Here are the reasons why those around you might think you are -- along with concrete ways you can prove them wrong.

Why there's no sexism problem in digital

Dimple Thakkar

Despite an abundance of resources, the topic of women facing discrimination in the tech and digital world doesn't seem to change or go away. Read one CEO's take on the problem.

6 design considerations for touch tech

Evan Gerber

The touch paradigm is fundamentally altering when, where, and how we interact with brands. Here's how to design for a future where touch will rule.

5 reasons your brand doesn't need Facebook

Peter Platt

Everybody is on Facebook, so your brand has to be there. Or does it? Consider these reasons why you might be wasting too many resources on the platform.

4 broken promises agencies make to brands

Drew Hubbard

Agencies don't want to get fired, so they tell their clients what they want to hear -- but then fail to deliver. Be on the lookout for these common agency lies.

4 reasons Facebook ads flop

David Rollo

If your ads aren't working, it probably isn't Facebook's fault. It's yours. Let's take a look at how advertisers can avoid these common errors.

9 radical technologies transforming digital marketing

Bethany Simpson

Near-field communication and Google's Project Glass are just the beginning. Find out what cool new technologies will soon be driving your digital marketing strategy.

How your brand is abusing social networks

Robert Rose

Social media accidents happen. But some brand missteps are deliberate. Here are the common ways in which marketers continue to misuse Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Pinterest.

iMedia's Top 10 Hottest Digital Marketers of 2012

iMedia Editors

It's that time of year again, folks. Our annual summer scorcher reveals the smoothest and the savviest marketers of 2012. (Is it getting warm in here?)

Brands breeding loyalty through digital

Kyle Montero

Smart brands are leveraging digital platforms to not only find customers but to also build relationships. Meet the 20 companies that are doing it best.

YouTube video basics from its brightest stars

Michael Estrin

Want to grow your brand's presence on YouTube? Consider these essential lessons in video from four YouTube sensations.

The 7 deadly sins of Pinterest

Raj Kadam

It's easy to jump on the Pinterest bandwagon, but it's not so easy to foster an engaged community of users. Avoid these common brand transgressions.

Why agile marketing is the future of digital advertising

Simon Ward

The roles of brand manager and digital marketer are both essential to brand health -- yet neither is without fault. Discover how an agile brand management system can help align your strengths.

7 Facebook marketing myths that will sink a campaign

Lisa Wehr

Marketers have a lot of misconceptions about what does and doesn't work on Facebook. Here are some common fallacies that many people in the industry take as fact.

The ultimate guide to video marketing on YouTube

Kent Lewis

Video is the darling of the marketing world, but many don't yet know how to use it. Learn about YouTube best practices, optimization essentials, analytics, and much more in this article.

The dangers of Pinterest

Michael Estrin

Does your brand have a Pinterest strategy? These six questions will help you get the ball rolling and plan for the hurdles you'll encounter.

What buyers want to hear from sellers

Andrew Ettinger

Dishonesty, arrogance, and excessive industry jargon can plague buyer-seller relationships. Here's how to avoid painful interactions by understanding what buyers actually want.

The 5 myths of marketing to Millennials

Eric Anderson

You'd be surprised how much of the hype surrounding Millennials is total hogwash. Consider these common misconceptions.

10 ways to be a rock star social media manager

Aaron Weissman

Here's how to ensure that you're the most effective, organized, and happy brand ambassador you can be.

The most meaningless (and hilarious) job titles on LinkedIn

Josh Dreller

When on Earth did it become standard practice for people in our industry to invent absurd titles for themselves? Here are the gurus, ninjas, demi-gods, and overlords of the internet. Heaven help us.

5 brands that are Instagram superstars

Tom Edwards

Visual storytelling and social curation are now at the core of the social experience. Here are the brands that people love on Instagram.

Brands that mastered the art of subtlety

Victoria Young

Sophisticated marketers know how to leverage platforms to effectively convey a brand's story online. Here's how ditching obvious self-promotion can help you make real connections with consumers.

7 essential rules for tablet design

Evan Gerber

Brands should be creating tablet-optimized experiences that take advantage of the unique features of these devices. Check out these case studies that show best practices in action.

3 lousy branded YouTube channels

Greg Jarboe

YouTube's new channel layouts make it easier for brands to showcase exactly what they want, but some are failing to deliver. Here are examples of what not to do when creating your brand's channel.

Brands that failed with gamification

Adam Kleinberg

Gamification is a powerful tool, but it isn't a magic bullet. See why even big brands like Zappos, Google, and Marriott haven't figured it out yet.

Why luxury brands are dominating SoLoMo

Brinda Cockburn

Fifty-seven percent of the wealthy want the latest in gadgets and technology, compared to only 18 percent of the general population. Read on for why SoLoMo marketing is essential for high-end brands.

16 lesser-known marketing blogs you should read

Michael Estrin

Which blogs are must-reads for digital marketers? Our recommendations might surprise you.

9 buzzwords that ignite followers

Drew Hubbard

What makes a great post in social media? The inclusion of powerful buzzwords. Here's a guide to the most effective words and how to put them to work.

5 reasons your digital startup will fail

Dave Knox

Many startups build their businesses around brand marketing dollars, but they don't invest enough effort in truly understanding their customers. Here's how to avoid common points of disconnect.

How to capitalize on the power of social recommendations

Jeff Ragovin

You may not see eye-to-eye with friends and family, but their recommendations are still tempting. Here's how brands can benefit from the herd mentality.

Digital's 5 biggest trends to watch

Katelyn Watson

What trends have shaped the digital marketing landscape the most over the last six months? Here are our top picks.

11 innovative movie marketing campaigns

Bethany Simpson

Here are behind-the-scenes stories from visionary campaigns for "The Hunger Games," "The Avengers," "Ted," "Prometheus," "X-Men: First Class," "Snow White and the Huntsman," and more.

5 fresh ways to socialize your emails

Ryan Phelan

It's not enough to just slap Facebook and Twitter icons on your email and call it a day. Here are a few lesser-known ways you can make social media and email work together.

Looking for a new job? LinkedIn can help

Jim Nichols

The world's largest professional social network has made a lot of changes since you first logged on years ago. Learn the tools and the professional etiquette that make this powerful platform work its hardest.

How to kick-start a culture of innovation

David Rubinstein

Innovation requires a delicate balance of creativity and calculated risks. They say there's a fine line between madness and genius -- here's how ensure your brand stays on the smart side.

9 ways to screw up advocacy marketing

Brian Cavoli

So you want to get people talking about your brand in a way that influences your bottom line? Here's a list of places where you might be going wrong.

6 brands that "get" gamers

Hal Halpin

Gaining visibility and credibility with gamers is fraught with challenges but rife with opportunities. Here are the brands that are really tapping into this growing demographic.

6 ways to be a Pinterest superstar

Britt Peterson

Don't just pin -- provoke, peruse, and play. If you want to really tap into the power of Pinterest, consider implementing these tactics.

Why your metrics are lying

Drew Hubbard

Metrics are notorious for communicating mistruths, but how do marketers defend against data dishonesty? Here are five misleading metrics and how to avoid falling into their traps.

Stupid (but common) resume mistakes

Julie Roehm

If you want to get your foot in the door with a prospective employer, you better look good on paper. Consider these common slip-ups that marketers make when compiling their resumes.

The truth about engagement

Joseph Carrabis

Without a deep understanding of human engagement, brands blindly waste interactive technologies. Here's a template to help you connect with consumers digitally.

12 videos that went viral this month

Bethany Simpson

Looking for your next big marketing idea? Here's what audiences went crazy for this month.

9 startups that marketers will love

Jim Nichols

The most successful brands are particularly adept at finding the startups that are going to make a big difference in the marketing landscape. Consider these companies that hold great promise.

Your guide to the new sales funnel

Kent Lewis

As marketers, our job is to "sell" sexy, yet we must rely heavily on data and process in order to achieve desired ROI. Read about an exciting new way to do just that.

How to harness the incredible potential of blogs

Rosa Terrazas

What turns an independent blog into a business success story? Consider these insights from the bloggers who have done it right.

3 brands that failed with QR codes

Roger Marquis

QR codes have the potential to connect brands to consumers, but quite often, they fall short. Let's take a look at real-life examples of brands that failed to capitalize on the technology.

Why DMPs are the keystone of data-driven marketing

Josh Dreller

As a marketer, the data management platform (DMP) will soon become the most important piece of technology you own. Here's why.

10 brand videos you can't miss

iMedia Editors

A single piece of sexy creative can get a brand noticed, but true online video success requires a thoughtful strategy. Check out the current most-watched brands in digital.

How 5 brands connected (or didn't) with dads

Kyle Montero

As fathers increase their social presences online, the "doofus dad" stereotype is catching widespread flack. Here are brands that missed the mark and others that hit the target when marketing to dads.

7 reasons why your agency pitch doesn't work

Jim Nichols

You've got the capabilities and the passion, so why aren't your prospects choosing you? Here's why what you're saying is falling on deaf ears.

