6 Things Every Small Business Can Learn From Lady Gaga

Lady Gaga didn’t get famous by accident. No, she diligently studied “the art of being famous”. I gained a whole new respect for the brilliant marketer she is. Here are 6 things small businesses can learn from Lady Gaga.

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  Posted by John Robertson, Seattle, Washington | Mar 06, 2011

  When I was first introduced to her by my teenage daughter and her friends (I'm a single parent over 40 - not EXACTLY Lady GaGa's demographic), my first thought was similar to yours; "uh huh...and what is this chick doing that Madonna didn't do 20 years ago?" so I set aside my judgemental attitude and started simply listening and looking for myself.

  Today, though a lot of other modern music still doesn't make sense to me, I really have started to like Lady Gaga....her music , her persona AND her marketing genius.

  All of your points are valid and make an excellent marketing parable for how small businesses should go about it. If I may, I want to add one more parallel to small business marketing: keep it light and just have FUN with it. LGG has created a seemless blend of connection (like you pointed out) that is equal parts of poetry, musical skill, emotional angst and just plain fun. She really enjoys what she does and, though this sounds like a contradiction, she works hard to make it fun: both for herself and for the audience. Even her campy, over-the-top sexuality carries a tongue-in-cheek smirk that tells us she doesn't take herself TOO seriously.

  Thanks for the translation!

  John Robertson - Rent-a-Marketing-Manager
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 07, 2011

  John,

  I love your point! You are absolutely right, no matter what we do, we should make it fun - and imaginative! I wish I had thought of that when writing this.

  So many of the business owners I deal with think Marketing is a boring necessity of business, but rarely do they see how it can be an outlet that allows them to be creative and different - and express the personality and character of their business in a truly unique way.

  Thanks again for pointing that out and for taking the time to comment!

  -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Adrienne Fritze, Portland, Oregon | Mar 07, 2011

  I saw an interview several weeks back with Lady Gaga on 60 Minutes. I was never really interested in her as an entertainer but I was curious about her success, and how 60 Minutes framed their interview with her.

  Learning about her life and her focused attention on how she lives it was fascinating and quite thrilling. I too took away positive things for my business and my life, and appreciate your taking time to pull out these 6 energizing points.

  Be bold. Be brave. Be clear. And be in action. Success will follow.

  :D

  Smart, Compelling Storytelling 4 Brands and Business
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  Posted by Denise Loter-Koch, Portland, Oregon | Mar 07, 2011

  Very creative article Carolyn!

  ebs Associates
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  Posted by Susie Schwarz, Smithtown, New York | Mar 07, 2011

  Dear Carolyn,

  Never in a million years would I think of Lady Gaga as a business inspriation, but, you're right, she is! I especially think your points about taking risks and connecting with your audience are most valuable.

  With the voice over industry, actors have to take risks every day on the job as well as connect with their target audience. Some days it's easier than others, but day-in and day-out it is part of the job and being successful.

  And, I'm pretty sure most other business owners and industries are no different. It's keep up with all the changes--i.e. take risks and continuously connect with the target client, audience or consumer--or get left behind.

  Thanks for seeing another side of the Lady and sharing the insight...and even the music!

  Most sincerely, Susie Schwarz TalkonSusie talkonsusie@gmail.com
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  Posted by Donald Lachance, Quebec, Quebec Canada | Mar 07, 2011

  After I saw her at Grammies nite, I wonder how people can't take time to learn from Lady Gaga. I agree with you, Carolyn. She's a business woman with big drive and big projects. Everyone must take a look at this «LADY»!
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  Posted by Valerie Vozza, Seattle, Washington | Mar 07, 2011

  Thanks, Carolyn for the modern day parable! I too felt the way you did (she's a Madonna wanna-be) until I read an article about Lady in Vanity Fair. She is shrewd beyond her years. John, I resonate with your suggestion to keep it fun. That's huge for my business model. If I'm not having fun and connecting with my client on a personal level, then I'm miserable. Now if only I could find a way to make my marketing fun....
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 07, 2011

  Adrienne, I think we saw the same interview. It also got me thinking (hence the article! :-)) If she can do it- I think anyone can! - Some great lessons for small business owners everywhere!

