Two micro sites try going social. One succeeds.

SitOrSquat hits the sweet spot.

This new micro site from Charmin is a great example of understanding what a brand is and what it can be. Charmin could have taken the easy way out and settled for a cute “viral” concept like this using their bear characters. However, rather than putting meaningless emphasis on the bears, they took the opportunity to extend their comfy bottom position with a community building site that adds more depth to the brand experience and real value for their customers.

The Guy’s Manual misses the mark.

This micro site from Grape-Nuts cereal,while nicely designed, is going places they just shouldn’t. Since when does a breakfast food have the expertise to give me public speaking tips? Grape-Nuts is a cereal. That’s it. I eat it almost everyday. I just want it to taste good. Don’t need entertainment, or advice, just something to fill my growling stomach. Trying to attract a younger male audience is understandable but humorous videos and off-the-cuff advice don’t fit this brand. Natural, authentic, good for the body. Sorry, that’s who you are Grape-Nuts and you should be true to yourself.

(On a positive note: Grape-Nuts over Shredded Wheat with walnuts sprinkled on top is heaven in a bowl.)

What are you striving for?

It’s hard to commit wholeheartedly to a new idea, to stand up and say count me in, to put yourself out on the line and try with all your heart to make something great. Why is it hard? Because you might fail.

It’s easy to stand in the back of the room and poke fun, to point out all the reasons it won’t work, to laugh at the enthusiasm of those who are trying. Why is it easy? Because you can’t fail.

Mediocre is easy.

Exceptional is hard. Exceptional is what the world needs. Go for exceptional.

Steve James – Acoustic Blues Is Alive And Well

Steve James is serious about acoustic blues.

Thanks to Steve Theacker from WWUH, the University of Hartford’s public radio station, for introducing me to Steve James this morning on my drive in to work. When I first tuned in I thought I was listening to one of the old timers but to my surprise and joy it was a living, breathing acoustic blues master. Great chops matched with a great voice – what more could you want.

At his website you’ll find two free mp3s to hear him in action, and if you happen to play, there are handwritten tablatures for the same two songs. You can buy his brand new cd “Short Blue Stories”, too. I haven’t heard it yet but from the description and the mp3s I’m guessing it’s going to tickle my bluesy bone.