The Facebook metrics you need to know

Doug Schumacher

Facebook is changing marketing -- including how we measure its effectiveness. Here's what you need to know about engagement and transaction metrics on the platform.

10 hot Apple rumors

Bethany Simpson

Laser keyboards? Holographic display? A smaller iPad and the iPhone 5 in September? These are the rumors insiders are talking about behind closed doors.

10 entertainment brands that "get" social

iMedia Editors

Having a dedicated Facebook or Twitter presence is now par for the course for entertainment brands. Here are the key industry leaders that took social to the next level.

A quick and dirty guide to social commerce

Jim Nichols

Social commerce is one of the hottest digital sectors right now. Here's what you need to consider as you evaluate platforms for your brand.

5 ways to convince your boss to invest heavily in social

Lisa Wehr

Social media is more than just an ad, but not all companies treat it as such in their budgets. Here's how to justify a greater allocation of resources to this valuable channel.

A shopper marketing cheat sheet

Jim Nichols

As retail goes digital, brands must keep pace with new developments to ensure in-store engagement. Here's a guide to the changing face of shopper marketing.

20 web TV shows we're watching

Bethany Simpson

Move over cable -- web TV is here to stay. Here's a list of some of our favorite new shows from Hulu, Netflix, Disney, and more.

Sure-fire ways to improve your brand's social presence

Stephanie Sholnik

People are not following you on social media -- therefore no one is engaging with you. Here's how to ensure that your efforts are benefiting your business.

5 ways you're recklessly abusing your metrics

Jarvis Mak

High-quality data, if not used properly, can still lead marketers to make bad decisions. Consider these common ways that numbers are used to mismanage online ad campaigns.

9 shocking ads and how they fared

Jim Nichols

As the rules of marketing change and evolve, brands are trying "shock advertising" to garner awareness and attention. Here are some great examples of what works and what flops.

How 5 brands are scoring big on BuzzFeed

Michael Estrin

BuzzFeed is quickly becoming a launching pad for brands that are serious about publishing their own content. Find out which brands are buzzing on BuzzFeed and scoring some serious earned media.

7 things you don't know about ad networks and are afraid to ask

Greg Skipper

Ad networks are one of the most confusing areas of the digital industry. This article answers seven of your most pressing questions.

10 companies driving the SoLoMo revolution

iMedia Editors

Is SoLoMo a truly revolutionary concept or a reheated take on an old idea? To know, we must first examine what's happening in the space. Here's our guide to the social, mobile, local phenomenon.

7 bad habits that are ruining your career

Jim Nichols

Every career has its ups and downs. But things will go a lot better for you if you simply avoid these common tendencies.

5 brands that embarrassed themselves on social

Lauren Friedman

Be glad you weren't the one responsible for these disastrous social media campaigns. Read on for mortifying social flops from some brands you might not expect.

6 cheap tricks for better social media marketing

David Rollo

As social matures as an advertising medium, the prices for ads are going up. Here's how marketers can drive their brand messages without significant financial investment.

Why digital ad targeting is failing

Jake Bailey

The industry is still a ways off from being able to fully leverage data surrounding ad context and consumer behavior. Find out how we can solve this problem.

20 ways to use QR codes correctly

Sean X Cummings

Alone, QR codes are never the answer. Here's how to incorporate them meaningfully into a broader marketing strategy.

5 blunders your brand is making on Facebook Timeline

Katrina Wong

Facebook Timeline provides exceptional opportunities for social engagement, but many brands are still missing out. Is yours?

The top 10 hottest brands in online video

iMedia Editors

iMedia's Top Brands in Video chart highlights the most-watched brands in digital. See which companies topped the list over the past month and watch their sexiest pieces of creative.

10 painfully common mistakes that salespeople make

Andrew Ettinger

Salespeople don't have it easy. But quite often, they shoot themselves in the foot. Here are the most common blunders sellers make when working with media buyers.

6 lessons in launching a branded YouTube channel

Michael Estrin

If brands are becoming content publishers, then it's time for a crash course in launching your YouTube channel. Here's what you need to know.

The dirty truth about Facebook commerce

Charles Nicholls

The Wild West nature of social commerce has resulted in some disastrous brand experimentation. Here are five facts about this new frontier that every marketer should know.

8 social curation tricks for Pinterest and beyond

Melonie Gallegos

With the rise of Pinterest and similar services, anybody can be a content curator. See how your brand can capitalize on the latest social craze.

5 video myths debunked at the NewFronts

iMedia Editors

If you're citing online video stats from more than six months ago, you're out of date. Here's the up-to-date scoop from insiders at DBG, Disney, Xbox, AOL, Digitas, and more.

7 ways to win awards for your social campaigns

Vanessa Naylon

This year, there will be more opportunities than ever to get your social media work recognized. But what does it take to create an award-worthy campaign? Read on.

3 ways brands are still failing at social media

Adam Broitman

Many brands are still missing the mark on Pinterest, Twitter, and other social networks. Here are three misguided approaches to social brand design -- all of which boil down to lack of integration.

New opportunities in native advertising

Jack Krawczyk

Marketers are scrambling to better understand the "new" marketing landscape. But the tactics have been around since the 1900s. Here's how native advertising has evolved -- and where it stands today.

How Siri is going to completely change your job

Sean X Cummings

If you think you can ignore something as big as Siri from a company as big as Apple, think again. Here's how to prepare for the coming revolution.

An analytics roadmap for marketers

Eric Wittlake

Measurement weighs heavily on every marketer's mind. As a result, actionable insights often fall by the wayside as results reporting becomes the primary objective. Here's how to stay focused.

9 brands taking Pinterest by storm

Jim Nichols

Pinterest has captivated millions of people since it exploded on the scene. Here are several examples of how brands are successfully using the platform.

How to make a splash at your new job

Julie Roehm

Taking on a new job can make you feel unsure or less confident. Read on for advice on making a difference in a new company, a new industry, or a new position.

What consumers share on Facebook -- and why

Doug Schumacher

The future of advertising according to Facebook is a content marketing world. Knowing what triggers your audience to engage can determine how your page performs.

6 reasons why people hate your online video ads

David Sanderson

Poor video execution can make a consumer zone out from boredom, frown in disgust, or click away. Here's how to avoid turning off your target audience.

11 horrible and amazing video ideas

Bethany Simpson

What makes a video experience flop? We asked top names from Xbox LIVE, ABC, Disney Interactive, and Intel, as well as Robert Scoble and Guy Kawasaki, for the best and worst video ideas they've seen.

A marketer's guide to mobile display advertising

Andrew Ettinger

Mobile poses many challenges and considerations for digital marketers. Read on for help navigating this increasingly competitive platform.

5 ways to captivate every generation

Jim Nichols

Reviewing Boomer, Millennial, and Gen X profiles can help you refine your marketing efforts. Here's how to appeal to all of your potential customers.

Why digital marketers can't ignore Tumblr

Michael Estrin

Tumblr may not have as much B2C cache as its competitors, but that doesn't mean the platform is irrelevant to marketers. In fact, it's the platform of choice for many agency creatives. Find out why.

10 tech trends you can ignore in 2012

Eric Anderson

Nobody holds us accountable for the predictions that didn't come true last year because we were all too busy reading next year's top 10 lists. Here are trends to disregard in 2012.

An insider's look at the power of influence marketing

Mark W. Schaefer

In this excerpt from "Return On Influence," author and business consultant Mark W. Schaefer discusses the new rules of online influence.

How to write a killer RFP

Denise Zimmerman

The request for proposal process is antiquated and broken, but it is not unfixable. Follow these tips to formulate goals and improve the RFP experience.

The smart publisher's survival guide

Jonathan Gardner

As companies like Google and Facebook maintain their dominion, navigating the digital environment is risky business for smaller publishers. Here are tips every publisher should know.

How to thrive as a second city agency

Jim Nichols

New York, Chicago, and L.A. may dominate the ad biz, but there are lots of strong agencies doing stellar work in smaller markets. Here's what it takes to succeed away from Madison Avenue.

4 ways agencies and clients can avoid a death match

Josh Dreller

No one should get held back from doing great work because of simple issues that can be solved with effective dialogue. Here's how you can evolve the conversation and get rewarded for it.

4 smart tactics for brands on Twitter

Jon Elvekrog

With almost every brand now on Twitter and tweeting regularly, you don't want to be edged out by your competitors. Here are four ways to ensure your brand gets heard above the noise.

5 reasons why the banner will outlive us all

Jim Nichols

It's fashionable to criticize banners and predict their imminent demise, but here's why they'll be around to shovel dirt onto our coffins.

5 thriving social TV apps

Kyle Montero

TV consumption has increased from four hours to five hours -- per person, per day. Here are the social apps that consumers can't live without while watching TV.

3 insane Starbucks campaigns

Bethany Simpson

Augmented reality, cryptic QR codes, and secret messages from Lady Gaga: These are the campaigns that blew our minds. Get inspired by the ideas that grabbed the attention of Starbucks' 24 million Facebook fans.

11 agency buzzwords you need to know

Sean X Cummings

The endless supply of agency jargon can leave clients dizzy and disoriented. Here are the most confusing agency buzzwords defined to steady your advertising aim.