  Thanks so much for taking the time to read it and post your comment! -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 07, 2011

  Denise,

  Thank you, I'm so glad you enjoyed it! -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 07, 2011

  Susie,

  I know, right!!! I never would have thought it either until I saw the 60 minutes interview. She really is an inspiration! I love that she took what some would view as a negative (being an awkward outcast) and turned it around - she owns it and uses it to connect to others. If only we as small business owners could have half her success finding our niche, our message - and our voice!!

  Thank you so much for your comment!

  -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 07, 2011

  Donald, Yup,, who knew, right? Thanks very much for taking the time to post your comment!

  -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 07, 2011

  Valerie,

  Marketing isn't fun??? lol. I know, a lot of my clients don't have my passion for it either. If there's anything I can do to help make it more fun for you, let me know! I strongly believe it CAN be fun when you find the approach that works for you!

  I like your observation, "she is shewd beyond her years." That's so true, she certainly doesn't come off as a 20-something year old, does she. It'll be interesting to see how far she takes this!

  Thanks for the post! -Carolyn Higgins

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Deborah Drake, Bellevue, Washington | Mar 08, 2011

  Hello,

  Hello.
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  Posted by David Berkey, Edmonds, Washington | Mar 08, 2011

  I can't help it. I like much of her music. It makes my feet tap. Like John, I'm not her demographic ... or so I thought. Frankly, by her keeping her music upbeat, she caters to a wide audience range. Yeah, her antics are mostly for those much younger, but she keeps it fun and entertaining.

  Interestingly, the marketing message is very much in sync with another part of my life at this time of year. That is ski instructing for Olympic Ski School, which operates out of Stevens Pass. I just finished my training director weekend, skiing and talking about knowing our market. Keeping things fun, changing it up sometimes, be inspirational and study your craft is all part of it.

  As a marketing service provider, I find marketing fun, especially in utilizing new innovations and technology. Branding, working with designers, technologists, printers and web developers are all part of how businesses get their word out. I get a kick out of new, innovative methods I come across. Unfortunately, many companies don't understand their market and are inefficient in getting the word out to their market base. Hence, they spend money inefficiently without truly knowing why or where their message is landing: deaf ears or interested parties.

  Carolyn, you're so right on about Lady Gaga understanding the gamut of marketing innovation. She's outrageous for the younger fans that love the antics, but keeps her music quite main stream: good, foot tapping beat, tonal range in the "pleasant zone", songs that flow with background that's complimentary. A little bubble gummy, but sophisticated enough to break out to a wider audience. She truly is someone to watch and learn from. I agree with John, in that it will be interesting to see how far she can take this. Thanks for your article.
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  Posted by Annastacia Tooke, Gastonia, North Carolina | Mar 08, 2011

  I loved this article when I read it this morning. I have only recently started examining Gaga and her whole persona, I find her a lot more appealing than Bieber. Her most recent song, 'Born This Way' is totally speaking to the disenfranchised and those who don't fit the 'norm'. I could see Dove using it for their Real Woman campaign. There is the adage in show business 'no news is bad' She is the most talked about musical artist of the 21st century so far. So you are very spot on with this article.
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 08, 2011

  David,

  You made so many good points about marketing and hit on something I see all the time- that most businesses don't take the time to understand their target market. They also don't take the time to study their industries, audiences, and competitors, which results in a ton of wasted time and money focussing on the wrong things.

  I also love the responses here from people outside of Lady Gaga's core market; It's pretty cool that she can appeal to such a diverse audience.

  Thanks so much for post!

  -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 08, 2011

  Annastacia,

  Yes, she has done a phenomenal job of creating "buzz". I would love to find a way to do that for my own business, wouldn't you?? It's not such an easy thing to do....

  Thanks for checking out the article and for your comment! -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Gary Silverstein, Olympia, Washington | Mar 08, 2011

  I didn't even want to watch her on 60 Minutes, but I finished watching her with awe and respect at her shrewdness, her insight, and the fact that she shows why wallflowers don't generally become great in business. She is proof of that, and no matter what, she can laugh all the way to the bank. Some people become famous just by being, well, infamous. She knows how to make something out of fame and make it into fortune. I thank her for showing us a way to get better, and I thank you for writing about it.
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 08, 2011

  Gary,

  You made some great observations. Like you, I watched her interview on 60 minutes almost reluctantly - and walked away glad that I had.

  Thanks for reading my article and for taking the time to post your thoughts!

