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(image above Edwin Morgan in 1980 and proposed show title) There comes a point when you stop asking what you should create and start paying attention to what keeps returning. That is where I find myself this year. Over the past few months I've found myself returning,...
Dear D’Andy
“The country cannot rebuild its future while taxing workers harder than landowners, taxing business premises harder than passive land gains, and borrowing to invest while the returns from essential assets leave the country.”Andy, if you're to be our new Prime Minister...
Cold
Cold Hands, Clear Head I do not romanticise the cold. I choose it. That probably sounds odd, given I live with Raynaud’s. My fingers can turn white fast. Numbness arrives before common sense. I choose to step into cold showers every morning. I still walk into a biting...
Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere
Something That Hurts a Little I saw Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere yesterday, and those of you who know my music tastes, he's not among them but for a moment after the credits rolled, I just sat there. Not because it was profound in that tidy, cinematic way. But...
Mistake
Swallow the saliva, Grin like you mean it, Use your brave face, And accept you failed with grace. It started with intent, There were moments of joy, And moments of ploy; Fulfilling a dream or was it manifestation? Delighting in deference, Delighting in...
Art
As old age descends and the worry of dementia grows increasingly real, should we slow down and embrace the time we have with friends and family or speed up and make damn sure we cram in and achieve as much as possible? When you learn of those over achieving business...
Parting is a sweet gift
Parting is a sweet gift Divine is the intervention Among the detritous we drift If only to be seen in dissention. To lose our way, felt like disaster You had decided the outcome You needed it done, you wanted out faster You wern't waiting for the beat of the...
AI fan boy, or dangerous embracer?
I’m not sure when it happened exactly, but I’ve found myself caught somewhere between a cautious admirer and an AI fanboy. The kind of fanboy who can’t help but marvel at the potential, yet still glancing nervously over my shoulder, wondering if I'm embracing...
Tune in to Hell or High Water
Do you ever listen to movie soundtracks out of context? I don't mean the needle drops, the pieces deliberately included in the movie created for the movie? Often assigned composers and musicians are asked to write pieces to emphasise emotion that wasn't captured quite...
Twirling Cock
In my 30's and 40's I was running and setting up countless businesses, the majority were creative agencies. Some successful, some not so much. All were a lot of fun and I met some amazing people along the way. As a onetime buyer for Burberry and subsequently a...
Battered and bruised the trophy goes to
Some would argue that football creates more mental health issues than it solves and yet there's a new mood, a fresh perspective seeping into the homes of those once stoic, generational and determined supporters. It could be said that spending time with the neds,...
International Women’s Day & ChatGPT
Preface: I asked ChatGPT to write a blog post based on an experience I had this morning. Write a Blog post that starts: Walking across the beach this morning in front of our cottage I got chatting to a woman who was travelling around the country, alone in her car,...
A fractured voice whose vowels were impenetrable
The Horror in Clay - This song is by Mark E. Smith and appears on the album: The Post Nearly Man (1998) The most merciful thing in the world is man's inability to correlate all of his mind's contents. But the sciences one day, some say it is already upon us, will...
Easter Weekend 2020
Ok, so the UK is in the grip of COVID-19, while most people are in various states of distress I find myself a key part of a Start-up, created merely 2 months ago. The initial impetus for the business was the delivery of energy units that use non-recyclable waste, also...
illicit stills and family wills
Fumbling about in the semi-dark Jean sat down, quickly removed her ankle wellies and socks, dropped them into a plastic feed sack and set off in her bare feet. The wind whipped her scarf over her glasses, tucking it down into her jacket, she pulled the zip up further...
Chips in the brain – Elon Musk introduces Neuralink
Excited at the prospect.
IBM Q – The Future Is Unwritten And Yet… Hello Quantum Computing
One year WIRED challenged IBM's Dr. Talia Gershon (Senior Manager, Quantum Research) to explain quantum computing to 5 different people; a child, teen, a college student, a grad student and a professional. The comments alone in this youtube clip are hilarious, however...
Daphne I love you – even with the ridiculous facial surgery
Ten Songs You Never Knew You Needed Until The Sun Came Out
I was in Wester Ross for our Easter break this year, see picture above and "Wee T" (daughter) who is currently living and working in New York wrote a blog post titled: 10 Song Scenarios You Never Knew You Needed. This is my response to her scenarios: The one that...
Stop Being a DICK – oh, wait – Maybe You Need to Be a DICK
This is a question that has been eating away at Max Joseph for a long time, so he decided to make a movie about it. This is also the first video in a new series he is doing. Max is one of life's nice guys - he also happens to be a film Director. Follow him on Vero to...
Tony Walsh reads out emotional poem at a Manchester vigil
Choose LOVE over HATE, Choose Life over dying a slow lingering defeat. Embrace every second like it's your last. Your life is to be lived so DO MORE. -Colin Gilchrist-
Update on Colin Gilchrist April 2017
I've now spent time working in Las Vegas, London and Lithuania (Kaunus). Although now very happy to reside in Leith. I'm an Angel investor in a number of Startups (SAAS to Pharma). I've helped launch 6 new companies (in the last 10 years) - film and tv, ad...
BRITALIA – Harvey Nichols
Attending the Wine tasting event at Edinburgh's 4th Floor Restaurant Talor and I had a great time - I'm sharing the highlights with you: First up: Cantine Ferrari - a fine fizz offered in: Ferrari Maximum Brut, Trento DOC NV - not too brut, slightly Cava'esque more...
Caress of the Gaze
My life is now complete - Caress of the Gaze is an interactive 3D-printed wearable top which can detect other people’s gaze and respond accordingly with life-like behavior. This project offers a vision of the future by exploring the possibility of a second skin...
WANTED: Ladieswear Assistant Manager
Dear friends of mine are looking for some support in their stores in Kelso; the role is Assistant Manager to Ladieswear, the job spec goes as follows: We are seeking a strong Assistant Manager to work within the Ladieswear department of a multi-award winning...
What do your Pinterest Boards reveal about you?
I've become fascinated by the amount of people "repinning" to the extent that it has become a challenge to see how many I can generate without succumbing to populist pins - weird, or normal? Pinterest have it going on, the gamification model is good, the business...
Johnnie Walker – Dear Brother 2015
STUDENTS MAKE A BREATHTAKING SPEC AD FOR JOHNNIE WALKER. It deserves to be viewed immediately. CREDITS: Regie: Dorian Lebherz, Daniel TitzKamera: Jan GuentherFilmmusik: Renée AbeSounddesign: Marvin KeilProducer: Madlen Folk, Johann ValentinitschSprecher: John...
Talor Tries: Skinny Spaghetti Carbonara
Published on Dec 9, 2015 FANS OF SPAGHETTI CARBONARA, I suggest you have a watch of Talor's latest recipe review, it is from Jamie Oliver's (her favourite chef...ever) SKINNY carbonara....that's right! A version of your favourite meal that will make you feel a lot...
The Nectarine No.9 To Perform ‘Saint Jack’ Live in London
Here's a gig I'd love to be at: Nectarine No.9 are fronted by Davy Henderson, formerly of The Fire Engines and Win, hailed by Irvine Welsh as “a genius” currently of SOB's (Sexual Objects) fame. Heavenly Records have decided to reissue ‘Saint Jack’ by The Nectarine...
Your meat consumption is killing the planet
See! I told you Now about your diet...
Talor Tries – Puff Pastry Breakfast
Looking forward to getting invited to taste it...! http://talorgilchrist.com
Youtube goes 3D – Your Free Headset
It's what you've been waiting for, right? https://www.google.com/get/cardboard/Now you just add 3D Video to your Youtube search and hey presto, your world just became a lot less distracting, or are you about to lose yourself?
Talor Tries – Daughter does Halloween Treats
Talor's Blog can be found at Talor Gilchrist's "Cup of Tee"
Two Childhood Heroes
My relationship with Kathy Acker started with "Blood and Guts in High School" published in 1984 (Kathy on Wikipedia)
APHIDS, Epic Contemporary Art Projects
Aphids creates epic contemporary art projects using performance, music, site-specificity and new technologies. The 2015 showreel: Aphids Showreel 2015 from Aphids Projects on Vimeo.
Are we killing our grandchildren by buying that leather jacket?
Burgeoning in the cities of Scotland we can see the growth of business hubs that nurture small companies and the buzz that it is creating. Fashion and retail is playing a part; the beauty, textile, fashion and jewellery designers are all seeing an upturn in their...
Immigration – god damn it!
My hero: http://holliepoetry.com/Are you sexing it up?
ULTRAS – The Path to Getting Paid
ULTRAS - are a new band from Glasgow, fronted by songwriter Gav Prentice formerly of Pop Duo 'Over The Wall', ULTRAS deliver electronic-infused rock music with confidence and bite. EDINBURGH:Friday 29th MayTIME: 19.00 - 22.00ACTS: Stealing Sheep, ULTRAS, Blank...
