Van Wyk Design

Wikipedia defines a weblog (or blog) as “a web-based publication consisting primarily of periodic articles (normally, but not always, in reverse chronological order).”

It seems that blogs are popping up everywhere! Bloggers are blogging their views on everything from Alien Visits to Monster Trucks to the behind-the-public-eye happenings of a big law firm.

Let me tell you about my favorite blogger: my Dad. OK, before we go any further, I must confess that Dad wouldn’t know a weblog from a Lincoln Log much less how to publish one. So, I’m fudging a bit on the “web-based” part of the definition. But, he is a prolific publisher, his articles are periodic, and I guess you would say they are in reverse chronological order.

For as long as I can remember, my father has routinely sent out “Wally’s Letter” to a growing list of friends and family. Dad’s journals speak of the latest events in the universe of Wally and Peggy Van Wyk—like the latest marriages, divorces, motorhome flat tires, three inch snowfalls in the Rio Grande Valley, family emergencies, trips to Colorado, and nice things discovered along the way.

I want to share with you three things about “Wally’s Letter” that make it a smash hit.
First of all, it is consistent. I have never tallied up how many times a year I get it, but he must have a little alarm clock inside that rings when it’s time to write another letter.

Second, his publication has an audience. His nationwide list consists of kids, grandkids, friends, golf buddies—you name it. He personalizes mine by hand-writing my name at the top and writing a short note with a “Love, Dad” at the bottom. By the way—he spot-checks his list too. If he sends a journal out, calls you, and you haven’t read yours, you’re in big trouble.

Last, “Wally’s Letters” contain a message from the heart. His style is conversational, spelling is sometimes questionable, and his grammar can be a little wacky (like father, like son). But these letters spring out of his soul. The things he speaks of have meaning. They are his daily life, and they are important.

Consistency, an audience, and a message from the heart. Sound familiar? They should, because they are essential components of our marketing message. I want to be in front of my audience on a consistent basis, proclaiming what I have to offer. And, most importantly, I want a message that reflects who I am. No pretense, no role-playing. Just me.

How about you?