The 4 Cs of gaining social customers

Scott Meldrum

Marketers know how important it is to acquire new customers. But how do we get them to engage on social? Here are four steps to success.

3 smart websites that do it best

David Clarke

When you don't evolve in the digital world, you quickly get left behind. Get inspired by these examples of sites that transcended the usual expectations.

3 brands that made the wrong friends

Jim Nichols

When brands open up to make friends, they become vulnerable to enemies lurking around the corner. Here are brands that attracted the wrong kind of "support" and four tips to avoid it.

10 words you should never use on LinkedIn

Josh Dreller

Using the wrong phrases to define our capabilities can make marketers appear underqualified and out of touch. Here are the overused buzzwords that you should definitely leave off your online resume.

How 10 apps became indispensable to moms

iMedia Editors

If you're a mobile marketer not thinking about the mom demographic, it's time to start. These examples will help nurture that big idea.

10 ways to make your website more social

Jeff Ragovin

According to comScore, social media is now the No. 1 online activity. So what are you waiting for? Use these tips to turn your website into a social powerhouse.

The 5 worst mobile websites

Eric Anderson

A mobile site should not be an afterthought to a mobile app or the same exact experience packed into a sardine tin. Read ahead for the biggest offenders.

How TV will change the game for digital marketers

Dean Donaldson

Nearly 25 percent of consumers go online after viewing a TV ad -- making it high time that TV and digital play nice. Here's how.

How to connect with digital's fastest growing demographic

Brent Wheeler

Marketers can't afford to ignore the critical -- and growing -- market segment of seniors. Read on to ensure you don't miss the chance to connect with this diverse group.

7 stellar creative ideas for display ads

Michael Tuminello

Are you looking to drive engagement and improve user experience online? Here are the keystone creative ideas that can help make your display ads truly memorable.

The 9 most offensive, funny Apple stories you'll ever hear

Bethany Simpson

Did you know Steve Jobs wanted Apple employees to wear uniforms? And that Apple's growth in 2011 alone is worth more than all of Google? Here are the stories you haven't heard anywhere else.

How marketers can use NFC

Michael Estrin

A lot of marketers have no clue what near field communication is, but savvy insiders are beginning to unlock its potential. Here's a cutting-edge guide to NFC to lift your brand's profile.

When brands brawl: 5 digital ad wars

Kyle Montero

While comparative advertising is a powerful strategy for differentiating one product from another, many view it as a dirty game of mockery. Here are five examples of digital ad wars that got ugly.

14 intriguing ways to use QR codes

Chloe Della Costa

While controversial, QR codes remain a hot topic in the digital marketing sphere. Here are 14 examples of the most unique QR codes yet.

3 customer comments you can't ignore

Lauren Friedman

Social media has opened the doors to consumer insight, and not all of it is sunshine and unicorns. There are issues customers voice that need to be addressed, but there are also some that should fall to the wayside.

4 brands that took a stand

Michael Estrin

Should brands talk politics, religion, and social issues? These brands did. See if it worked out for them.

5 display advertising metrics you should know

Pablo Cohan

According to comScore, the primary value of online ads is exposure, not clicks. That said, you still need something tangible to show your boss. Here are five simple, yet comprehensive metrics to effectively measure your campaign performance.

Horror stories from agency clients

Lucia Davis

Read about agencies behaving badly, from consistently ignoring client needs to not even knowing what their brand partners do.

10 tips for a killer Facebook brand page

Michael Estrin

Is your brand's Facebook page lagging behind? Or worse, is it still on the drawing board? Check out these essential tips from the experts for creating the ultimate branded Facebook page.

10 wonderfully nostalgic digital campaigns

Chloe Della Costa

The internet adores the past. Here are four ways that brands are tapping into nostalgia and retro styles with their online campaigns.

A marketer's guide to augmented reality

Adam Broitman

Augmented reality has huge potential for digital marketers, but if you want to use it wisely, you need to understand how it works. Here's a detailed guide.

5 brands pushing the envelope in gaming

Tom Edwards

Once a niche market, gaming now rivals the biggest summer blockbusters in terms of revenue. Here's how brands such as Coca-Cola, Jeep, and Oakley are successfully leveraging branded games to reach new audience segments.

Why the next big thing already happened

Jonathan Salem Baskin

Facebook's core strength isn't that it's a novel concept, but rather a smart application of a very old idea. With this in mind, use this article to help identify what's most marketable about your brand.

7 reasons your co-workers hate you

Adam Kleinberg

So many of us squander important work relationships and act in ways that make our co-workers' skin crawl when we walk in the room. If you suspect that might be you, keep reading.

5 ad formats that will boost your brand

Michael Tuminello

You're ready to reveal your campaign to the world, but you're just not sure where to showcase your creative brilliance. Here are the ad formats that create powerful online branding experiences and generate the highest user engagement.

A brand's guide to handling social media jerks

Katelyn Watson

In order to handle problem people with elegance, brands must first know whom they're dealing with. Here are some game plans to steer them in the right direction.

How social actually impacts your bottom line

Stephanie Shkolnik

Brands small and large have embraced social as a marketing tool, but few know how to truly harness its advantages. Here are the critical components that will ensure the long-term success of your social media strategy.

4 ways your B2B website is sabotaging sales

Lauren Goldstein

Now is the time for progressive marketers to transform the corporate website into a demand-generation hub. But first, here are four obstacles your company must overcome to master inbound marketing.

The metrics you should be using

Jarvis Mak

Metrics about online ad engagement or interaction (alone) do not translate to bottom line results as effectively as lifetime value. Here are three campaign metrics to start using now -- and three to toss.

How Google, Apple will transform mobile...again

iMedia Editors

Major industry players like Google, Apple, Microsoft, MasterCard, and AT&T are banking on this revolutionary mobile technology. Here's what the shift will mean for brands.

5 winning demographics you should be tracking

Jere Doyle

Marketers need to change the way they reach their target market. Here are five second-level demographics to pay attention to now.

8 tips for launching an effective paid Facebook campaign

Stephen Anderson

What is a media planner to do when trying to craft a successful Facebook campaign? Read on as a search engine marketing guru reveals the answer with these unique tips.

5 hot new jobs for digital marketers

Robert Rose

The new jobs emerging this year represent a real change that's happening to our marketing strategies. Read about these exciting positions and why you should know about them.

Digital marketing's 4 biggest disappointments

Jim Nichols

As an industry, we expect too much from new tools -- and are constantly disappointed. Check out these digital developments that couldn't live up to marketers' expectations.

How social data mismanagement can doom your campaign

Ken Burbary

Using the right data to inform your marketing strategy is critical to the success of your social media campaign. Here's where you can find the information that really matters.

5 big SEO changes you might have missed

Lisa Wehr

Optimum SEO can be achieved with proper website design and by keeping up-to-date with how to drive visitors to your site. Here are a few recent optimization shifts you need to know about.

How to cash in on banned ads

Chloe Della Costa

Maybe it's time your brand took some risks. These days, the tags "banned" or "too hot for TV" are desirable, and if you're smart, you can turn a rejected ad into an online sensation.

What new gTLDs mean for your brand

Joshua Bourne

ICANN is expected to publish a list of up to 1,000 applications for the new domain name extensions. Here's what you can anticipate when these gTLDs become part of the digital space.

2011 Super Bowl wins and fails

Jim Nichols

From tawdry tactics to comedic storytelling, competing brands will use just about any trick to try and dominate the Super Bowl ad space. Here's a look at the winners and losers of last year's epic ad-off.

9 social media hacks you need to embrace now

Jay Baer

Social media is too complicated for you to be spinning your wheels on activities and behaviors that won't make much difference. These solutions will save you time and propel you forward.

3 brands that failed on Facebook

David Clarke

There's no denying the power that Facebook has on businesses. But for every social media success story, there comes a fable of failure. From missed opportunities to communication breakdowns, learn what not to do on Facebook from these three prominent brands.

Will future employers check your Klout score?

Bethany Simpson

Should you include your Klout score on your resume? What is considered a good score? How do you increase it? (Will a high score get you free stuff?) Klout's Garth Holsinger gives us the inside line.

How to optimize with social media

Rebecca Denison

As social media continues to grow, media optimizers must turn their attention toward understanding how advertisements fit into the new digital ecosystem. Here are four ways to make sure your ads gel.

iMedia 25: 2012 Brands Pioneering Online Video

iMedia Editors

This list recognizes brands that are making innovative use of online video and are willing to take risks in this still-emerging space.

A marketer's guide to engaging the tablet user

Doug Heise

The tablet's popularity proves it's a viable marketing channel not to be ignored. Read this article to better understand what makes the tablet different from other devices, and learn how to leverage it as a critical piece of your mobile marketing strategy.

3 reasons Google+ is not a social network

Lauren Friedman

While Google+ brand pages were thought to put Facebook at risk, the feature-sets and overall functionality are just not going to cut it. Here are three reasons why it's not a social network -- and why brands should still participate.