Candy for Cuties – Future Fashion
What is your vision for fashion? The images above are from 1939. Are we returning to an age when we invest in a really good piece and only purchase a new one when there's a special event or to replace a staple? In 1939 (short film below) they took a guess at what...
This is not a skylight
Architecture just got really interesting. Running out of space in your house? Did you think about digging down? Welcome to http://www.coelux.com/
Margiela and Galliano AW15
You'd heard of Maison Margiela before... right? Renzo Rosso, President of the OTB Group (owner of Margiela, along with: Diesel, Marni Viktor & Rolf...) appointed John Galliano as the Creative Director not long after... that incident (October 2014). Two things stand...
Ask Your Staff
If you want to solve a problem, increase your turnover, consider the delivery of a new product or service, expand a division, drop a client - have you ever thought to discuss it with more than just the immediate influencers in your business? Okay, so maybe not all...
Stewart Lee – “On Not Writing”
I love this man's ability to manipulate language
New Eyes
New EyesA gym body to curves in all the right placesA saviour that delights, chats that are aces.Fixated on weight and previous partner,Easily forgiven for being my garter.My desire, my passion, my true love revealedShe is the one, all others repealed.Our partnership,...
Wee T
Wee TShe is my delight, my twinkling starDelivered so young and achieved so muchA young life lead with a path many would dreamConstantly inspiring and providing guiltI feel so humbled to call her mineMoulded by many, she touches the worldThe world looks back and bows...
Poem 1
Sing when you're winningWalk when you're stressingShare when you're lovingandSilence when you're fizzingplease
REAL-TIME FACE TRACKING & PROJECTION MAPPING
OMOTE / REAL-TIME FACE TRACKING & PROJECTION MAPPING. from something wonderful OMOTE / REAL-TIME FACE TRACKING & PROJECTION MAPPING. from something wonderful on Vimeo.
The beginning of a motorcycle tech revolution
What every motorcyclist has been waiting for has arrived. Find out more Here - Indiegogo
Shock Tactics in Advertising – The Drum
Ben Frost, Artist
Ben Frost has an Exhibition showing in Brighton's No Walls Gallery entitled supermarket Sweep Here's one of the images from Hunger TV where you can see more. The vimeo video below is from his previous show.
Solar Roadways
Solar Roadways have been discussed for quite sometime (officially from 2006) now real progress has been made and there's little excuse for Council's to completely ignore it as a viable option
I am i8, BMW electric car
My one question to BMW - Gull-wing doors! Why?
How do you get to work?
The picture that's making cars look stupid for 20 years (Credit). This photograph taken in 1991 shows how much road space 72 people would need if they used bicycles vs. cars vs. a bus...
Where is the Future taking us?
The VW L1, a car that achieves 300mpg (it's a hybrid, obviously) - yes it exists.The Johammer J1 Electric motorbike - yes it exists.Clearly these Pterodactyl Jets are from that brilliant Mancunian Bastiaan Koch rather than ready to roll off the line at Lockheed...
Art History Crash Course
Using the 2.5D effect, Rino Stefano Tagliafierro brought these paintings to life from Caravaggio to Rubens. CREDIT - DIGG
Social Tailor Training – Trade Secrets given away!
At the Social Tailor we deliver social media and content strategies that really work - and here we are giving away our trade secrets! Well, when we say giving away... Is your social media providing increased sales, higher productivity and better brand awareness? Maybe...
Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook. Gary Vaynerchuk interviewed by Marie Forleo
A great insight into this brilliant book; have you got yours yet? Amazon Listing for Jab Jab Jab Hook
Girl’s Stop the #Fattalk
Who else is frustrated at hearing this - let's hear the stuff you love. I admit the creator of the piece leaves a nasty taste... pun intended but the message is bang on.
Hear the Drummer get Wikid
No effects!
Zappos Takes Down Kanye West
Kanye West reportedly said: "I got into this giant argument with the head of Zappos that he's trying to tell me what I need to focus on. Meanwhile, he sells all this shit product to everybody, his whole thing is based off of selling shit product." So Zappos responds...
Kanye West – Creative – Thank you
Are you a Creative that has a vision for a better world? Have you conquered your niche and have a vision for aspects within our world that you know you can influence for a better place to live and be? Here is the interview between Kanye West and BBC Radio 1's Zane...
Feels With Me by The Sexual Objects
When you come across a band called The Sexual Objects - what's the first thing comes to mind? Yup, me too. Well their launch / latest single called Feels With Me is a revelation - quite frankly it's lovely, no change that; it's great. What do you think? (video filmed...
TeenCanteen – Honey – latest love
I've no idea what it is but the accents, poignancy, acoustic done so well, clearly a passionate vocal, varying tempo's - maybe it's just the fact that it's a Neu Reekie production! Love it.
Stairway to Heaven
Have you ever been in a band? What's the first song you think of when walking into a music shop and look at the guitars? Stairway to Heaven is up there with most accomplished guitarists - most now look down on it. I stumbled across this version this morning and apart...
Surrey Police Twitter – is yours this good?
Continuing our series of occasional weather raps… Yo, back up now and give a brother room The roads are wet and you’re about to go #boom— Surrey Police (@SurreyPolice) September 6, 2013This is no joke - this approach to reach out and engage whilst also...
The Caterpillar Tango, by Jesus, Baby
How often do you stumble across a piece of genuine mastery from over a year ago, only to discover you know two of the people involved personally? I love this - the song, the video, the production - it's a great piece of work created by some of Edinburgh's little...
Change the World or go Home
Like our Facebook page and support the cause: https://www.facebook.com/TheHappinessFoundAre we at the beginning of a revolution in spreading positive energy through the work that we do, the people that we meet and the words that we speak - or is this just me?I...
Alex Salmond – You’re improving with Age
Colin Gilchrist – how do you do what you do?
Passion, Creativity and Energy.I am often asked how do you do what you do? It's asked by students, people I work with, people I've just met - hell, my own family. My name is Colin Gilchrist and I love what I do. Can you say that? My Twitter BIO says "... if I'm awake...
Not Cynical, The Proclaimers
Love it, sing it, share it xx
Scottish Independence – Secrets and Lies
MOG, Black ‘N’ White
In Black 'N' White by MOG
Sorry what?
Thank you for the increased friendship of late - very much appreciated. xx
Social Media Content, LinkedIn Influencers
Clara Shih (pronounced shy) we chatted (via email) when her book "The Facebook Era" was first published and Brian Solis, author of a few different business books but ultimately talks about the convergence of media and influencers - in this conversation at "South by...
Work on your weaknesses - what a load of bollocks. Gary Vaynerchuk shares his views on the art of marketing:
Love is a wonderful thing
Although can be equally destructive when affecting others - Love is a wonderful thing - thank you Walt Disney.
Self Analysis – Jung
Today apparently I am: initiators of change, keenly perceptive of possibilities. They energize and stimulate others through their contagious enthusiasm. They prefer the start-up phase of a project or relationship, and are tireless in the pursuit of new-found...
Loving Google+
Bradley Horowitz, Google+'s VP of product (read Boss) explains why it's a network that is more socially switched on and pertinent than FB - and I agree. Aside from the brilliant integrated nature of the product with Search, Video Conferencing (Hangouts) and a plethora...
Brad Pitt, War Z, New Movie, Glasgow
The trailer is here! Although the film won't be released until June 2013 we can see already that Glasgow's George Square plays a big part in the movie. I always love a big action movie and this one is ticking a few boxes!
Social Media Statistics November 2012
credits to Wallblog for source.
Nick
Jake Davis Test Shots: Nick Wooster from Jake Davis on Vimeo.
A badly handled business crisis makes a company more profitable
My Sister Paid Progressive Insurance to Defend Her Killer In Court. Did you hear about this story earlier this year? (Matt Fisher Tumblr) Bottom line it turned into a social media bun fight made even worse by the auto response script used on Progressive Insurance's...
Prince Mahoo
New member of our family...
The Sartorialist Dinner, Florence
That this could happen my life time - and I've been to Florence 4 times and know this restaurant - maybe I'll get the nod next year 🙂
The Power of Words – The Red Balloon
Are you a balloon?
David Cerny Olympic Bus
The artist David Cerny is known for his extra-ordinary work, not least pieces like: His latest piece is more mechanical and attributed to this week's London Olympics - something vaguely Trumpton'esque about it. Are you thinking flagrant self promotion or just amused...
Thank you Grace Coddington
135 Shots That Will Restore Your Faith in Cinema from Flavorwire on Vimeo. http://www.flavorwire.com/?p=310079Shared with me by Grace Coddington
Gamification – it’s the way to go
from those wonderful people at Matmi!! Gamification: A New Way of Marketing View more PowerPoint from Matmi Cheers Jeff - great shout.