  -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Lisa Bradley, CPC, Seattle, Washington | Mar 08, 2011

  Carolyn,

  Thank you for your article. The first time I saw Lady Gaga I knew she'd be big... she's got something, and is making something of her self through owning it. I'm going in search of the 60 Minutes next.

  I've heard Taylor Swift interviewed and am impressed with her business acumen too.

  Looking at both of them, as a coach who helps people connect with and know the value of what's great about them and share that through their business... both Taylor and Lady Gaga took what is unique about themselves versus trying to fit in or sell out. Even things that one might not think would be a plus. Like you shared, she uses her own experience of feeling like an outcast to connect with her audience.

  It is often when we embrace and shine the light on who we really are and the struggles and solutions we’ve gone through that create the greatest and most lasting success… it also takes the most courage and vulnerability… and has the greatest personal rewards.

  By the way, I gave you a 10! Thank You for sharing your insights. You Rock!! ;)

  Lisa

  Helping you make your difference!
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 09, 2011

  Lisa,

  Thank you so much for our comment, I love your insight!

  And much thanks for the "10" I truly appreciate the compliment!

  Have a wonderful day. -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Mary E. Rossow, Los Altos, California | Mar 10, 2011

  Carolyn,

  Your article is 'spot on'.

  Warm Gaga Socks, Rossow
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  Posted by Paul Kyriazi, San Francisco, California | Mar 10, 2011

  Great article Carylyn. My main success study is by reading show biz biographies. I know nothing about Lady Gaga, so it was informative to find out how she got so big. You distilled the facts well. Thank you.
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  Posted by Penny Zenker, Devon, Pennsylvania | Mar 10, 2011

  Hi Carolyn, Thanks for your article. It was very creative and a fun way to relate to business success factors.
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 10, 2011

  Mary, Paul, and Penny,

  Thank you very much for your compliments. I am so glad you liked the article and found it worthwhile!

  Have a very happy and fortunate day! -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Ted Schmidt, Vero Beach, Florida | Mar 10, 2011

  As a licensed talent agent (now turned insurance agent), I am reminded of an old saying in show business, which is also used in the stock market, and in PR in general. "It is not the steak, its the sizzle!" Regardless of Lady Gaga's music, she creates a scene every time she does something. I personally don't "get" her, which is probably generational, but apparently millions do. The ancillary saying to the one above is, "I don't care what they say about me, as long as they spell my name right!" which P.T. Barnum is credited as stating. Don't know if this holds true for Charlie Sheen.
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  Posted by Christy Brooker, Seattle, Washington | Mar 10, 2011

  Excellent! I've been hypnotized by Lady Gaga for months now. I can't get enough of her. I've been studding her with envy for her success and I'm so glad you narrowed it down to these key points. I started out with a very outrageous vision for my company but with time I've turned down the volume on the eccentricities. It started to work and I started getting attention and it scared me so I backed off. I think it's time to turn them back up and head in the direction I originally planned. With an idol like Lady Gaga there's no room for fear of success! Thanks for the inspiration!
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  Posted by Frank Flavin, Anchorage, Alaska | Mar 10, 2011

  When I first saw Lady Gaga I thought "Madonna" and why not. Madonna was the perfect role model for marketing success. I would guess Lady Gaga was pondering her future, saw some Madonna, and said I Can Do That and has. One does not have to reinvent the wheel. Look up to mentors and role models and hopefully some of it may rub off on you. Thanks Carolyn for your case in point success story. Frank
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  Posted by Sue Manning, St Paul, Minnesota | Mar 10, 2011

  Thanks for the thought provoking article Carolyn. I am a huge Lady Gaga fan even though I was with you in the Madonna era as well! She shocks and awes me which is the very essence of why I keep going back. Good marketing! You've got me thinking of new ways I might be able shock and awe my clients! Sue
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  Posted by Bobby Darnell, Suwanee, Georgia | Mar 10, 2011

  Great article! I won't waste your time repeating the same sentiments of others but will just say 'I agree'.

  I became a 'Gaga fan' when I found out she writes her own material and is an actual musician.

