You’ve undoubtedly seen the "Dr. Z" TV commercials for Daimler-Chrysler, featuring company CEO Dr. Dieter Zetsche. Their research has told them they need to break from "The Big 2" – GM and Ford – by showcasing their differences – German engineering, association with Mercedes-Benz, etc.
So, instead of "just the facts" ads or cars perched on majestic mountaintops, they’ve gone the "Spokesperson" route with Zetsche. We’ve seen this work with radio before because there’s always that personal opportunity for a station PD to create that one-to-one communication with the audience. It requires a commitment to the campaign, and the willingness to solve listener problems.
Back in the day, I used to host an "Ask The PD" show on a quarterly basis, taking calls from listeners about the station, music, and anything else on their minds. Instead of being daunting, these exercises are fun, educational, and they make an impression on the audience. If you can’t adequately address listener questions and concerns, you’re in the wrong business. And in most cases, the calls always run toward the positive side.
Why does "Spokesperson" work? It’s personal, it’s relatable, and if the PD (CEO) has some talent, it can create an audience connection that is memorable, and even meaningful. In Zetsche’s case, he’s a bit of a character, has a unique look, and these spots have already driven 400,000 visitors to AskDrZ.com.
That may not solve Daimler-Chrysler’s problems any more than it can make a damaged radio station healthy again. But as our communications with the companies we deal with become less personal, "Spokesperson" is always a viable option for stations willing to commit to talking with its audience AND responding to their needs.
Jacobs Media has consistently walked the walk in the digital space, providing insights and guidance through its well-read national Techsurveys.
In 2008, jacapps was launched - a mobile apps company that has designed and built more than 1,300 apps for both the Apple and Android platforms. In 2013, the DASH Conference was created - a mashup of radio and automotive, designed to foster better understanding of the "connected car" and its impact.
Along with providing the creative and intellectual direction for the company, Fred consults many of Jacobs Media's commercial and public radio clients, in addition to media brands looking to thrive in the rapidly changing tech environment.
Fred was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018.
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