Content Inspiration for Blog Writing
I came across this very amusing infographic that is actually on the money 9 times out of 10... Like this infographic? Get more content marketing tips from Copyblogger.It's good to share! Find it on CopyBlogger
Judy R Clark: A Brand is Born! Spencer Collection – A/W 2012/13…
Judy R Clark: A Brand is Born! Spencer Collection - A/W 2012/13...: The past few months have been non stop! Spencer clothing has taken a lot of work but I am enjoying the process immensely. From being...
Would you like an international client?
I am now working internationally, could you be? All businesses are going to need to find ways of improving their performance over the next 12 months to ensure that they remain profitable, and to do that they are going to need to look at a range of options they have...
Introducing a new fashion collection
The challenge of introducing a new brand is difficult enough, the idea of building a following for something that is an assumption based on the people involved is harder still. So I introduce the idea that those Journalists and bloggers involved in the first photo...
Merry Christmas for an old fart
A girls night out out allows peace to reign throughout the house; delighting in the space and silence he finds a bottle of Gin and a bottle of Bitter Lemon bought for a party and never opened. Christmas lights twinkle on the tree in the bay window, reflecting in the...
Talent versus Skill, Will Smith shares.
An inspirational montage of Will Smith sharing his thoughts on life and the best way to achieve!
A social gag to make your business stand out?!
Have you thought of anything recently to make your business stand out from the crowd? British Gas did this: British Gas Orchestra from Outside Line on Vimeo.
Facebook Healthcheck
I see so many businesses creating Facebook profiles that break the terms and conditions set down by Facebook that I worry the businesses don't realise all their hard work could and is likely to be deleted... So I figured why not carry out a FREE audit and let...
Too Pis**d to care?
I like this campaign - this Danish night bus company have made a great attempt at "know your limits!"
Tesco do Genius in South Korea
Where do your customers / clients congregate? How can you make their life easier? Are you solving their problems or are you pushing products?When you stop and contemplate this proposition it is so damn simple and yet... get your thinking caps on people, how can this...
Finding content to write about!
One of the challenges for the social age is finding content to write about that:Show's your passionReveals your interestsDelivers a piece of your lifeIs directed at your audienceRecognises a trend or jumps on a PR WaveIs part of a storyFalls into synch with a bigger...
Hotel connects Facebook with tech wristbands
And there was me thinking Ibiza was only good for updating Facebook...
The Tweeting Fridge by Bonafont
A gimic with great intentions - The Tweeting Fridge by BonafontThe Tweeting Fridge from Colin Gilchrist on Vimeo.
Social Media Strategy Training
I am commissioned by the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce to provide sessions on Social Media - so instead of looking at some tools and case studies that most people aspire to but bear no relevance to an Edinburgh SME we look at Strategy Planning.What I mean - every...
Digital Professionals Wanted!
Some of you will know that a certain Jill Gilchrist (wife) has set up her own recruitment business after 16 years of doing it for someone else and guess what? It's called: Gilchrist Recruitment Partnership.It can be the making of an agency, finding that person that...
Why take a pad and pen to a meeting?
I am often sniggered at when I go to various tech "meet-ups" by the geeks who often whip out their gadgets and furiously tap away as conversations develop, or speakers make it clear there will no hand-outs. Little do they realise that those of us with just a smidge of...
Social Media Strategic Crisis Planning – Just do it!
Over the past few years I have talked to a number of groups and individuals about how to prepare for a social media crisis (clearly avoiding it in the first place is the best preparation - and that mostly comes down to training and application...).A guy I know has put...
Engage Invest Exploit 2011
Wishing all exhibitors and attendees every success - I thoroughly enjoyed last year, it promises to be another cracker: #EIE11 University of Edinburgh Informatics
Inspiration from Artist Jeremy Geddes
As someone that has been an exhibited artist I do sometimes long to return to a life that affords me the time to spend 5 focussed hours a day pouring over one canvas - seeing this work by Jeremy Geddes brings it more to the fore than ever.Jeremy Geddes website - blog
Gabriel Gettman does a promo for CIRCUS – Jodie Harsh’s club night
A Piece of Creative Genius - highly entertaining a little bit shocking and a teency bit naughty.Circus Promo by Gabriel Gettman from F.TAPE on Vimeo.
STV editors to outline future and opportunities of new STV Local service
A panel of top executives behind the hyper local news and information website STV Local will be delivering a Business Breakfast in Edinburgh in May at which they will outline what the new service will offer communications and marketing professionals in Scotland and...
The success of Facebook “Likes” at a Conference
Company Video – what does yours say?
Have you got a company video?Does it include the CEO dancing and putting in false teeth?But then maybe it's only had 100 visits and those from family and friends... this one has 35,000 and climbingZAPPOS, an online store that likes its customers (and staff)
Stovies, SKY, Dustin Hoffman
If the brilliant actor Dustin Hoffman had been born Scottish things may have been a bit different.
Social Media Unleashed, The Lighthouse, Glasgow
Tonight I (Digital Face) found myself sharing the stage with some amazing businesses - clearly I'm doing something right.The event was the brainchild of Arvind Salwan at New Media Corp and Tim Wright at Twintangibles producing an amazing array of business leaders for...
Pure gold from the genius pen of Aaron Sorkin
Forgive me - this was shared on my Facebook wall today and I feel obliged to share it - if you're not familiar with the West Wing series you will maybe gleen a flavour of the script writing by Aaron Sorkin.
Digital Face Social Media Policy Document
In the interests of sharing I offer the document that subsequently created our Social Media Policy:Digital Face Social Media PolicyThis policy governs the publication of and commentary on social media by employees of Digital Face and its related companies ("Digital...
17 things you may not know about Online Advertising
Fallon Brainfood: Fall0nylitics 2.1
The Daily – the future for news?
Rupert Murdoch thinks so...
Social Media Strategy Planning and Training at Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce
I have been commissioned to deliver training sessions for the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce - one is Business-to-Business, the other is Business-to-Consumer.Social Media Strategy Planning for Sales, Marketing and Customer Care (Business-to-Business)Monday 14 March...
Quantum Languages want to make you smile.
And what's more they're publishing (pushing) their language vacancies...
Greatest short film ever made? Gamers you’ll love it.
A fight between an 8-bit superhero and a high-def boss, in a retro-gaming world.Programmer's Note: Assaulting the senses with dazzling visual imagery and gloriously over-the-top action, this high-octane animated adventure plays with classic video-game archetypes while...
Without Love there is nothing – Perfect Sense Movie Trailer
A Sigma Films production, Directed by David Mackenzie, starring Ewan McGregor and Eva Green
Arianna Huffington sleep your way to the top… Literally.
That legend Arianna Huffington of Huffington Post fame gives a talk at a TED conference in Washington in December last, saying to the ladies, to succeed, sleep your way to the top... Literally.
UK Work Flexibility
It's a new year, so let's make good some of those resolutions we looked at last year! The prime one for many is spending more time with loved ones. I often spout about the importance of a happy stress free work environment to maximise a business through better more...
Product Placement becomes legal on UK TV
This post is a direct duplication taken from my copy on The DrumClick here to viewSo we heard earlier this week (thanks Marketing Week) that product placement will become legal on UK TV screens from February 2011.What will be the impact on production values within...
LeWeb 2010 – Gary Vaynerchuk, Host, Wine Library TV, Author, CrushIT
The genius of Gary Vaynerchuk on Q&A at Le Web 2010
Fake Tan and Celebrity Choices – The Social Tailor
We thought we’d get some advice from those Skin Care guru’s LookAbFab, who have put together an insight on who wears what… why, because we’re nosey and we want to know! Joan Robertson says:Celebrity Fans of Xen-Tan – Heidi from the Sugababes, Olsen Twins, Holly...
Marc Jacobs Bag (worth $595) Giveaway
The Marc Jacobs bag Giveaway ends at 10:00 EST on the 17th December 2010. No purchase necessary. Open to both registered and not registered visitors. Only one entry per person. Enter by clicking the picture. Brought to you by Simply Sample SalesGood luck!
Size 12 is the new 8 – no really!
I make no excuses for the fact that I am a fan of the fuller figure – androgynous, heroin chic does not work for me – hell I’ve questioned before the state of some of those dreadful skeletons that grace the catwalks around the world. But get this – there’s a mini...
Scarlett Johansson influencing fashion?
This is Scarlett working with Mango - is she influencing fashion? Let us know what you think here: http://wp.me/pDt7F-c2
The Dream Christmas Party Dress
Saskia the Salsa Fairy (Kirsten Read) writes about her dream Christmas Party Dress for The Social Tailor: http://socialtailor.com/2010/11/23/alexander-mcqueen-lion-silk-jacquard-kimono-cape/
Kate Middleton has made it Wedding Dress Season!
Go to The Social Tailor to read the article.
Spiderhole The Movie
Spiderhole Trailer from Patrick O'Neill on Vimeo.I met the Director and mate in Claridges bar when I was last in London - it was the night after the film had opened on Leicester Square - Daniel was of course waxing lyrical about his next project - which sounded...