  I am working with three Nashville songwriters who have developed a 'corporate show' where the three sit and tell the story behind the song and then play the songs they have written that others made famous. (Alan Jackson, Kenny Chesney, Jimmy Buffett, etc.) I am definitely going to forward your article to them. Bobby
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  Posted by Heather Brincko, Seattle, Washington | Mar 10, 2011

  Thanks, Carolyn. These are really good points for any business, but especially for the artsy types out there. It's also good to remember that not everyone will like your work... or every piece of work you do. Stay the course, block out the noise, and be true to yourself/your brand.
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  Posted by Marc Gordon, Toronto, Ontario Canada | Mar 10, 2011

  I have always admired Lady Gaga's approach to marketing herself. And while I don't think her ideas are all that new, I respect her for knowing which ideas to take. To me, that is the true sign of talent in any industry.

  Great article.

  Professional Speaker and Marketing Expert
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  Posted by Diana Fletcher, Murrysville, Pennsylvania | Mar 10, 2011

  I love this article! Carolyn, you have no idea how perfect the timing was for me to read this. Great ideas, great points--thanks!
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  Posted by Kate Phillips, Seattle, Washington | Mar 10, 2011

  Great article, Carolyn! And great title, too... it was a "must stop and read" the moment I saw the headline.

  I DO think Lady Gaga is very similar in many ways to Madonna. Their "messages" are different, but their methods of getting in and remaining in the spotlight are extremely similar.

  Be different. Start a trend, then start another. (Remember Madonna's lace fingerless gloves, the "Like a Virgin"-era pointy-bra, the "Vogue" poses?) Reinvent yourself constantly. Be controversial. Wear next to nothing (remember Madonna's coffee table book?) Put out can't-look-away-from music videos. press-friendly and insatiable for attention (Remember the Madonna movie?) And do it all to a catchy melody and driving pop beat.

  And... although I never loved Madonna's music... I always thought she was a MARKETING GENIUS. Her talent didn't make her a household name, but her marketing brilliance did.

  No doubt, LGG is her own woman, but I think she's had a savvy role model in Madonna.

  Stop the Money Drama.
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  Posted by Kate Phillips, Seattle, Washington | Mar 10, 2011

  Oh yea, and who could forget the Brittany Spears kiss (and video)? Forgot one step - if you're not as hot in the public eye as you used to be, find someone hotter and kiss 'em!

  Stop the Money Drama.
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  Posted by Dave Weller, San Jose, California | Mar 10, 2011

  Wonderful article, Carolyn. Having fun has to be part of the effort, otherwise it's just work. A book I'd like to suggest for checking out is "The Levity Effect," by Gostick and Christopher. Joking around lightens our mood and is a good stress-reducer, which many of us need these days. I'm also not a fan of LGG, but will pay more attention.
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  Posted by Lisa Berendts, Seattle, Washington | Mar 10, 2011

  May I also add the word authenticity to that list.

  People are trained to look for "the catch" in business interactions. No one wants to deal with the typical used car salesman attitude...you know, the type that acts like you are the best friend and because you are so very special, he has a great deal JUST FOR YOU.

  No, people want and seek out those who are real, and if you do come across as real, you have a comfortable client who will remember you.
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  Posted by Tony Engelhart, Seattle, Washington | Mar 10, 2011

  Good article with some good points. I have a rock star mentality (I know I'm good and am not shy about it), but how can I convey this attitude via my website? How can I express my rock and roll personality in business since most of my business is done virtually?
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  Posted by Dennis Smith, Seattle, Washington | Mar 10, 2011

  I am a Lady Gaga fan ad have been from the start. I've liked her because of her catchy music and she dares to be different along with always reinvents herself. But that's always something that I admired about Madonna. Heck my mom who is in her late 60's listens to Lady Gaga and Pink. Both strong women who have it going on! I like the last part about changing it up because many businesses grow tried because they forget that last point.

  Thanks for a great article!
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  Posted by Eric Basir, Evanston, Illinois | Mar 10, 2011

  Whatever you do, be yourself.
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  Posted by Berry Zimmerman, Bellevue, Washington | Mar 11, 2011

  Rah, rah, ah, ah, ah, Roma, roma, ma, Gaga, ooh, la, la!

  Thanks for touching our lives with a new way to smile about marketing our businesses.

  How will you "Gaga" your business today?

  Connecting business executives with business experts
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  Posted by Leanne Peard, Cairns, Queensland Australia | Mar 11, 2011

  Hi Carolyn, I love your blog. I too grew up Madonna. I have just spent the weekend at the Unleash the Power within seminar with Tony Robbins, and he too is where he is today, because of the time and effort he put into his life in become the best he can be. Being able to Emerse ourselves in the learnings of others that have made it is essential for any part of our lives: wealth, love, spiritual or just to grow... I am a business coach and I also have my own coach that has achieved all that i have wished for..