9 campaigns that won with humor

Jim Nichols

These nine brands did what many try but few succeed in doing -- create funny campaigns that capture our attention and drive action.

A creative guide to forming keyword lists

Jessica Bowman

Online marketers intimately understand the importance of SEO, yet few know the tools that can help them achieve their goals. Use these six down and dirty techniques to build a Google-friendly keyword list.

7 marketing buzzwords you need to know

Eric Anderson

Our words define us, so identifying emerging terms such as "cloudsourcing" and "gamification" can tell us something about where we're headed, or where we want to go. Here are the seven buzzwords that should be on your lips.

Can a partnership with the Kardashians save this brand?

Bethany Simpson

This major company is hoping the popularity of the Kardashians will attract sales. Will it be enough to save an ailing brand?

9 digital campaigns to learn from

Jim Nichols

These crafty campaigns reveal how far marketing has moved toward embracing digital creativity. Read on to learn from these integrated, multi-execution efforts and powerful one-offs.

New technologies to manage social

Josh Dreller

The social media boom has led to a vast proliferation of platforms, apps, and sites dedicated to the medium. Here are (almost) 200 of the hottest social media tools that you should be aware of.

Why brands will lose if they ignore Google+

Daniel Flamberg

Google+ grew its follower base from zero to 40 million in roughly 90 days, proving -- despite its initial lackluster functionality -- that it's not a platform to be ignored. Here are five essential ways brands and marketers can use Google+.

8 marketing partnerships that succeeded

Kyle Montero

To tap the market's full potential, it helps to work together. Here are eight cutting-edge examples of digital marketing alliances to jumpstart your cooperative thinking.

5 new rules for a knock-out pitch

Michael Weiss

Love 'em or hate 'em, the agency pitch is here to stay. Use this article to make sure your pitch is not just a formulaic, run of the mill boring meeting, but a performance that leaves them begging for more.

How to harness the power of the meme

Michael Estrin

Can marketers tap into the influence of a meme? Sure, but to do so, you need to speak the language. Here's what you need to know.

Social media battlefield: Marketing versus PR

Jennifer Mitchell

Marketing and public relations professionals have long prided themselves on being expert gatekeepers of communication. Read on for social media insights and advice for brands -- from both perspectives.

Does your agency stink or is it you?

Denise Zimmerman

It's really easy to blame the agency -- or the client. It's a lot harder to be honest with the issues and figure it out. Here are some insights to help brands and agencies work better together.

The uncertain future of the QR code

Roger Marquis

Will the future show that QR codes are just a passing advertising fad, or a viable direct response mechanism? It's up to marketers to determine the fate of the QR code. Here's why.

How to find balance with Facebook influentials

Doug Schumacher

As brands strive to engage people at the highest level of activity, there are a lot of endorsements they can generate at lower levels of participation. Here are some key insights.

8 dirty secrets we're afraid to talk about

Bethany Simpson

We asked digital marketing leaders from Coca-Cola, Gap, Sears, Digitas, and more for their dirty secrets and pet peeves... and they dished!

4 marketing megatrends you need to watch

Jim Meskauskas

Is Facebook's star losing its shine? Will our industry finally gain access to better metrics? Let's take a look at these and other recent industry developments and their prospects for the coming year.

The pros and cons of affiliate marketing

Joanna Janus

Affiliate marketing can drive sales transactions and awareness, but seasoned marketers warn that its cost-benefit analysis doesn't always pan out. Read on to see if it's right for you.

6 creative display ads that will inspire you

Ariel Geifman

Significant resources, energy, and attention should be given to the creative execution of your online ads. Here are six examples of advertisers that have done just that.

How your agency is ripping you off

Sean X Cummings

Intentional or not, there are countless ways your agency is ripping you off, and almost all of them can be avoided. Here are a few pointers that will help you restructure your account and save massive amounts of money.

6 tips to engage the holiday shopper

Jeff Ragovin

As e-commerce sales continue to rise, it's important to provide consumers with engaging content that encourages social sharing. Here are six sure-fire ways to connect with consumers over the holidays.

iMedia Agency Award Winners 2011

iMedia Editors

The inaugural iMedia Agency Awards highlight the most innovative agencies of the last year, as well as those agencies leading the pack in social media, video, mobile, and more. See the full list of winners.

Top 10 epic fails of 2011

Tricia Despres

This year's marketing fails resulted in boycotts, rage-filled tweets, and stern Facebook statuses. Here are the most memorable digital advertising stumbles of 2011.

How to talk a client off the ledge

Lisa Kaufmann

Dealing with challenging clients is a fact of agency life, so it's best to be prepared for the worst. Use this guide to help steer your clients away from the cliff and toward greener pastures.

The good and the bad of user-generated video

Daisy Whitney

User-generated video is great for testimonials and referrals, but is this home-grown style right for every brand? Here's the lowdown.

Kick-ass subject lines and how to write them

Kara Trivunovic

How do you write a subject line that is so compelling that your audience simply can't pass it up? Here are a few tips to get you started.

A beginner's guide to mobile ad networks

Peter Hamilton

Mobile advertising isn't that different from other forms of online marketing. In fact, if you're already familiar with major web advertising channels and ad networks, you'll be a pro on mobile in no time. Here's how.

The best mobile campaigns of 2011

Chris Wayman

The most successful mobile marketing campaigns of the year aren't the ones you might think. Learn how these brands leveraged mobile as an integrated, multi-channel engagement vehicle.

How to be a rock star on 8 social media platforms

Kent Lewis

Many brands have figured out the basics of social media, but very few have taken it to the next level. Here's a marketer's guide for doing so.

4 stories about Steve Jobs that will surprise you

Walter Isaacson

What took place in Steve's final coversation with Bill Gates? How did the feud with Adobe begin? Don't miss these stories from biographer Walter Isaacson -- including several that go beyond the pages of his book.

7 ways you're abusing your best customers

Jim Nichols

Although digital helps marketers treat people better, it also gives companies unique tools to violate consumer trust and respect. Ask yourself if your company is guilty of these bad behaviors.

A social media planner's guide to pleasing the boss

Melonie Gallegos

To be a successful social strategist, you'll need buy-in from the execs in order to move forward with your brilliant marketing plan. Find out how to make them happy.

10 strategic benefits of Google+ brand pages

Tom Edwards

Now is the time to define your brand's strategy when it comes to fully maximizing the benefits of Google+. Find out how.

The iMedia 25: Top innovators in digital marketing

iMedia Editors

iMedia presents its 2011 list of cutting-edge creatives, strategists, and technology thought leaders. See who made the cut!

The clients that agencies hate

Lucia Davis

Agencies go off the record to reveal their worst client stories -- the funny, the ugly, and the inexplicable.

4 ways to get customers to brag about your brand

Keith Pape

Social sharing programs are now must-have elements of social media engagement. Here are the four levels at which your brand should be incentivizing its customers.

Your web analytics crib sheet

Andrew Ettinger

Analysis means understanding the data and finding a pattern. Use this article as your guide to becoming a web analytics rock star.

3 lessons learned from rap's social media kings

Dita Quinones

Find out how MC Hammer, Soulja Boy, and Nicki Minaj turned their small business dreams into major branding successes and became DIY social media stars.

7 media planning mistakes to avoid

Josh Dreller

To succeed in media planning, you have to be sharp, stay on your toes, and follow the industry like a hawk. Here are common areas where most planners stumble.

11 ways to be a charming marketer

Kent Speakman

Digital marketers might work online, but our offline interactions are what make the lasting impressions that lead to professional success. Use this article to ensure you're remembered fondly.

3 signs you're a success on Facebook

Doug Schumacher

Setting goals for your Facebook efforts doesn't need to feel overly complex or cumbersome. Here are some of the key metrics by which you can judge your brand's success.

FTC Chair calls for ad transparency

Brad Berens

The industry's most powerful figure weighs in on privacy, transparency, and how social and mobile complicate everything.

A marketer's guide to geek speak

Rebecca Lieb

Despite disparate skill sets and languages spoken by marketers and developers, both teams have to work together as colleagues, not enemies. Here's how to get everyone striving toward common goals.

Using social media for customer service: 3 vital tactics

David Clarke

Companies have no choice but to embrace customer relations through social media if they want to remain relevant. Here's how to make sure you don't drop the ball.

How Coca-Cola will double its business by 2020

Brad Berens

At the root of innovation is unlocking value by leveraging existing and emerging behaviors in new ways. Coca-Cola's senior VP and Wieden + Kennedy's global director weigh in on how to harness this vision.

5 scary client stories to tell in the dark

Jim Nichols

The problems! The missteps! The sheer horror of it all! Check out these client stories and the lessons they offer on how to work better together.

The mobile optimization strategy every brand must employ

Jason Kreidman

Nearly half of all mobile searches on Google and Bing are local, which is why forward-thinking brand marketers are currently investing in optimizing their presences in this arena. Here's how you can too.

Your step-by-step guide to acquiring a gTLD

Josh Bourne

The process of applying for and launching a new generic top-level domain takes time, careful planning, and serious attention to detail. Read ahead to get started.