Zappos visits Twitter
Twitter is not a broadcast tool!
I was listening recently to Gordon White's Social Media Podcast - one where a panel were offering advice, hints and tips at a New Media Breakfast on: best use, the law, how to build a following and so on. A question that came from the floor by an inexperienced - but...
London Fashion Week – invitations
Ok, so we’re starting to get invitations to cover a number of shows 18th – 22nd February 2011 during London Fashion Week – we couldn’t be more thrilled – thank you to those that have sent them so far (we like the early bird). There are a few that we’d still like to...
Advertising Award season
Last years film by Family a little piece of genius.Scottish Design Awards intro film from Family on Vimeo.
Digital Publishing for the iPad Generation
My latest post for The Drum magazine - questioning the lack of creativity in design applied to a failing newspaper industry and the appearance of the latest activity for the new boy on the block - iPad.See the article HERE
Social Media Marketing Action Plan
Madonna, Photo shoot May 20101. Target specific people - i.e. Madonna fans2. Be a thought leader - why would you be so random to use a picture of Madonna - to provoke discussion!3. Be authentic and transparent - Our sister blog (Social Tailor) discussed Madonna's...
Scotland’s Leading Private Companies 2010
As shared on my post for The Drum marketing magazine: http://bit.ly/bZn0SQ
Social Media Marketing by Colin Gilchrist
If you are business wondering how to apply a social media strategy to your marketing activities this is the process that continues to work for me and the businesses that employ my services.1. I research and visit the business - to assess:The products and...
SXSW Interactive On the Road: Hugh Macleod part 2
Great advice for next years SXSW event - pee on the hydrant!Cheers Hugh 😉
Please Teacher – may I have some more?
Hells teeth lad - if you know what's good for you...A story being retold around the country for those poor teachers and pupils bursting at the gunnels for more room - and what's the answer they're looking for: "more classrooms are on their way!"The one...
Blogworld
The blog is the centre of the universe when it comes to managing a social media strategy for a business – to hell with Twitter, Facebook and Linkedin – get the blog right first. It might not be the sexiest piece of kit in the world but it’s what allows you to build a...
Burberry bring it home
Grant McCracken that legendary MIT guy who is banging on about businesses requiring a Culture Officer - which by the way I whole heartedly support (but that's for another post) reminded me that I'd commented on his article about Burberry's new CEO: Angela Ahrendts - I...
Twitters Got Talent
All you Twitter fans bursting with an opportunity to share your theatrical brilliance you now have a platform viewed by thousands - as featured on the BBCTo find out more: http://www.twittersgottalent.tv/
My Kind of Vending Machine!
Linkedin – Building your personal Brand
I was lucky enough to be asked to present to the Junior Chamber International on building the Personal Brand through Linkedin - it was a great session that I can honestly say I learnt a few things from myself. Other speakers included Jackie Cameron of Cameron...
Cyclist Lust
Is that something to lust over?I'm just thinking about the nose of the rear cyclist...To see the full story go hear: Specialized SHIV Tandem concept bike
Gies a Snog Doll! Eh?
My latest piece for The Drum:Picture creditSocial media marketing is not a sales pitch; it is a forum for finding your customers and courting them so they will come to love and adore you; it’s a relationship that needs nurtured and is more high maintenance than you’re...
test-image-dentist
Posted via email from colingilchrist's posterous
Burberry, London Fasion week 2010
Not long now and Chris Baileys latest collection will be revealed for Burberry at London Fashion week - I was not his biggest fan for the last collection. His swags did nothing for me however I should say I have a lot of respect for his vision for the brand and the...
Future Screen Technology
We want this world and we want it now!I've seen various things like this at the TED conference, not quite as slick but almost... 2006 (http://www.ted.com/talks/jeff_han_demos_his_breakthrough_touchscreen.html)
Foursquare, Burgled or Brilliant?
My Latest post for the Drum Marketing Magazine:There can be no doubt that “foursquare” is dividing the online social community – if you’ve never come across it, check it out and form your own opinion. In brief it is a smart phone application that allows its user...
Going the Distance with Drew Barrymore
There is no doubt Drew Barrymore is a gorgeous girl; I’ve been a long time admirer and hell was in the artists village with her when she was at T in the Park in 2007 with Fabrizio (Strokes Drummer). Drew’s in the UK doing the rounds promoting her latest flick...
Admorspace Modular Buildings get a Digital Face
Admorspace Modular Buildings have never before had a web presence and yet have been trading for a number of years - an unusual phenomenon in this day and age. Admorspace design and deliver both bespoke and readymade “Off-Site” modular buildings. They construct the...
Blog activity moved
Hello all - just a heads up - my blogging activity has more or less moved to The Drum Marketing Magazine - although admittedly it's subsided of late :(If you're interested in knowing what is really good at Edinburgh Fringe Festival - the following Twitter aggregator...
I’m liking Digital Face!
If you're wondering, I'm just testing!!
Iron Baby – the shizzle.
But seriously, who's got the time... Clearly you do if you see an opportunity to promote what you do for a living 4.5 million views and counting:
The Durex Baby App
Although a mock-up still inspired, not that I'm thinking about my 17yr old or anything...Durex Baby from Peter Ammentorp on Vimeo.
Part of a lost generation?
This video is doing the rounds, clever and moving.
Scottish Top Track Private Companies
The Sunday Times list came out today for the UK; I always make a point of checking out the Scottish contingent - so here goes:Arnold Clark, Glasgow, £2,139,000 - Automobiles (went from 12th place to 15th)KCA Deutag Group, Aberdeen, £1,016,000 - Drilling Contractor...
Social Media Monitoring – Future?
Is this the future for businesses that want to monitor their own brand?
St Margaret’s School, Edinburgh in Liquidation!
St Margaret's School for girls in Edinburgh has been put into provisional liquidation by the RBS appointed KPMG - a sad day indeed. My association with it is limited, my sister went there, some previous girl friends (ahem) and so I have some fond memories (some...
Update on Digital Face
I thought I would bring you up to date on activities at Digital Face - it's been a while for some of you.Website Activity:We have just recently been commissioned to replace RB Farquhar's Manufacturing website - it will also sport translation services care of Christian...
Social Media Policy
Social Media Policy Document on The Drum!Believe me, you'll be glad you read this my latest piece for The Drum Marketing magazine.
Michael Birch sold Bebo for £420m, would you like to know more?
Michael Birch, Bebo | Smarta
Edinburgh 10’s a tremendous day out
Do you know an event that needs some publicity - I came across 'Chris Bain Video Productions' page on facebook - it's not the slickest production in the world, but hell they know how to make you smile!Edinburgh Rugby 10's 2010 from CHRIS BAIN VIDEO PRODUCTIONS on...
Linkedin is rude!
People are now beginning to realise that Linkedin is an amazing business development tool - that cold calling is almost no longer required and compared to using an introductory email you are 25% more likely to achieve a response.I learned fairly recently that when you...
Adam Street
If you are ever in London, need somewhere to hold a meeting, have a bite to eat I can not recommend Adam Street enough, it's been a while since I was last there but I came across an intro vid for the club and just reminded me of the good times spent there.It's...
How to appeal to Cat owners – Thanks PaddyPower !
How to build a Massive online Community!
How to Build a Massive online CommunityThe holly grail - it's the answer to all your problems - surely if you gets loads of people to religiously come back time and again, with loads of their fans, friends too - you've got it made.Needless to say I've read...
Hello Boys… do you like your food?
As someone who's always had a soft spot for Miss Dahl I was intrigued to learn of her new direction in making a living,should we be surprised or delighted that she takes the opportunity to share her sense of taste in food?As a long standing fan of Jamie Oliver and the...
Blogity blog blog
Right - you've woken up, it's a wee bit earlier than usual and you think "you know what I've not written on my blog for a wee while - now's the time..." because you have the time, then you stop and think, well this wasn't very well planned, what am I going to share...
Figured it out yet?
Have you figured it out yet?There's TV, Radio, Press, Billboards, Direct Mail, Websites... and there's Social Media - it's simply another way of communicating your message. The difference being of course - you are no longer pushing information but creating...
Nike Air – the secret
It's a simple idea, beautifully executed - I want there to be a punch, the film is missing that wallop, don't you think?
LinkedIn and the restrictive covenant
My latest post for The Drum questions the right for a business to protect itself when its business development team are using LinkedIn - who owns the client?http://thedrum.co.uk/blogs/colingilchrist/2010/04/02/restrictive-covenant-for-linkedin/
RB Farquhar Bathroom Pods
At Digital Face we have been really fortunate to be working with RB Farquhar. As an online design and marketing business the majority of our business has been concentrated around commercial and residential property markets. RB Farquhar are the worlds best at providing...
The best political party?
Are you one of those people that always upsells? Everything is just amazing and clearly better than anyone would consider because clearly you are the dogs bollocks and that's just the way of it.Or do you say it the way it is? A factual realist that er's on the side of...
