

A brand is only as great as the sum of its parts. It isn't just about having coveted, quality products, clever ad campaigns and good customer service. It's about reminding consumers that on the other end of that phone line, website, email or Twitter feed there are people, and that those people care about their customers. Brands often struggle with getting this balance just right. Marketers want to come off as "human" and spend a lot of time and energy reminding consumers that they're just like everyone else.
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Christmas comes but once a year, but the preparation period for marketers should last all year long. Here are five tips that will help you be prepared to reach customers and prospects at the times when they're most ready to make a purchase:
Marketing Manifesto
Managing the New Customer Relationship: Strategies to Engage the Social Customer and Build Lasting Value