  Well done on such an excellent blog... :)
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  Posted by Lauren Kayda, LMP, Seattle, Washington | Mar 11, 2011

  Thanks for the great article! Ever since I became aware of Lady Gaga I've admired her musical and marketing genius. I never thought about how what she does could apply to my own business, though. Thank you for pointing that out for us!
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  Posted by Julia Sarver, Portland, Oregon | Mar 11, 2011

  Thanks for this article. I think part of what is so attractive about Lady Gaga is that she feels authentic. Although she's definitely putting on a show, it feels like the show is her true personality. I've found in my business that authenticity is so important! So many of my clients are drawn to me because of my energy and style, and I've learned that the more authentic I am in my marketing, the better the response is. Kudos to Lady Gaga for figuring that out, too!
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 11, 2011

  Hi-

  Thank you all very much for your comments. There are some excellent points and great insight here! I really appreciate you taking the time to read the article, post your thoughts - and of course the nice things you've said! I'm glad you found it a worthwhile read!

  Diana - It sounds like some big things/changes are happening for you and this may have been something to help get your wheels going. I wish you the best of luck!

  Dave Weller - I will certainly check out the "Levity Effect", thanks for the recommendation!

  Marc Gordon - love your thought... it is really difficult to come up with something brand new. A huge part of marketing anything is learning how to package/repackage what's already out there. And you're right, making that work is a sign of genius in any industry. Thanks for pointing that out.

  I am so happy to hear that it touched so many people! I know I am looking at my business through fresh eyes and trying to "GaGa" my business, as Berry put it - and that is not so easy to do!

  Tony - there are definitley ways to express your "Rock and Roll" personality virtually; blogs are a great way to express yourself, as well as your website, and videos. My advice would be to just take a chance and let your personality shine through in all that you communicate to the world!

  Thanks again, have fun and good luck Wowing your fans! -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Jenny Seed, Malaga Spain | Mar 11, 2011

  A brilliant article with plenty of food for thought. I shall be inspired by the hard work and strategic thinking of one of today's pop icons. Thanks! Jenny
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  Posted by Georgina Capristo-Gajdosik, North Haven, Connecticut | Mar 11, 2011

  This is a great article. I coudn't agree more. However, I would like to point out that this assumes the obvious, THAT THE PRODUCT (in this case, THE SONGS) are not only great, but substantial and plentiful (in this case, the songwriter is PROLIFIC.) Lady Gaga has what amounts to less than two albums worth of material. In this case, I believe the biz attributes become a gimmick and will fade over time, when the shock and dazzle becomes old (in this case, right now as far as I am concerned.) After all, if she is not selling songs, her bread and butter, she's not achieving her ultimate goal. I know, I know, there are concerts and t-shirts etc etc. But again, the songs are the product and need to move the consumer. Just my two cents!
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  Posted by Sharon Farrell, Seattle, Washington | Mar 11, 2011

  Carolyn, Thanks so much for this wonderful article. I was trying to explain this to my family a few weeks ago after seeing her perform on the Grammy's. I haven't seen her interview on 60 Minutes yet, but you can bet I'll be sharing that my family and friends.
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 13, 2011

  Jenny - good luck with your newfound inspiration! Thanks very much for your kind words.

  Georgina - It may come down to what separates the one-hit-wonders from the ones that stick around and become legend (Madonna, Cher, Ozzy). I guess time will tell! Thanks for taking the time to comment!

  Sharon - Thank you very much for your complement. I have a feeling you'll really enjoy the 60 minutes interview. Have fun sharing it! :-)

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Mélanie Hope, Las Vegas, Nevada | Mar 14, 2011

  Well-written, well-said and timely. I was not a fan of Madonna the first time around, but I appreciated her marketing skills. Gaga has taken it to a whole new level, actually has a message and her songs are definitely catchier.
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  Posted by Rory G. Harrison, Ottawa, Ontario Canada | Mar 15, 2011