The last advertising agency in the world?
The Last Advertising Agency On Earth from FITC on Vimeo.I wonder - will it strike a chord or be ignored?
Have you got 38 minutes?
My latest blog post for The Drum marketing magazine.
How hot is your logo?
LogoToaster
Google Wave revisited
Sharlyn Lauby at Mashable has just posted an article about Google Wave - yes I know, we'd pretty much forgotten about it.For my tuppence worth I offer this (as discussed with Tim Barlow last Friday) - there are a number of reasons why it's not taking off or being...
Edinburgh Coffee Morning
It gets lots of mentions, grows arms and legs and is a living breathing community that consistently turns up every Friday morning at 8:00am at CentOtre 103 George Street.I haven't mentioned it for a while but a previous post can be seen here: EdCM = Edinburgh Coffee...
200,000 visits and climbing
My old buddy Colin Usher pointed out to me (and a few others) that a wee viral video we made a couple of years back has had over 200,000 visits and it's still climbing. Here's a wee production still of the "Two Colin's" in action - the final version although heavily...
Who do you know?
Your community grows by association - who do you know?My latest blog post for The Drum
Touchdown!
Back from an amazing holiday - loads to catch up on.A log cabin miles from anywhere with no mobile signal and the only internet access was going to be dial-up, only that wasn't even working (thanks BT).Our little piece of paradise:
Dave the social media penguin made me do it
I am already a fan of Dave the social media penguin and was delighted to be offered the opportunity to add to his blog.My article is specifically for Non profits but is equally relevant to commercial businesses: LINK
Partner Business
Company Net have real vision when approaching and implementing a project.It is clear to me by the very calibre of their clients that they are a force to be recognised in the world of .Net development.I can not recommend them enough for their sheer tenacity and...
Love Magazine’s Prada thing
The LOVE Thing from LOVE on Vimeo.A couple of things I have trouble with:1. LOVE Magazine / Prada, choose girls who have eaten in the past year.2. Fur - really, get a grip.3. What is there to love in this short... the music - no wait, the way it was filmed.You can see...
Digital Face Tease
Relaunched the Digital Face Tease shop - check it out and let me know what you think?Shop can be found here: http://digitalface.spreadshirt.co.uk/
Zappos – Tony Robbins – Business Mastery
Check out this SlideShare Presentation: Zappos - Tony Robbins - Business Mastery - 01-16-10View more presentations from zappos.
$1 Billion from Social Media
My latest post for The Drum, Marketing and Advertising Magazine
Apple IPad – abuse
I'm guessing when Steve Jobs made his announcement yesterday about the new Apple IPad he wasn't expecting this:
Agency Recruitment
My latest post for The Drum can be found here: http://thedrum.co.uk/blogs/colingilchrist/2010/01/28/agency-recruitment/
Social Media Seminar – Expert?
Image credits hereToday I delivered a social media seminar for an advertising business and their clients and contacts (I'll get their permission before I mention them). It was interesting for me on a number of different levels but mainly the difference 6 months can...
What businesses use what social network?
Image care of MarketingProfs Research
Use of Videos Produced for Viral Release
Care of the MarketingProfs Research
Social Media for Business, 10 steps
I keep being asked for copies of the presentations that I provide to the various workshops and seminars that I deliver - if I put them all up on here what use would there be in paying me to come along...!As a compromise however - I have decided to post the odd...
Facebook – for Business – I think so, don’t you?
Facebook for business - I think so, don't you?Top 50 Facebook Pages 2009View more documents from Willis Wee.
What is fashion? Burberry in the spotlight
Are you Fashionable – or maybe you like classics – does that say more about your age than your personality?Did you catch the media frenzy around Christopher Bailey’s latest collection for Burberry – I mean, hell, in my opinion it was horrendous – mounds of fabric...
Self Defense
Ok confession time - I'm sitting here watching Miss Congeniality, the reason I mention this - "Gracie Lou Freebush" (stage and cover name for Sandra Bullock), her final talent in the Miss United States Pageant is self defense...Self defense of your brand online is one...
Merry Christmas!
Image credits
Christmas: Edinburgh Social Media stylee
Edinburgh Coffee Morning Christmas Choir: from digitalagency on Vimeo.
Social Media – the best blogging description
c/o Hugh Macleod: http://www.gapingvoid.com Posted via email from colingilchrist's posterous
Scottish Government 2.0?
"Our current government is like a vending machine. We put in taxes and out comes roads, schools, police protection, schools and armies, health care and retirement. And when we don't get the services we want, or the prices are too high, all we can do is shake the...
Untitled
Posted via email from colingilchrist's posterous
What does the future hold?
Image creditsHaving attended a premier dinner organised by Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce the other night I had the good fortune to chat with the keynote speaker Simon Francis (CEO of Saatchi and Saatchi) - his presentation was based round their idea of "Lovemarks" - I...
Fancy a coffee?
Image = CentOtre, Friday 8:00amMy latest post for The Drum Marketing and Advertising magazine.
Michelle at Zappos #followfriday
I just want to make a personal recommendation for someone I met almost a year ago:Michelle Thomas, the Brand Marketing Manager for 6pm at Zappos.com.Michelle used to work at the MGM Mirage in Las Vegas and moved to Zappos in 2007 her role includes:* Improve...
Seminar feedback
I recently got some feedback from a conference for Edinburgh City Council where I was providing a presentation on using social media for Neighbourhood Partnerships - deep breath:Your workshop contributed to the day as it clearly gave people an idea about a concrete /...
The wonder of Podcasts
On a curiosity bender - that's the strapline to WNYC's Radio Lab.I've been a fan of the RadioLab podcast ever since Seth Godin recommended it a couple of months back - it's a real education and fascinating to listen to. A recent post looks at our way of thinking and...
Return On Investment, Social Media Marketing
Return on investment can be a hard financial measure.I embed a great presentation by Olivier Blanchard who clarifies elements more eloquently than I could.Olivier Blanchard Basics Of Social Media RoiView more presentations from Olivier Blanchard.
Social Media and traffic congestion
I don't know where this picture came from but it happened to be on my hard drive - an electric motorbike - yum...My latest submission to The Drum magazine
What do you do all day?
Image creditAre you a leader in your field, a starter who has just been made redundant or a sole trader with more work than you can cope with? Ever been asked what you do all day?My wife asked me - aside from thinking "cheeky bint" I thought I'll make a journal. Hell,...
Social Media Marketing 101
Social Media marketing care of Guy KawasakiMark Glaser of PBS got five social media and PR experts together to talk about the basics of social-media marketing on video. The experts are Cheryl Contee, Jeff Pester, Laura Pexton, Brian Solis, and Caleb Zigas. Interesting...
Build your business through serendipity
Chris Brogan explains:An interesting article on stats:http://www.umassd.edu/cmr/studiesresearch/blogstudy5.cfm
Starter for 6
I'm just back from an excellent evening at The Arches in Glasgow organised by Lynsey at the Starter for 6 programme along with colleague Gillian. I was sharing the stage with Debs and Gaylie at RM* (rm star) for an active discussion centred around networks, social...
Scotland needs a kick up the arse
In my opinion Scotland is falling behind in its adoption of using social media to better promote itself and the businesses within it.I'm still coming across businesses that don't know what a blog is and the difference it could make to their business both in sales and...
Use the tools you have
You maybe not appreciate that some of the tools you have might be just the answer you are looking for. We are in a tight economy, we're keen to recycle, reuse rather than further invest in new products to better facilitate that job you need doing.Where am I going with...
Facebook Saved My Business.
There's a great article in the New York Times about businesses that use Facebook to advertise; one story:"Some guys use Facebook to find single women. Chris Meyer used it to find women who are already engaged.Mr. Meyer, a wedding photographer in Woodbury, Minn., had...
Newspapers and Social Media
My latest offering to The Drum blogPoppy our office dog has been feeling left out recently, feel free to feel sorry for her!
I love #EdCM
The genius that is Mike Coulter produces:Edinburgh Coffee Morn Stop Frame from brandfeed on Vimeo.Link to it here: http://www.vimeo.com/7472098Link to Mike's blog: http://digitalagency.typepad.com/
Social Media: The Future
My latest submission for The Drum
Provide brilliance for equity, because we do!
Rant...What the hell is going on out there!In the past week we as an agency (Red Dress) have been asked to provide design, print, social media marketing strategy, web, interior design, video and music production - the whole nine yards - oh but guess what, you'll get...
A little bad = great; too much = exit…
I love podcasts, in particular I am a big fan of Radio Lab they say: "Radiolab believes your ears are a portal to another world. Where sound illuminates ideas, and the boundaries blur between science, philosophy, and human experience. Big questions are investigated,...
