Brand Champion of the Day- Edwin McClure, Communication Strategist, VCU Brandcenter

 

Last week I was contacted by Virginia Commonwealth University Brandcenter graduate student, Edwin McClure. Ed said he found me by doing a Google search for brand experts in the area that he is working on for his final thesis project. Ed asked if he could interview me for his project. Of course I said yes, especially since he considers me an expert!

This past Friday Ed and I had a very engaging conversation about brands and the ways that brands build trust, or don't. We agreed that it is fairly simple. Understand your core values, communicate your core values and then deliver your core values. In other words, a three step program that only a few organizations like Red Bull and Southwest Airlines follow. Hmmm, I wonder why those companies are successful?

As you probably know, VCU has a strong reputation. To me their brand has always stood for innovation and forward-thinking. That was recently demonstrated when they changed their one of their central academic ares from the Adcenter to the Brandcenter. Very nice! My experience with Ed last week enhanced my association with VCU.

Ed mentioned that brand was not on his radar screen when he entered the program, but he is getting more into it. After my conversation with Ed, I am now a brand champion of his and I hope he continues of the path of becoming a brand strategist. We need people like him in our field. Ed, for your efforts and your bright future, you are the Brand Champion of the Day!

Comments

[Joey Camire]

Haha, Ed you are a star. I told Ed I wouldn't be outdone so I needed to get on your radar (mostly joking).

Thanks for the great representation and strong words about our program. It's always nice to get good PR, especially now when we are going to be looking for jobs come May. I guess what I'm saying, Max, is that I am now a brand champion of yours.

Best.

[Rex]

Joey,

Thanks for your kind words. You have a great program and I have no doubt that you will be well suited for the next steps in your career. Best of luck!