6 social media attitudes that connect with people

Adam Boyden

In social media, it's all about attitude. Consider these popular social media personalities that brands can adopt to coincide with their distinct voices.

How to cure your SEO blindness

Alan Bush

SEO is widely hailed as one of the most effective online marketing strategies, yet we continue to take it for granted. Here are the common SEO mistakes that you should avoid.

The 7 deadly sins of Facebook page design

Lisa Wehr

Is your Facebook page lacking good aesthetics? Or worse, functionality? Let's dive into the biggest mistakes you can make when designing your brand's Facebook page.

5 ways to get creative with 140 characters

Jon Elvekrog

Even if 140 characters seems like a beautifully simplified approach to marketing, mastering this concept is still a challenge. Here are several tips for killer ad copy within the confines of a tweet.

Creative director reboot: 6 steps to re-launching yourself

Josh Rose

The world can pass you by if you forget to change with it. Here are the six essentials for anyone trying to position themselves as a contemporary creative leader.

6 signs your job is in danger

Eric Anderson

What are the top indicators that your digital marketing job might be in jeopardy? Here's the vulture's-eye view.

How to know if your DSP is really working

Ari Buchalter

How does your DSP decide which RTB impressions to buy for your campaign? Most do it wrong by guessing at audiences or just bidding low. Here are four fundamental concepts for understanding whether your provider is making the right decisions.

Why you shouldn't hire a social media manager

Denise Zimmerman

Before you start filling positions in this fast-growing field, consider whether such hires will truly move you toward your goals. Here are the reasons you might not want to post that job listing.

Why the QR code is failing

Sean X Cummings

The current uses of QR codes are just not cutting it. Find out why these tools aren't working and how they can be redeemed.

An inside look at Google's approach to marketing

Doug Edwards

In this excerpt from the book "I'm Feeling Lucky," former Google employee Doug Edwards dishes on the company's unconventional take on marketing.

The world's worst social media advice: What to ignore

Lori Dicker

Every self-proclaimed social media "guru" is happy to tell you what your brand is doing right -- and wrong -- in social media. But these commonly heard opinions aren't as sound as they might seem.

Why Facebook fans are useless

Amielle Lake

On their own, Facebook "likes" don't hold any value. However, with the right approach, there are smart things that marketers can do to convert fans into true customers. Here's how.

The 5 most memorable banner ads

Martin Betoni

The world of banner ads isn't always bland. Check out this review of the best digital advertisements to date, and how they've influenced our industry.

4 ways you're annoying your online audience

Peter Platt

In the effort to capture attention, ads can easily go from interesting to irritating. Here's how to ensure your ads are well received.

What your analytics are really saying

Nicole Rawski

In order to make educated business decisions, you need to understand the numbers and how they relate to your overarching business goals. Here is a step-by-step guide to setting up a proper analytics strategy.

9 ways to lose friends and alienate people in social media

Kent Lewis

Too few brands are following time-tested communications best practices when engaging in social media. Avoid making the same mistakes by following these basic principles.

How to determine the real value of a Facebook fan

Kimberly Struyk

While many brands are scrambling to establish an ever-growing number of Facebook fans, smart companies are also taking the time to weigh in on the quality of their followers. Here's how you can too.

4 new reasons to redesign your website

Adam Kleinberg

Your next website should be crafted with the recent revolutions in online behavior in mind. Here are the foundational attributes that should define how your site is designed and constructed.

How the "new Facebook" impacts news feed optimization

Scott Meldrum

Facebook's recent changes to its platform could provide significant advantages for brand marketers. Here's a brief summary of some of these key enhancements, and how they will impact day-to-day marketing.

How to get the metrics lowdown on Twitter... for free

Dita Quinones

So you think Twitter isn't for your brand? Wake up. Get in touch with your inner tweeter with five tools to start energizing your audience engagement.

Brands redefining social media in 2011

iMedia Editors

iMedia presents its 2011 list of brands that are on top when it comes to engaging consumers on social media platforms. See which ones made the cut!

The most cost-effective and undervalued campaign element

Joanna Janus

Images are powerful marketing tools that can better convey a message than many other media. Find out how you should be using them.

Reasons the QR code is not dead

Eric Anderson

People love to pick on the humble QR code. But marketers dismiss this simple little tool at their own peril. Here's why the QR code will succeed -- if marketers let it.

How to optimize your business for local search

Jason Kreidman

The importance of local search is growing, and it is imperative for your business to get in on the action now. Here are some practical tips to going local on "the big three" -- Bing, Yahoo, and Google.

Why your mobile site shouldn't be "Flashy"

Monica Ho

Marketers are inundated with mobile branding choices these days, but maybe the "less is more" adage is the best approach. Here's how to structure your mobile site for search and usability -- without Flash.

6 big Facebook opportunities brands are missing

David Clarke

Shouldn't marketers have figured out how to harness the full power of Facebook by now? Here are the facets of the platform that are often overlooked -- but shouldn't be.

How to ensure your website works on any device

Tara Loosvelt

Only a quarter of all phones in the world are smartphones, which means 75 percent of people are struggling to see your mobile site. Responsive design can help ensure your message reaches everyone -- whether on an iPhone, a tablet, or a flip phone.

The right (and wrong) ways to get promoted

Reid Carr

We all want to move up in our digital marketing careers. Here's how to go about doing it.

Tips for taking your social media efforts global

Jenna Lebel

The majority of Facebook and Twitter users live outside the United States -- a tempting prospect for brands looking to reach untapped markets through social media. Before setting your overseas social campaign in motion, review these tips and best practices.

How to use negative feedback to benefit your brand

Jamie Pappas

"Your brand is terrible." While sentiments such as this are sprawled across the web, they shouldn't be cause for panic. See why negative feedback can be a positive thing for brands.

Facebook content calendars: The 4 vital pieces

Doug Schumacher

There's more science behind posting to Facebook than you might think. Learn how to determine the optimal frequency, timing, context, and media types for your brand's wall.

A marketer's guide to finding cash

Scott Esmond

In this economic climate, every penny counts. Here are five tips to consider when searching for digital dollars.

5 reasons you should love your job

Robert Rose

Why all the stern looks on marketers' faces these days? Now is the best time ever to be in our industry. Here's why.

What you need to know about web analytics

Brandt Dainow

As the social media and mobile channels continue to flourish, the ability to measure and understand marketing successes and failures is paramount. Here's an in-depth look at the state of web analytics today.

Marketing beyond Facebook and Twitter

Evan Gerber

To truly capitalize on the benefits that the social web offers, brands must research and explore other opportunities. Read about fantastic alternatives and get started today.

iMedia Digital Showcase: The 10 best branded Facebook apps

Michael Estrin

Brands big and small are leveraging Facebook apps to make powerful emotional connections with users. Let's take a look at some of the best work in this small but impactful category.

Why engagement trumps clicks

Ariel Geifman

While a high click-through rate is great, it is by no means the definitive gauge of a campaign's success. To get and keep customers, brand advertisers need to engage users by providing memorable and positive experiences.

Why the web loses out to reality

Jonathan Salem Baskin

Digital marketing's current approach to the internet misses the true engagement opportunities it can afford. Here's why brands should use their online voices to make real offline connections.

Print's new role in digital

Ariel Geifman

The print industry has been faced with the challenge of moving online, and the process has been unnecessarily slow. Here are six reasons why bits are already the new ink.

5 PR nightmares you should have seen coming

Mark Naples

Maintaining good public relations hinges on being prepared. Here are the recommended remedies to the cringe-worthy scenarios in which brands often find themselves.

iMedia's Top 10 Hottest Digital Marketers

Editors

Great marketers know how to cultivate their personal brands as well as those of their clients. This list recognizes both the career accomplishments as well as the "hip stylings" of today's best and brightest in the field of digital marketing.

3 ways your brand can be more human

Francois Gossieaux

People relate to other people much more so than they relate to companies or institutions. Here's how your brand can tap into that deeper sense of trust.

5 obstacles preventing online video advertising growth

Julia Casale-Amorim

Why hasn't digital video advertising blown up yet? Here are some roadblocks preventing its rapid growth -- and ways to overcome them.

3 keys to picking the agency that fits your needs

Erin Ransom

Using the old approach to hiring an agency is like choosing a favorite outfit that doesn't fit anymore. Here's how to select a powerhouse partner that will suit your digital needs.

5 of the best brand homepages on the web

Lisa Wehr

Your homepage is often the first digital impression that you make on a consumer. But is it a good one? Take a lesson from these brands that have it all figured out.

5 secrets to extending your brand's "15 minutes of fame"

Jim Nichols

When a great campaign makes your brand white-hot, you want to keep that excitement going. Learn Madonna's secrets to fanning the fires of fame.

7 ways to create display ads that get noticed

Ariel Geifman

Nobody pays attention to online ads, right? Wrong. Some ads do stand out. Consider these examples that enticed people to laugh, play, and enjoy.

How to hire the ultimate community manager

Evan Gerber

The wrong person tweeting or writing on a Facebook wall can make a brand look insipid, off-message, or worse. Use this article as a guide to finding and hiring a qualified social media manager.