It’s not often…
It's not often that you get the word genius on the same line as accordian player - just to share this.Aside from having a softspot for great music, people that do anything with real passion are believable, impressive:
Bugger Bloggers
Latest post on The Drum magazine blog
Dental research
We have quite a big project going on at work at the moment, it has made me look at Dentistry in more detail and surprise, surprise start to question my own teeth health. Maybe to my detriment, I've just never been that vain or bothered about my teeth and their care....
Content is no longer King
We have all been told over the years that working online content is king, it’s what drives the traffic, gets our websites found, the very reason people get passionate about your products and brands. Has anyone else noticed the shift? The middle man holds the upper...
Revenge of the Dentist
Are Dentists about to go the way of opticians?Do you remember, it wasn't that long ago but there used to be loads of little independent opticians; 90% of them dropped off the face of the earth.Why?The multi store, the conglomerate, the superstore drop-in... the wee...
You’ve sent me an email, what are you selling?
My latest blog post for The Drum magazine:
Social media is the answer to life, the universe and everything
I have been tasked with contributing to the UK's Advertising and Marketing Magazine The Drum; first post can be seen here: The Drum
Rory Sutherland at TED
Can we have a standin ovation please!Rory provides "Life lessons from an Ad man."
How to be an instant overnight success!
Image creditsIt's real easy... honest.Having studied art and artists I always enjoy the arguement by the man on the street who says: "But that's a pile of lego, anyone could have done that!"Yes but you didn't, and guess what you haven't been working your butt off day...
What do you talk about?
Ever wondered what it is that you talk about most?One of my favourite web 2.0 tools is Wordle - put in your text and it emphasises the words that you use the most - simple.I dropped in the URL for this blog... so much for creative musings, I think I need to be a tad...
Advertising, the future for agencies
Traditional agencies are struggling to come to terms with the dramatic drop in TV ad revenues, Newspapers are in decline, we need entertained on our terms.No longer is it about pushing a message.Now it is about creating a conversation. It's about providing content...
What is the future for advertising? Is the way forward purely to embrace on-line advertising and social networking?
Image credits: http://www.gapingvoid.com (thanks Hugh)Scott Johnson (Owner and Creative Director of graphic design agency Liv Design Ltd) recently posted the bove question to a group on LinkedIn. It continues:In light of current figures showing the decline of TV and...
Latent advertising
Do you know what latent advertising is? It's how Facebook make a living.Example:You go to the supermarket with the express intention of buying milk and eggs - at the checkout you see some trebor mints and yorky bars, you quite fancy them and drop one of each onto the...
Red Dress Has a new poster!
Comments on a postcard (this blog will do...)!
It was emotional
One of the challenges in the creative business is making your client stand out from their competition. Ultimately what we are attempting to do is assign a strong emotion to the brand, product or service. The best way for your consumers to want your product is the...
Business networking sucks
My wife tells me that every time she phones the office I seem to be at another business networking meeting - a slight exaggeration but I do attend a fair amount. She asked the obvious question, "Do they work that well for you?"My response was simple: "No, business...
LRX Concept get the go ahead
Last week I was delighted to learn that Land Rover announced the production of their LRX Concpet car. It's one that I have secretly lusted after for over a year now. Land Rover have nearly always been in our family, it's not a fashion but a practical requirement,...
764% increase in website visits
I know I've talked a wee bit about our involvement (Red Dress) as an agency in social media - now we have documented proof that we increased website traffic for one of our clients by a staggering 764% in a 3 month period.What do we do, what do we use, how's it...
Facebook, a lesson in advertising from the CEO
Facebook, a lesson in advertising from their CEO Sherylhttp://www.ustream.tv/recorded/2208069
Music production, creative career?
Ok so I've produced one or two tunes in a past life, had tracks played by Tiesto and recommended by other players such as Lupe Fiasco. I might add it was niche, not mass market and done to see if I could... and for the love of it not as a business opportunity or...
Refer this, refer that… make a referral
I attended an entrepreneur black tie dinner last night with a few hundred other people at Prestonfield House Hotel in Edinburgh; it was in aid of the Princes Trust. The event was the brainchild of Winning Entrepreneurs Belinda Roberts and had speakers from the BBC's...
London Fashion Week – Christopher Kane
The time is nearly upon us, London Fashion Week runs from 18th - 22nd September. The bit that always interests me is the Fashion Forward element, was established three years ago to provide funding for talented emerging British designers; it's supported by the London...
Why social objects are the future of marketing
Hugh has put it more eloquently than I ever could: Gapingvoid
USP – Unique selling point
What is your unique selling point?Do you know how to find it?Are you and your competitor selling almost the same product range and you're toiling to think how you can stand out?Or maybe you think you have no competitors - "you are like, so not in my league...
Social Marketing Guru. No a Social Tailor!
Maybe you've heard me wax lyrical about my experiences using and working with social tools... (should that read applications, probably not), anyway I just wanted to mention that anyone who claims to be a Social Marketing Guru should be eyed with deep suspicion. There...
Labour Party Response
Always one for a balance view (ahem) I thought it only fair to post the Labour response to opposition ratings climbing.I have to say I'm impressed by this, and no I'm not a Labour Party supporter - the 'Raving Loonies' get my vote.
Conservatives, rejoice or spit?
I came across the following video looking for things related to Pitt Street (It's where the Red Dress studio lives); I'm unsure of the connection but thought it an interesting reflection on pride within the Conservative Party.I'm a firm believer in positive thinking;...
Success online
There are a number of ways to portray your company online; I have discovered over the years that if you are using a website to promote your company there are 3 key elements that have to be front and centre.1. What you love doing2. What you are really good at3. Where...
Recruitment a love hate thing
Ok so they've come in for some real stick over the past few years and now they want us to feel sorry for them because loads are losing jobs due to the current economic climate.If you are not in recruitment there are all these ways of finding potential candidates and...
Marketing basics – do they apply in an online social sphere?
Ok, so whether you are putting up posters for a lost cat, or providing a poster campaign for VisitScotland there is a basic requirement that each message requires to make it work: AIDAAttention: get the audience attentionInterest: keep them standing thereDemand: they...
Red Dress
It's happened - Red Dress has been fully switched on.Here was a merger that was inevitable; twinning with an agency that specialised in creative print and product development and looking to get wise with a digital partner - when I say digital I mean online for all you...
Interior design
Don't you just love it.Passion is an essential ingredient in the best and most successful products and people. Maybe it doesn't make sense, but does it need to?The inspiration was found here: http://www.johnnouanesing.fr/catalogue UK.html
News – the future?
I have been commenting for a while on the future of the newspaper - how far into the future have the BBC looked or those big publishing houses that rely on competitive news coverage? There is no doubt that newspapers are losing out, particularly the big all consuming...
Web 2.0; The Machine is Us/ing Us
Here is a fascinating take on internet, it's impact on the way we write and what the internet (Us) is learning. Thank you Ian Burgess for the note!Web 2.0 … The Machine is Us/ing Us
Creativity solves everything
If you are in any way connected to the advertising industry this is a must see: http://www.artandcopyfilm.com/Unfortunately for those of us in the UK it's release is in selected cinemas in the US only, from Friday... We need to persuade the distributor to have a...
Social Marketing – it’s winning, almost.
It's about time some of the big investors in marketing and advertising asked themselves the most effective way to communicate with their audience.Is it better to have a conversation than push something in my face? Damn right it is.But that has been the predominant way...
Psychometric testing
I know of a very successful company (based in the US) that will only interview you if you fill certain criteria in a psychometric test - your profile has to be inline with the company or you just simpy wont fit in...I have briefly met a couple of guys from...
Secret to Success
It's a simple question: What is the secret to success?Here Richard St. John describes in 3 minutes after 7 years of research and 500 interviews the equation that leads to success:What is missing from your folio of personal development? Now you know the answer, get on...
For you
I was asked by someone (who shall remain nameless to protect his innocence) why I do this blogging thing - here is a conversation by a couple of people that I respect who put it more succinctly than I ever could.
Feel It
I've come down to London this time not for work but to take the girls to some of my old stomping grounds and meet up with some friends. Saturday we ended up getting lashed at Hard Rock which was down to a sympathetic barman who was clearly crashing from having a big...
Good things will come to those who wait…
I disagree completely with the statement, "good things will come to those who wait"; in my opinion, good things will come to those who go out and make it happen for themselves. It was maybe 10 years ago I was in a job biding my time, existing, working to go out and...
Attention!
Getting or making an attention is a trial unless there is real confidence in your tone and attitude in your nature.I was watching some old reruns of Dragons Den the other day and there was this pair who had come up with an alternate to the traditional bell for the...
Tweetabits offers £150,000 of prizes to Twestival
Twestival dates have been confirmed as 10 - 13th September 2009. The last Twestival event was the biggest Twitter fund raising event in history raising over $250,000 for charity:water, a non-profit organisation bringing clean, safe drinking water to people in...
How to…
Network like a rockstar.You can not succeed without the help of other people. I came across an article recently - I forget who highlighted it to me - it was all about building your own profile online because ultimately the bigger your following the more credibility...