  Hi Carolyn, your article is my first to comment on, as it really drove home about the need to get noticed out there whether you have a small startup business or keeping an existing business operating in the black. Lady Gaga I can relate to now... She was not a fan of mine in the beginning but has gained all my respect. Especially that recent event a few weeks ago, inviting that little girl that sang her new song on YouTube, which brought out Lady Gaga's true nature of inviting her on stage in Canada here at her Toronto performance, which now has made her basically, a world sensation. That's all it took as Lady Gaga recognized this little girl's true talent & potential and SHE GOT NOTICED. Great article, great timing Carolyn... Let’s not all forget about the good things in life...LIVE.LOVE.LAUGH.PLAY. Thanks, Rory.
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 15, 2011

  Melanie- We've come such a long way since "Like a Virgin" haven't we..?? So funny how things evolve - especially in the entertainment world! Thanks for your comment!

  Rory - Loved your comment. I didn't know about the little girl that LGG helped make famous. That's so awesome! I love hearing stories of people behaving well and doing nice things for others. Thanks so much for sharing it - and for the nice comments about the article. I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

  Best, Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Jenni Parker Brown, Benac, ariege France | Mar 20, 2011

  Thanks for the reminder Carolyn. Not everyone needs to get outrageous to be successful but if it works, then 'outrageous' is just a judgement anyway! Certainly in the great internet fog, it has never been more vital to be unique and have a powerful presence. Personally, I would like to kick up a little stardust myself....ooops! Here I go..
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  Posted by Rick Clemons, Riverside, California | Mar 21, 2011

  Thanks Carolyn for the article. I was sitting here trying to decide what to write about on my numerous blogs and this gave me the break to re-energize.

  What I love about Lady Gaga is she just is who she is. Some call it outrageous, over the top, a spectacle, and a deprived child seeking attention. As @Jenni so eloquently said, it's all judgments anyway.

  I say, let's all find our own way to be (enter the adjective) and if it makes us successful, without intentionally hurting anyway, does some good in the world, and helps bring a little more harmony then...well I guess we've succeeded.
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  Posted by Mary E. Rossow, Los Altos, California | Mar 22, 2011

  Touché !
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  Posted by Randal DeHart, PMP, QPA, Lynnwood, Washington | Mar 22, 2011

  Carolyn,

  You have given me a new insight into the world of performers regarding their business savvy.

  You wrote a very interesting article and one that I may have to refer to later.

  Warm Regards,

  Randal

  Contractors Accounting And Bookkeeping Service
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 22, 2011

  Jenni and Rick - Thank you for your comments - yes it is all "judgements" - judgements of our target audiences and I only dream of knowing my target audience the way she (and other successful brands) do. Imagine if we could connect with our audiences and give them exactly what they want and need from us consistently - what that would do for our businesses... It's what we're all seeking and striving for, isn't it? Jenni - Good luck kicking up that stardust - (loved that!).

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 22, 2011

  Mary - thanks! :-)

  Randal - thank you for connecting and for the vote, I really appreciate it. I'm so glad you got value out of the article and felt it was worth your while to read - and perhaps read again!

  -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Orene Kearn, Burlingame, California | Mar 24, 2011

  Thank you for the very interesting analysis, which I wouldn't have thought of on my own. Your points are great. There is one more thing, however, that Lady Gaga is that should be mentioned. She is PERSISTENT. Everything I have read shows that she never gave up even when things were not going her way.
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Mar 25, 2011

  Orene,

  Excellent point - persistence is a huge variable in anyone's success - and she certainly has persisted. Thank you for the comment- and taking the time to read the article!

  -Carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company
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  Posted by Mary E. Rossow, Los Altos, California | Mar 28, 2011

  Carolyn,

  Sandy Stelter is singing your praises... indeed, it's a SMALL world.

  She & I have presented at our Professional Organizer Conferences many times together. You are both lucky to share a podium with each other.

  She is an amazing human being and business owner. Now I'm looking forward to meeting you in person.

  Warm Connected Socks, Rossow
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  Posted by Michael G, Tirupur, Tamil Nadu India | Mar 29, 2011

  Thanks for your education!
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  Posted by Carolyn Higgins, Fairfield, California | Jun 06, 2011

  Mary,

  yes, I know Sandy well and in fact, just published one of her articles on my blog as a guest blogger! Thank you for reaching out and for the kind words! - Carolyn

  Michael, you are very welcome, I'm glad you enjoyed the article! - carolyn

  Carolyn Higgins, President of Fortune Marketing Company