Why the iAd was a failure

Brandt Dainow

A year after the iAd's debut, its closed ecosystem has forced advertisers to seek other rich media options. Find out why Apple must change or die.

5 horrible ad placements that could have been avoided

Andy Ellenthal

Bad ad placements can range from uncomfortable associations to outright wastes of money. See how you can avoid these awkward situations.

Why your viral video never went viral

Sean X Cummings

The most successful viral videos are not the ones that reinforce a brand position. They reinvent it. So if your video isn't turning people into advocates, then it's probably a waste of time. Here's why.

The 7 dumbest things said during a sales pitch

Sean Cheyney

Sometimes the things that come out of the mouths of salespeople are practically laughable. Here are a few that no marketer should ever have to hear.

8 questions to ask your ad network

Tricia Despres

These days, buyers have more choices than ever when trying to find the right home for their clients' ads. Here are the crucial questions you need to ask when evaluating an ad network.

Terrible agency website mistakes

Michael Estrin

Is your agency's website a failure? If some of these red flags describe your site, you need to up your game -- now!

5 people you should never hire

Karen Macumber

To avoid making mistakes as you screen new hires, consider these profiles of dangerous candidates.

The latest trends in social commerce

Jeff Ragovin

Social commerce is evolving quickly, and consumers are sharing products online more than ever. Here's how to harness the growing power of this movement.

Sexy digital brand makeovers

Jim Nichols

Can digital help reinvent a consumer brand? You bet! Here are three brands that have used digital to transform themselves, and the principles these efforts have in common.

How to transform yourself into a brand

Kent Speakman

Personal brands open up doors and create opportunities -- and they also can do the reverse. Use this article as your guide to boosting the brand of "you" and preventing missteps.

How to harness the power of mobile moms

Tina Sharkey

Moms are one of the largest and most influential demographics in mobile. Here's how to make them happy.

5 rules for playing nice in the agency sandbox

Avi Savar

When agencies can't collaborate on behalf of a client, the work -- and everyone involved -- suffers. Follow these simple principles to reduce tensions.

Why digital marketing gets stiffed on the P&L

Sonny Kim

In order for advertisers to make the case for increased budget allocation to digital media, change needs to occur. Here are the factors limiting an increase in resources, and how to counter this trend.

5 brands that post terrible Facebook updates

Lauren Friedman

It's easy for people to "unlike" a brand. Don't tempt them by employing these lazy and irritating tactics.

The digital marketer's checklist

Jim Nichols

No one wants to work on something they know is misguided. Here are five questions to help keep your team -- and yourself -- on the smart track.

Why Twitter is for twits

Osas Obaiza

While there is no denying Twitter's popularity, the verdict is still out on its marketing value. Find out why a tweet isn't worth its weight in feathers.

The iMedia 25: West Coast Agencies to Watch

iMedia Editors

iMedia presents its 2011 list of key West Coast agencies that move, shape, and lead digital. See which ones made the cut!

4 deliberately controversial ad campaigns

Carrie Reichenthal

Using controversy in ads can bring both positive and negative attention to brands. Here are four examples of ad campaigns that have pushed boundaries and buttons to stir the pot.

3 reasons Groupon is bad for your business

Francois Gossieaux

Some critics accuse social buying sites of being manipulative and damaging to the industries they purport to serve. Here's why.

5 steps brands can take to kiss and make up

Jen Samples

Consumers are becoming more demanding, and brands must alter their strategies for handling mistakes. Here's a guide on how to effectively apologize.

Why email newsletters are digital litter

Chris Marriott

The email newsletter has taken the place of the average marketing mailing. And like traditional mailings, here's why your newsletters might end up in the trash.

Paid social media: 5 opportunities you're overlooking

Josh Dreller

Owned and earned media are great, but if you're ignoring paid opportunities in social media, your strategy is incomplete. Consider exploring these opportunities.

3 brands that lost -- and won back -- Latinos

Dita Quinones

Forming a bond with U.S. ethnic groups isn't easy for marketers -- one misstep can put them in PR hell. Find out how three brands repaired their blunders and regained this coveted demographic.

10 reasons to hate the click

Peter Platt

At first, the click seemed like a metric that made sense. But our industry needs so much more. Here's why we need to stop clinging to this outdated concept.

YouTube etiquette for 2011

Daisy Whitney

Digital marketers small and large must follow several steps to build, share, and succeed on Youtube. This article will help you navigate and conquer the video giant.

Why SEO predictions are a necessary evil

Jessica Bowman

SEO forecasting doesn't always work, but when it does, it can help you to weather erratic changes in online search. Here's how to separate the good predictions from the bad and the ugly.

The iMedia 25: East Coast Agencies to Watch

iMedia Editors

iMedia presents its 2011 list of key agencies that move, shape, and lead digital. See which ones made the cut!

The trend that's revolutionizing digital creative

Doug Schumacher

Read ahead as one creative director goes through the crowdsourcing design process so you don't have to. Is it a boon or bust for digital?

When social media goes to hell: 4 action plans

Eric Anderson

No matter how carefully planned your strategy is, a brand's social media reputation can burst into flames with little warning. Let's examine four common crises and how to remedy them.

3 user experience principles to live by

Tara Loosvelt

Users desire control and want to know where they are and where they can go at all times. Here is how to keep them behind the wheel with a stronger user experience design strategy.

5 website functions you need to move to Facebook

Adam Boyden

Here are the items that once resided on your brand's homepage that shouldn't be there anymore.

How emerging tech can hurt you

Denise E. Zimmerman

With so much new technology arriving every day, it can be a tough task to weed out the winners and losers. While some tech might be fun to play with, it may not work as promised and may even hurt your brand or business. Here's what to watch for.

When it's OK to confuse your customers

Joseph Carrabis

Marketers need to know how context can filter cognitive and emotional response -- both in physical and digital environments. If you don't pay attention to these filters, your target consumers may miss your message. Here's why.

5 mid-year digital trends to watch

Adam Kleinberg

The latest shifts in our industry will dramatically affect how you do your job over the next six months. Read more to see which marketing trends will dominate the rest of 2011.

8 brands that were forced to apologize

Jennifer Marlo

When brands make mistakes, apologies are expected. Or are they? Here's a look at some of the biggest brand faux pas in recent memory, and the brand reactions that might surprise you.

3 brands leading post-PC era marketing

Adam Broitman

As marketers and creatives, we need to put an end to the notion that there is a digital divide separating the physical and the virtual. Here are three brands that are ahead of the pack in this respect.

6 months in review: Digital's biggest trends

Jim Meskauskas

We're halfway there, and it's time to take stock. Let's examine the biggest trends our industry has seen since the dawn of 2011, and their potential staying power for the coming months.

Beyond Groupon: 5 market-moving trends in social couponing

Sonia Meisenheimer

Social couponing is becoming a billion-dollar business. Let's take a look at the newest trends in social couponing and how your brand can leverage them.

4 ways to stomp out a social media wildfire

Jennifer Samples

Just like a real wildfire, damage and injury can occur after a social media disaster. Here's how to cover all your bases and keep the mess contained.

Advanced LinkedIn strategies for marketers

Kent Lewis

If you're currently using LinkedIn only to network, you're missing the true power of the platform. Learn how to optimize your personal and company profiles.

4 ways to fail at social media

Jonathan Salem Baskin

We still don't know how to measure social media success -- or failure. Here are four ways to tell your investment isn't paying off.

8 Facebook changes marketers need to know

Jeff Ragovin

Is the constant flow of Facebook changes causing your head to spin? This article lays out all of the recent changes in one spot.

9 things brands should never do on Facebook

Charles Lauller

You can't please everyone on Facebook, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try. When establishing a brand presence on this popular social platform, don't alienate or offend your fan base -- or else.

5 awesome website redesigns

Osas Obaiza

Going under the knife is a scary prospect, but when it comes to websites, it can be a saving grace. Check out how great redesigns gave these brands more than a face lift.

8 of the best multi-screen campaigns

Bobby Figueroa

The proliferation of new connected devices is enough to make any marketer dizzy. Here are the brands that understand what it takes to thrive in this multi-screen landscape.

9 ways brands are wasting money on video

Kelly McEttrick

Video is one of the best tools in the digital marketing arsenal, but many brands are throwing away their dollars in its name. Use this article to make sure you're spending wisely.

5 new (and powerful) targeting methods

Jim Nichols

In the targeting game, we're always looking for new data and insights. Check out these novel approaches that are making a real difference for brands.

Revamp your web analytics in 30 days

Andrew Edwards

Is it time for a metrics makeover? Use this practical guide to help streamline your analytics development.

Why your brand loyalty is failing

Luca S. Paderni

According to a recent Forrester survey, 40 percent of CMOs admit their brand loyalty programs underperform. Find out how to fix this crucial campaign element.

Top 5 reasons why mobile sites fail

Eric Anderson

Why do we insist on torturing customers with our abominable mobile websites? Consider these simple recommendations based on the most common blunders.

How "ugly" can boost your campaign

Robert Rose

Marketers often strive for a beautiful website or ad, but does lovely creative actually convert? Find out why the ugly bird gets the worm.