TechCrunch talks Tweetabits
Online PR is a difficult beast to tame at the best of times. I don't profess to be an expert in this area, I only know it's not something that you can immediately impact overnight. There has to be a sustained approach from lots of different angles using and abusing...
Image courtesy of "Newspaper Innovation"Brian Currie gave me permission to post a link to his article in The Herald today: "Governments ‘must safeguard future of Scots newspapers"My question to you is Yes or No?In my meagre opinion - NoI have argued on 38 Minutes...
Festivals
At the moment 'T in the Park' is in full swing and the 3rd day is about to kick off. Talor (my 16yr old daughter) is there with a huge group of her pals - my experience of it this year has been a phone call with some screaming and a Calvin Harris moment thrashed down...
Tweetabits
Ok so the game is afoot... we are now undertaking a soft launch of Tweetabits. So I'm afraid this blog will probably mention it rather a lot over the next few weeks and months.For those of you that don't know: it is a twitter tool for businesses. Example: You are an...
Plan’s coming together
Today I had some great meetings; one with Darcie at Channel 4ip and another with Sally at 'Common Turf' c/o Cultural Enterprise Office (CEO).With Sally it was a case of getting to grips with CEO and Common Turf; a better understanding that they work where Business...
Fair day
Ok, so it's fair to say - I had a fair day; and by that I mean I had a couple of great meetings with a fair outcome followed up by queueing in traffic behind a bunch of carnies on their way to set up a fair...It was good to see Stewart again at SMK Print; Stewart...
Hugh gets gushy…
I don't know what I did to deserve this but it's a social media goldmine. Recommendations and referals are what make you as a brand stand head and shoulders above the masses.I was getting flooded by twitter hook ups and couldn't work out why until I spotted this. Be a...
Innovators
I seem to be working or meeting with lots of innovators these days. A few days ago saw me at Hawke & Hunter again having lunch with a couple of guys who have succeeded in gaining funding (almost done deal whilst going to press) for a Scottish Social Network; their...
Amazing work at RUTS
Yesterday saw me visit one of our support projects... once a year Digital Face picks a charity and works with them to deliver a project free of charge. It usually takes the form of a website, graphic design, marketing strategy or just straight volunteering.This year...
The way to conduct business!
Yet again I seem to be on the move - although to be fair in some familiar hunting grounds.Yesterday morning saw me down at Rennie's Isle hooking up with my amazing Business Manager at the Bank of Scotland (or whatever you want to call it now) - she has long supported...
The Balloon Guy
Ok time for a bit of promotion for a friend... The balloon guy who gave my daughters' warehouse party the look and feel:I only mention this because I have been repeatedly asked about the stunning backdrops and the columns - it's a new business so he only has a holding...
Red Dress
"Were you listening to me Neo? Or were you looking at the woman in the red dress?"I damn sure I know where I was looking! This is the sort of impact Digital Face is creating with it's online social marketing. So much so that major change is ahead.Watch this space.
Design
I used to rave about the design of particular websites... am I getting long in the tooth, is it taking more for me to go WOW! Or because I view so many sites on a regular basis is it taking a lot for them to be able to make any sort of impact.Maybe I'm just turning...
Thriving & Traffic Congestion
This afternoon I made a mad dash up to The George Hotel to a networking event hosted by Annie at "Thrive for Business" - it's called 'Energy and Ethicals'. I can honestly say by the time I made it after fighting my way through the traffic I had neither energy nor was...
Where is he now?
It was pointed out to me today by Craig at SalesGap that I seem to be forever on the move and meeting some really interesting folk - with that spirit in mind I will attempt to keep this blog updated not just on my thoughts but on the people I meet and the places I go...
Creative Scotland 1st public meeting at the Lyceum
So the unveiling of Creative Scotland started in earnest in the public forum today. The gathering at the Lyceum Theatre in Edinburgh was part of an effort by the Scottish Government to boost confidence in Creative Scotland. Mike Russell MSP (SNP) led the charge and...
Delay gratification = Success throughout life
I live in a house dominated by strong women (wife / daughter) - they are both instant gratification seekers; when they want something they want it now, in 2 seconds is too late, they want it yesterday. Maybe you know people like this, it's not unique to girls but in...
Be a genius or filter out the Noise!
You may ask the question - if I'm not getting the result, am I doing it right?I guess that could be said of many things not least the building of an Ikea bed - ok maybe not a good example, how about Pepsi integrating Facebook and Twitter into their Pepsi Raw...
The merits of Twitter – an arguement ensues!
Two respected heavyweights from Scottish Advertising backgrounds discuss the merits of Twitter. Mike Coulter and Mark Gorman.Some of you are sick to the back teeth of hearing about 'Twitter' others are grasping it with both hands and are creating products and business...
Sir Ken Robinson – Creativity & Schools
http://www.sirkenrobinson.com/
Creativity in Education
My daughter recently turned 16; she has expressed an interest in Media Studies but is as yet undecided. We at Digital Face have long been frustrated by the general UK education system and its lack of importance assigned to creative studies throughout primary and...
Social media needs more guy #3’s
I was reading Seth Godin's blog earlier this evening and happened across one of his blogs relating to Tribes.Seth recently had a book published called Tribes, it's a great read - it looks at human behaviour, the role of the entrpreneur, early adopter, the need for...
Creative Scotland Meeting: 9:30 – 12:30 on Tuesday 23 June
Michael Russell, Minister for Culture, External Affairs and the Constitution,Ewan Brown, Chair of Creative Scotland, 2009 Ltd andRichard Holloway, Chair of the Joint Board of the Scottish Arts Council and Scottish Screenwould like to welcome members of the artistic...
Outted – Fashion boy
I've been outted.It's all true - I studied Fashion Design at Harrow College of Higher Education (or as it's now known University of Westminster) the same place that the Emanuel's - David & Elisabeth of Diana's wedding dress fame.I should say that I preceeded this with...
Radio Interview Recording – Leith FM
By popular demand - lose 12 minutes of your life listening to me witter on - on the Radio.Talking about Social Media and it's place in business.LEITH FM
Plato said…
If I recall it was Plato who said: "necessity is the mother of invention". DF, my creative and marketing company, has come up with the most amazing little tool that has turned all that online noise into a relevant stream of pertinent information that our clients can...
Are you ready to change the world?
One voice can make a difference - this is how Obama got more people to the voting stations.
Creativity a matter of opinion?
Is creativity a matter of opinion? We are all creative to some degree but good creative is bought, sold, shared, discussed, abused, copied, mimic'd and original. I have been a long time fan of Sigur Ros, they recently won an award for the video rendition of their...
Social Networking hints and tips (c/o Chris Brogan) – Laid Bare!
See the full article here: Chris Brogan * Be who you are, not an icon. People want the real public face of you (at least, the “best of” you). * Speak like a human. Try removing jargon and business-speak. No one says “next generation” in person. * Go where the people...
Sir Ken Robinson – Creativity – Develop Talents
I've been up to my neck in work recently not having the opportunity to stop and take a breath and it's due to this being pitch season.If you are in the creative industries you know where I'm coming from when I mention pitch season - budgets have been confirmed for the...
Bruce McCall, Language and Art
Bruce McCall is the artist in residence at the New Yorker Magazine. His use of language to better describe his period of experience is quite ingenious. See his TED presentation to learn more:
The Future… Did you know?
Think Big!
I've mentioned before - Mike Stevenson, Thinktastic and his design agency Design Links - here's a little insight into him as a person, the way he thinks and the passion and inspiration that he emanates: Think Big.Mike has been invited to speak at an event in...
Success!
Success!I learnt today that Les and Paul (Showershop 0r @showerguys) feel a huge debt of gratitude towards me due to attending one of my seminars. Les said "I feel we owe you so much!"The @showerguys are two lads that run a bathroom fitting business. Back in October...
Brainstorming & Creativity
I was going wax lyrical about brainstorming and how a great session really enlivens creative thought - I'm a day late...I'm a member of 38 Minutes, a forum in Scotland run by Channel 4ip and supported by Scottish Enterprise for those of us connected to media and...
Creativity – Food – Distractions
Ok, so here's the thing my mate Garry is a personal trainer, a muscle technician if you will who has qualifications in a new way of managing muscle. (Forgive my layman's view Garry) As I understand it, if you have a stretch or a strain Garry doesn't repair the...
Radio Interview
I have been asked to come into our local Radio station to share my knowledge of using social networking for business. Primed as ever the chat will introduce my background, using Twitter, Facebook and other social tools.Using social media for business does a number of...
Brand, Brand, Brand – get this right and the rest will follow
I don't know what it is but I seem to be attracting lots of professional Brand managers, strategists, business developers... and getting involved in promoting Brand workshops, discussing the Brand wheel...Now Dave our Creative Director at Digital Face knows brands and...
Company Culture – one copy to give away
A clear company culture should start with a list of core values - not ones that appear on a branded poster in your HR department but are an intrinsic way in which you operate as a company.A company I know (and am trying to know better) say it's about always looking...
Creative Scotland – Game On!
Culture Minister Michael Russell confirmed April 28th 2009 that Creative Scotland will launch Spring 2010 - the amalgamation of The Scottish Arts Council and Scottish Screen - it will be a modern body that provides funding that fulfils its creative objectives in...
A portal for Innovators
There are lots of forums for innovators out there; however the one I favour is sponsored by Channel 4ip (rethinking public service media) and was created by Ewan McIntosh (commissioning editor). The portal (38 minutes) was created with the goal to educate us:...
Guy Kawasaki – innovation for start ups
Guy Kawasaki was in town (Edinburgh) for a few days this week – Guy is a bit of a legend in the land of the geek – particularly of those in the Apple fan base.Guy was in town to be the keynote speaker at the University of Edinburgh’s Informatics Investor Showcase...
SME’s & CRM tools
Are you a small company managing your client information on an excel spreadsheet?Every now and then going back to it, updating and editing the contact information, nurturing it and saving it to multiple drives and discs to protect its content?Can I recommend that a...
Get your company on TV!
Ok so your company want to keep raising the profile without spending vast amounts of money what do you do = get it on TV!You've heard me talk about Zappos before, they don't believe they have succeeded until they've failed first, they like to bend and break rules, put...
Social Media selling product
"Marketing and PR and Branding don't sell product.These campaigns drive leads to people and places who sell product.If you are currently selling products successfully online - social media can make you better at it, if your consultant or staff understand how to...
ECM; Edinburgh Coffee Morning
Edinburgh Coffee Morning: from digitalagency on Vimeo.Attended by Social media users & abusers including: Advertising, TV, Film, Radio, Photography, Design, Food, Tech / IT / Software / Network... geeks of all shapes and sizes organised with the inimitable style...
Customer Service is an Investment in Marketing
It might be odd to hear, coming from someone that delivers marketing strategy but can I suggest you speak to your FD saying that an investment in great customer care is an investment in marketing.Consider a company I learnt from when I was in the States recently, they...
Long live free wifi with benefits
Here I sit broken hearted paid 2p and only...BT had issues with its broadband service to our offices / studio this afternoon. So do we all go home empty handed (those of us that have an essential need in access online) - well no.Heading to our friendly watering hole...
We Can Help Newspaper Circulation
I have a bee in my bonnet about the future of Newspapers after Rupert Murdochs comment about Google stealing copyright - he is clearly right to be nervous but not at the expense of Google - because the traffic it generates to his sites - he should be paying for not...
The Future of Advertising, APA, 17/02/09View more presentations from John v Willshire.
Clara Shih & Facebook
Clara Shih was just in London (yesterday) presenting to the "Facebook Garage" giving her insights into Facebook, the times that we live in, the impact it has had and the way we as a populous are changing because of this phenomena.Clara has published a book "The...
Zappos Part 3
PART 3I am still suffering badly from Jet Lag however I wanted to mention a couple of things after my departure from Zappos the other day. It stems from number one of the Zappos Core Values:"Deliver WOW through service"Anne who took me back to the Hotel after my visit...
Zappos visit – Part 2
PART TWOZappos Core Values:My evangelising about social media management and its direct impact on the Zappos business has opened up a whole new chapter of opportunity for Digital Face. Zappos put a large proportion of their success and marketing of the company and its...
Zappos visit
PART ONE.What a reception at Zappos:I'm not long back from my visit with the guys at Zappos.com. I have a few people to thank: Tony Hsieh for sending over the Culture book and the idea that a meeting would be good; Aaron Magness the PR, Marketing, Business...
Social Media Expert after 2 minutes…
Everyone seems to be a Social Media Expert... there can be no such thing; social media is changing all the time, those of us involved are learning new things every day.My credentials are only 4 years old, using and implementing social media for clients - we were...
Written by anon student at University of Edinburgh... couldn't have written it better myself!"MD of Digital Face, Social Media Evangelist and Presenter.As an enthusiast of innovation and concepts that open up and educate Gilchrist (http://colingilchrist.blogspot.com)...
Chris Brogan – exec blog
http://www.chrisbrogan.com/what-an-executive-blog-editor-needs-to-know/A little clarity for blogs!
The corporate blog
Today I have been tasked with converting some sceptics and hesitant enthusiasts into professional bloggers. I will attempt to show the benefits it not only brings to their company but them personally.As a company owner, MD or CEO my mantra in boardrooms has always...
West Lothian Courier
Fame at last... Thank you to some of the attendees of my presentation to Business Gateway in West Lothian; the event made page 7!http://twitpic.com/28p0q
Partnering for Innovation
I'm just back from a great event through in the new building "The Hub" at Pacific Quay through in Glasgow, it involved a number of bodies and was labelled "Partnering for Innovation Glasgow".It was aimed at Creative Industries and Digital Communications in the...
ECM / 103 George Street / CentOtre
Some of the ECM participants, the early risers - 32 attended.Andy Gilpin's first appearance, Tim & Hazel Hall, Jon Mountjoy, Bettina, Chris Welton...
Political approach
Ok so life just got a little interesting. I've been approached to potentially consult for a political party. "Social Media Management" is growing in publicity, the parties are picking up on the impact that Barak Obama's online campaign had with that audience...Don't...
Business Gateway Presentation Feedback
Thank you for the invitation and the positive feedback.My presentation was based around social tools small businesses can use to immediately impact their business.Employing people like Mike Coulter and myself to create a strategy that effectively makes us redundant in...
Business Gateway & EBusiness
Tomorrow I have the great fortune to be asked to present to 60 businesses (immediately after their lunch...) through in Livingston. Although daunting I hope to be able to impart the success of using online social tools to promote their businesses.The event is being...
Analogue Man in a Digital World
What do they say about food for the soul...We are doing loads of work with our great clients Qmorphic - and because they have a division that is a music video factory (Popmorphic) we get to hear some breaking bands.The favourite at DF HQ is a wee band called The...
Las Vegas & Zappos
Likely most of you will have learnt that I and the family are off to Vegas for a well earned break - well I thought no harm in killing two birds with one stone - I'm dropping in on a company (Zappos) that in 8 years have gone from zero turnover to $1 billion and...
Skittles – Twitter – Marketing
We always knew that Twitter was going to be a fruitful marketing exercise - however few of us saw a brand like Skittles get there first with a public face of search terms: http://www.skittles.com or for a little insight into the article that spread the story see here:...
Digital Face
Find more photos like this at Digital Face
Bizlinx – Sport Scotland
Networking... not online but face to face, it's a great thing when you get it right. I chair one networking group (temporary post) 'First for Business', it meets at 7:00am at a Hotel on the outskirts of Edinburgh with people like Anderson Strathern, RBS, Thomson...
CentOtre / ECM / Thank You’s
Edinburgh Coffee Morning hosted at CentOtre is a gathering of the good and great (and some attempts) of the tech, media, entrepreneur sorts who are able to get out of bed in preparation to listen to some laid back tunes whilst delighting in excellent coffee and nosh....
I have long been a fan of Seth Godin (he's recently brought out a new book - Tribes); his latest blog / article hits the nail fairly on the head when it comes to previous marketing techniques and how the market place and peoples perceptions have changed in such a...
Knowledge Management and Social Networks
I have just returned from a lecture at Napier University in Edinburgh where I was invited to speak to 4th year students - their module was Knowledge Management.I was asked by Dr Hazel Hall at the Computer School to discuss the practical benefits surrounding the...
Digital Face are more and more being offered the opportunity to work on some really very large scale projects; inevitably this has required a scale up in our technical ability and knowledge. Tradtionally evangelists in open source software has lead to us missing out...
What is it with age and time in the business...Recently I have met or been introduced to two people a week apart - one was in the FBI for 20 years, the other was in MI5 for 20 years.Fascinating people - Ed Gibson is the Head of Microsoft Security and worked for the...
Digital Dog
Radio Forth that Edinburgh Radio stalwart gave our Poppy a mention on Boogie's show this morning - yes she's a Dalmation, yes she's adored and getting quite a name for herself in the creative industry and yes she loves the attention.In response to their adoration of...
To witter or not – who’s the twit?
There are those that are of the opinion that Twitter is an all consuming waste of time and energy - others become obsessed and tell the world they are picking up the kids from school (or similar). Truly however it is a tool that can be extremely useful if you know how...
Corporate and Social Responsibility
My company Digital Face passionately believe in a responsible work ethic. Putting ourselves in the glare of our community and our stakeholders. With this in mind we are continually re-evaluating every aspect of our business to ensure our governance. Environmental...
Who is Colin Gilchrist?
Colin is the CEO, MD, Business Developer, Account Director, Buck Stopper, Whisky Drinker. From Edinburgh originally by way of Manchester (freshers week consisted of Madonnas first UK gig at the Hacienda... 1984) by way of London for a number of years and then home...