Outstanding brand blogs you should check out

Sarah Kotlova

Blogs can deliver great value to brands -- but only if done right. Consider these brands that have successfully translated their marketing messages into engaging forums.

3 ways to segment your Facebook fan base

Scott Meldrum

It is critical for marketers to understand who their Facebook audiences are and how to reach them in more targeted ways. Read on to better understand the key audience "types" on Facebook.

7 insanely affordable video marketing tactics

Jason Prescott

Online video is now a necessity. Thankfully, it's easier than ever to get in the game. Consider these low-cost strategies for launching a robust video marketing program.

Why everything you know about demographics is wrong

Michael Estrin

As ad targeting gets more sophisticated, marketers are becoming increasingly adept at slicing and dicing audiences. But does that mean traditional demographics are a thing of the past?

9 social media questions you're afraid to ask

Melonie Gallegos

Many brands are still unsure of how best to use Facebook and Twitter to their advantage. Learn how to tailor your social media strategy with these no-nonsense answers.

5 awesome ways brands are using location-based marketing

Sonia Meisenheimer

Here's why it's time for brands to test location-based marketing strategies, while customers are both curious and forgiving.

Free analytics tools you should be using

Josh Dreller

Robust online analytics platforms don't all carry a big price tag. Check out these free resources that can help you collect, analyze, and take action on your data.

5 trends that could take down Facebook

Dave Knox

Facebook is on top now, but what's stopping it from going the way of Myspace in a few years? Here are the industry shifts that could sink Zuckerberg.

5 tips for building a super-sticky Facebook page

Lauren Friedman

Your goal on Facebook should be to create an experience that makes users want to return and engage more. Here's how you can make your page socially sticky.

New keys to mastering consumer perception and behavior

Jason Burnham

The guiding principles for direct response and branding initiatives are about to be turned upside down. Here's why most marketers miss the mark when it comes to converting consumers.

A newbie's guide to surviving digital

Julie Roehm

There are few career paths as exciting as digital marketing, but it's always good to remember what it takes to succeed in this chaotic yet exciting space.

Lessons from brands that were spanked by Google

Ramsay Crooks

It is better to learn from the mistakes of others than to make the mistakes yourself. Let's take a look at what we can glean from recent black-hat SEO scandals.

Demystifying the tween demographic

Evan Gerber

The tween demographic presents a great opportunity for marketers to build a relationship that can last through teen years and beyond. Find out how five brands did it right.

5 reasons social media is a waste of marketing dollars

Jonathan Salem Baskin

Recent industry news suggests that social media campaigns haven't proven to be viable marketing activities. Learn where brands are going wrong -- and how they can get back on track.

5 signs people think your brand is a social media liar

Peter Shankman

Many companies come across as insincere on social despite their best efforts. Read ahead for five signs that your message has gone awry -- and solutions to get you back on track.

Surprising insights into online shopping patterns

Lori Luechtefeld

Online holiday shoppers are timing their purchases to capitalize on retailers' deepest discounts. Learn more about how consumers choose what, where, and how to buy.

New lessons from 6 tweets gone wrong

Jennifer Marlo

A Twitter foul-up can boost a brand's reputation just as easily as it can damage it. Here's a look at the most interesting Twitter snafus in recent history.

Mobile is dead: 5 marketing trends

Brian Monahan

As the digital marketing landscape continues to evolve, here are five things to keep your eye on. Check them out -- and use them to get ahead this year.

The secrets behind successful landing pages

Evan Gerber

First impressions matter. Follow these guidelines to ensure that consumers' snap judgments work in your favor.

6 signs your client isn't happy

Michael Estrin

Is your client rethinking its relationship with your agency? Look for the telltale signs, and consider these strategies for salvaging an account that may be in jeopardy.

How to ruin your brand's online reputation in 6 easy steps

Jamie Beckland

If you are looking to lose customer goodwill and squander your brand equity, here are the latest tactics you should put into practice.

A survival guide for startup agencies

Michael Estrin

Thinking of starting your own shop? Find out what these agencies really learned in their first year of business, and how you can use that information to make your startup succeed.

Why DSPs need to open up, or shut up

Ari Buchalter

Every DSP claims to have an "algorithm" for RTB, but they can't all back it up. Consider these insights on why algorithms are important and how to tell if your DSP really has one.

The shortcomings of Facebook "likes"

Amielle Lake

One of Facebook's most popular features offers no opportunity for further dialogue with consumers. Learn why you should not be relying on "likes" alone.

Top social media platforms for businesses

Kent Lewis

Consumer-facing brand marketers are wild about social media, but business-to-business marketers have been more skeptical about the value. Consider this proof that social marketing can and will work for B2B companies too.

7 habits of highly effective tablet marketers

Andrew Solmssen

We're still figuring out the best ways to engage with consumers on their tablets. Check out these surefire tips to help you through the process.

5 new online media-planning rules

Katelyn Watson

The media-planning environment is constantly changing. So too must the guidelines our industry lives by. Consider these ways to get the most from your media plan.

The 10-minute guide to digital out-of-home

Jim Nichols

With $3.5 billion in sales expected for 2011, DOOH is way too big for anyone to ignore. Get a succinct download on this fast-growing media category.

An essential guide to expanding your agency

Michael Estrin

Are you thinking about adding a practice area to your agency? Before you do, you might want to take a moment and hear from some peers about what you need to know before you flip the switch.

5 ways Facebook is changing search marketing

Stephen Anderson

As Facebook grows in size and influence, it is affecting how consumers access information. Consider these implications for search and learn how you can stay ahead of the curve.

5 fantastic examples of interactive video

David Sanderson

Many brands are missing opportunities in online video due to poor execution. Check out these examples of companies that understand the finer points.

10 Facebook lessons from Apple vs. Google

David Clarke

Facebook is an incredible medium for stirring the fires of fan engagement. See the lessons one agency gleaned from its social media experiment -- one year and 55,000 "likes" later.

How to plug in to mom

Jodi Harris

Today's moms are tech-savvy, tuned in, and ready to join the marketing conversation. If you are looking to reach this hot demographic, let McCann's chief technology catalyst show you when, where, and how to forge strong bonds.

10 simple tips for Facebook and Twitter success

Julie Glassman

Social media is a vital part of digital strategy, but how do you ensure you are engaging with consumers in a relevant and meaningful way? Use these tips to make sure the right message is coming across.

5 more reasons to hate Google

Sean X Cummings

A company doesn't have to be evil to be worthy of hatred. Let's examine traits and practices that give marketers cause for concern over the path that our once-beloved Google has followed.

The marketer's dilemma: Privacy and consumer control

Brandt Dainow

If you work in the digital industry, you need to be aware of the issues raised by the WAA Code of Ethics and why it's taking center-stage as the online privacy debate heats up.

5 reasons to hate Google

Sean X Cummings

At some point, Google started to believe its own hype; in that moment, it became lost. Consider this evidence that the search giant has officially crossed the line between confidence and arrogance.

What's working, and what's not, for tablet marketing

Jodi Harris

Will tablets hit their tipping point this year? And what benefits do they provide over other digital channels? Find out what Organic's emerging platforms strategist sees for this booming technology.

Location-based services: What to invest in, what to ignore

Lucia Davis

Navigating the overpopulated world of LBS can be trying. iMedia sat down with a senior analyst from Internet2Go to help shed some light on the "LoMoSo" space.

8 ground-breaking websites

Jennifer Marlo

While there is no preset formula for creating a stellar website, there are a few notable commonalities that winning examples share. Consider these innovative executions.

Why viral video is a waste of money

Michael Estrin

Your brand just has to have a viral video for its next campaign, right? But is this an attainable goal? Find out what agencies really think when they hear the phrase "viral video."

4 cool video campaigns you might have missed

Jason Krebs

Brands are approaching video in a variety of new and creative ways. Here are several exceptional examples that all marketers should check out.

7 new ways brands can go mobile

Josh Lovison

Mobile is growing and cutting-edge brands are gearing up to ride the wave. Avoid a wipeout and rise to the top by heeding these do's and don'ts of mobile marketing.

Critical mom blogger realities that you're overlooking

Lori Luechtefeld

The term "mommy blogger" doesn't come close to accurately describing this dynamic and diverse group of influentials. Here are some insights and statistics that might surprise you.

7 things you need to know about location-based marketing

Sonia Meisenheimer

Whether you're ready to get started or still weighing your options, here are some considerations when plotting your brand's location-based strategy.

7 brands that post awesome Facebook updates

Lauren Friedman

As Facebook implements more ways for users to control the content in their news feeds, brands need to be especially creative to make the cut. Consider these proven approaches.

Missed opportunities in location-based marketing

Lori Luechtefeld

The ability to influence consumer behavior at or near the point of sale is a compelling opportunity. Learn why the challenges to launching such programs are fewer than you might think.

How one company bucked the marketing status quo

Lori Luechtefeld

Shifting media consumption patterns require marketers to turn some long-held best practices on their head. Visa's global CMO discusses how his company did just that.

The future of social gaming

Osas Obaiza

Social gaming is transforming the way people interact online. With rising time spent and numbers of users, it's a great time for brands to take notice of this medium's tremendous potential.

6 companies we don't want to see fail

Adam Kleinberg

As the economy rebounds, many companies are not out of the woods yet. Some will fail. Here are a few that marketers should pray do not.

How to harness the marketing power of humor

Lori Luechtefeld

Savvy advertisers can employ humor to persuade and encourage loyalty among consumers. Learn when, how, and why laughter can be the best marketing medicine.

The internet's most annoying campaigns

Jennifer Marlo

Irritating online ads can sway public opinion of a brand for the worse. Let's take a look at some examples and discuss what people found particularly grating about these campaigns.

A surprising way to win with social

Osas Obaiza

Your social networking skills and creative approach can lead to immeasurable online reach and brand awareness in the realm of games. Check out the brands that are scoring big in this field.

How to apply real-time benefits to premium ads

Ari Buchalter

New technologies that combine the processes for buying, managing, and optimizing media can benefit both buyers and sellers. Here are five reasons you should get involved in the private marketplace for premium ads.

Digital marketing's "next big things"

Karen Macumber

In an industry obsessed with predicting the future, a little logic can go a long way. Take a look at this formula for forecasting which trends will become game changers.

5 brands that got flogged by blogs

Lucia Davis

Bloggers don't hesitate to voice their objections to a brand. Read about five examples where the points raised caused major problems for the company in question, and learn from their mistakes.

Signs your email program is dying

Jeff Mills

Subtle trends in your campaign performance might point to a serious underlying illness. Here are some warning signs you don't want to ignore.

How to harness the "Sheen Effect" for your brand

Madhuri Shekar

Not sure how your brand can leverage the power of a big-name partner? Take the advice of some top entertainment partnership strategists as they reveal key processes, tips, and common mistakes to avoid.

The ABCs of the DMP

Jim Nichols

People are talking about so-called data management platforms, but will they make a real difference for your brand? Find out why the industry really needs to know about this new kind of marketing services provider.

10 silly questions clients love to ask

Denise Zimmerman

There's a good deal of ignorance out there with regard to our industry. Consider these uniformed client questions and learn how to formulate savvy answers.

How to get the most out of a conference

Michael Estrin

Industry events can be time well spent, but making the most of conferences is an art. Find out what you need to do to make your next tradeshow a masterpiece.

7 marketing tech trends you can't miss

Eric Anderson

The future is now. Consider all these fancy new technologies and trends you have to look forward to this year.

The next big things in video marketing

Josh Dreller

Online video has experienced a meteoric rise, but with that comes fierce competition for eyeballs and ad share. Here's what YouTube, Boxee, Hulu, and Xbox Live have planned to keep them on top.

Why the digital agency will never die

Russell Scott

While some might think that social platforms eliminate the need for a creative agency, in truth, these partners are vital to a brand's storytelling efforts. Find out why.

9 branded apps that people love

Jennifer Marlo

There is no predetermined formula for a successful branded app, but there are plenty of winners from which to take lessons. Consider these four distinct approaches to the app world, and meet the brands that pioneered them.

How to extend the life of the banner ad

Courtney Nowicki

There's a certain advantage to sustaining the life of your Super Bowl ads, but shouldn't the rest of your campaigns add the same value? Here are some tips for creating a handy catalog of your creative.

The best marketing advice I've ever received

Doug Schumacher

There's no shortage of suggestions circling our industry, but it's up to you to separate the good from the bad. These insights will help.

How to start building your brand ambassador community

Joanna Janus

Blogger communities can help promote -- or doom -- companies, products, and services that fall into their areas of interest. Find out how you can harness their power for the good of your brand.

How to design and develop for mobile sites

Mark Simpson

Creating a mobile site is a necessary -- but often frustrating -- task for digital marketers. Take a look at this step-by-step guide to getting it right.

Brands that have mastered content marketing

Rob Rose

Content marketing is not just a tactic. It's a new way of thinking about your entire marketing strategy. Let's meet the brands that do it best.

The most underestimated social media asset

Lori Luechtefeld

Your employees are the most valuable assets your brand has in forging social media connections. Learn how to inspire and enable your workforce.

Why outsourcing media makes you a better expert

Jim Nichols

Afraid to farm out your media planning operations because of quality or control concerns? Take a look at some scenarios where outsourcing can improve your client service.

A simple guide to how ad exchanges work

Josh Dreller

No matter how appealing ad exchange buying is becoming, there is still some mystery as to how the technology actually works. Here's an overview that will lend some clarity to the process.

8 things every marketer should know about the iAd

Christina Goodman

Not all brands are ready for an iAd campaign. Consider these points when deciding whether the platform warrants your mobile marketing dollars.

An overlooked route to viral success

Steve Glauberman

Despite the popularity of avatar-based marketing efforts, marketers are missing out on a more powerful method to create a highly personalized and emotional experience for each individual user.

Top 10 analytics tools for social media

Adam Boyden

Having trouble sifting through the hundreds of resources available for monitoring your social media presence? Check out these options that have already proven their worth.

The new rules for owning and controlling social data

Liza Hausman

How companies should manage their user data, privacy settings, and control options is likely to be a hot topic this year. Here are some steps that will help make sure you've got your bases covered.

Brand identity: Accelerated to scale

Jodi Harris

P&G's former branded entertainment manager is now innovating on the agency and VC sides of the branding game. See what he has to say about how mobile mania, "technopology," and the entrepreneurial drive will affect digital this year.

6 digital marketing words that must die

Jim Meskauskas

The language of online advertising is littered with the debris of words that have been lost, retired, or have simply passed away. Consider these examples.

Lessons in branding from the Republican Party

Lucia Davis

Regardless of your political leanings, the Republicans' success in the 2010 elections is undeniable. Find out how the winning strategies of the RNC can be applied to your brand.

How to leverage Facebook's news feed algorithm

Scott Meldrum

Your Facebook efforts are pointless if you don't understand the "wallnomics" behind your fans' news feeds. Learn how to harness the network's EdgeRank algorithm to maximize your reach.

The future of the app

Lori Luechtefeld

There's no denying that mobile marketing is at last coming into its own. So now what? AKQA Mobile's Tina Unterlaender offers some surprising thoughts on how the mobile world is likely to evolve.

6 mobile campaigns that put traditional sites to shame

Osas Obaiza

As the popularity of mobile continues to grow, what brands are taking full advantage of the channel's unique benefits? Let's take a look at a few examples.

8 reasons marketers can't trust Facebook

Douglas Karr

Is your business or your clients' marketing heavily dependent on Facebook? If so, you have more to lose than you think. Here's why.

How to keep the app from destroying the mobile web

Adam Broitman

The app economy is taking off, but is the walled-garden approach sustainable as marketers race to add value? See why it might be time to rethink this strategy, and consider a simplified way of engaging consumers.

7 tragic SEO oversights

Ramsay Crooks

As best practices in SEO become widely implemented, the finer details can make all the difference. Check out these simple opportunities you're missing.

What comes after "the year of mobile"

Lucia Davis

As mobile continues to boom, understanding consumer behavior is more important than ever. Read what Joy Liuzzo of InsightExpress has to say about it.

7 ways to make SMO work in the post-Google age

Ben Elowitz

SEO is fading away and the rules of engagement are, once again, changing. Here's a glimpse at how social media optimizaton (SMO) can be more effectively deployed and measured than its counterpart.

9 new rules for YouTube marketing

Greg Jarboe

The guidelines you once followed for YouTube have been changed, amended, or flat-out deleted. Let's get up to speed, shall we?

Top tech that will get marketers wired in 2011

Dana M. Harris

Ready for another year of helping your clients keep up with digital trends? Better brush up on your competency in these key areas if you want to stay ahead of the competition.

4 reasons you blew the RFP

Daniel Flamberg

Potential clients rarely tell you that you missed the mark, made a critical error, or your presentation stank. But you still lost the business. Why? Let's take a look.

How to crowdsource creative advertising

Michael Estrin

Turning to the masses for creative is nothing new, but scoring big with outsiders' ideas isn't so easy. Here's how effective crowdsourcers make a good idea great.

Gaming the system with skim-proof content

Madhuri Shekar

Most internet users just scan your painstakingly written copy and then move on. But here are a few quick writing tips to make sure your message gets across.

7 reasons ad networks go out of business

Jay Friedman

Why might an ad network of today not be around tomorrow? Consider these reasons -- some of which might surprise you.

Building the buzz that will boost your brand

Stephanie Bullis

Word of mouth is essential to digital marketing, yet few understand what really makes it click. Two of our experts go head-to-head to determine the keys to buzz-worthy communication.

9 basic tips every digital marketer needs

Oscar Padilla

There is a series of classic tactics that are essential to any digital program. Here are those basic -- yet critical -- techniques.

5 forces that could make Foursquare obsolete

Jonathan Richman

While it's not over yet, and Foursquare might have some tricks up its sleeve, there are a number of competing platforms that are slowly but surely doing everything Foursquare does, but better. Here's why.