Education and/or Experience
The following is required for an individual to be considered for a Manager position:

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college
• In-agency experience or related industry experience a plus
• The ability to organize and multi-task projects quickly and efficiently
• Attention for detail & good follow through capabilities
• Above average written and verbal communication skills
• The ability to work calmly and efficiently under pressure
• A “can-do” attitude

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Core duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Assist in the preparation of job folders, job tickets, round sheets for all projects
• Distribute job orders to PMO leads to develop estimates
• Assists with circulating job folders for team sign-off throughout the agency, Creative, Account, Web, Production.
• Submits completed project job folders to billing department and ensures proper documentation is submitted
• Filing project job folders
• Maintain agency sample files
• Assist and provide coverage for other PM department colleagues as needed – report updates, document revisions, system updates
• Pack, ship, and track UPS for department

To apply, please email your resume and salary history to: HR@SigmaGroup.com

Education and/or Experience
The following is required for an individual to be considered for a Manager position:

• At least 3 years work experience in client management for a marketing/advertising agency with responsibility for administration, strategic support and project execution
• BA in marketing, communications, journalism or related degree
• Demonstrated comfort level with Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint and search engines
• Understanding of social media inclusive of: facebook, twitter, flickr,  blogs, and Web 2.0
• Proven ability to operate in a fast-paced, deadline-oriented environment
• Ability to develop competitive marketing data reports and provide analysis
• Ability to develop industry trending marketing data reports and provide analysis
• Ability to work cross groups inclusive of: internal departments, clients, vendors, agency partners
• Strong team player attitude
• Proactive approach to problem identification and solving

Essential Duties and Responsibilities
Core duties and responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Seamlessly execute high-volume of projects while maintaining a clear head and executing correctly
• Develop and maintain effective working relationship with client counterparts; implement solutions and measure results with minimal supervision
• Understand the client’s business and become a source of knowledge for assigned brands; keep abreast of the competition
• Provide support during the development of creative, media, data and research strategies
• Maintain responsibility and accountability for meeting all client deadlines
• Provide support to build and advance messaging and media plans and their execution
• Under supervision and in the absence of creative and media personnel, present communication plans, creative concepts and media plans to client; when creative and media personnel are present, support team members in selling concepts and plans
• Identify potential new client projects and opportunities and determine next steps with assigned supervisor
• Represent the agency at industry and client functions; promote the agency at every opportunity and be familiar with agency credentials
• If applicable be responsible for day-to-day supervision of support staff
• Review and approve all job estimates prior to submission to client
• Ensure that invoices are paid
• Provide administrative support in the development, review and submission of monthly billing summary to client
• Demonstrate the ability to use core research tools (eMarketer, VMS, Competititrack, Radian 6, Second Wind) to access data
• Assist Supervisor in the preparation of PowerPoint presentations that effectively deliver the agency’s point of view, strategic insights and clear, concise ideas that build on client direction and input rather than regurgitating information previously provided
• Initiate collaborative conversation with key strategic touch points at the agency (creative, planning, media, new business) to uncover smart and fully-supported marketing programs to present to the client
• Develop well-written briefs that contain key insights and ideas rather than a verbatim data dump from the client.  Creative briefs should lead the team down a path of discovery, provide motivation and jump-start the creative ideation process
• Provide motivating, insightful and constructive comments and ideas with supporting rationale for creative direction and concepts.  Feedback should reflect an elevated knowledge of the product or service, goals and strategic direction.  Delivery should be inspiring and productive
• Possess knowledge of and continue educating oneself on the role of social media in marketing; make rational and educated suggestions for how social media can positively impact a client’s business
• Possess knowledge and understanding of digital marketing and emerging technologies

To apply, please email your resume and salary history to: HR@SigmaGroup.com

The Development Lead will be responsible managing the team through diverse site builds that include but are not limited to; CMS, Flash, Ecommerce, and Word Press

The Development Lead will report directly to the company President.

Requirements/Qualifications

• Minimum 5-8 years development experience, with agency experience a plus
• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year school or program or relevant experience
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Minimum 2-3 years experience managing, inspiring, mentoring, and motivating a team

I was in meeting recently, reviewing competitive intelligence for a very cluttered category.  Among the findings was the abundance of features the different competitors offered consumers.  And having pored through so many competitors with so many choices, I found myself in the shoes of their shopper, completely overwhelmed and uncertain which I would personally choose.

Immediately, I thought: “jam!”  Not as in “brain jammed by too many options,” but rather, strawberry, grape, and other flavors.  Specifically, a study I recalled that was conducted by a Columbia University professor, a California gourmet market, and a premium jam maker.

In the study, a sampling booth set up in a gourmet market enabled consumers to try different types of one brand of jam.  Every few hours the assortment was changed between a larger set of flavors and a smaller set: twenty-four different flavors, to just six.

On average, consumers tasted at least two kinds of jam, and everyone received a dollar off coupon to purchase.  But what ultimately drove sales stemmed from the number of choices the consumers were presented.  Sixty percent of the shoppers were drawn to the large assortment, while only 40 percent stopped by the small one. But when it came to actually making a purchase, all those choices actually paralyzed the consumers.  Thirty percent of the people who had sampled from the small assortment decided to buy jam, while only 3 percent of those consumers who had to choose from the two dozen different jams purchased a jar.

Similar studies have been done around chocolate, 401k plans, and speed dating, all with similar results.  A large assortment of choices may attract attention, but when it comes to actually making a choice and buying, it’s distracting.  Additional research also concluded that ultimately, when a consumer does make a choice from among many, he or she is more likely to feel less satisfied, less happy with the choice and even insecure, asking “did I make the right selection?”  In other words, walking away with a negative experience.

So often we see brands, clients and even agency people thinking that more is more.  Give them choices, give them options, and let them choose!  But in the end, providing a focused, more streamlined offering leads to “happiness” and ultimately, a sale – whether it’s features and functions, or product benefits, or even creative choices.

(Source:  New York Times, “Too Many Choices: A Problem That Can Paralyze,” Alina Tungend, February 26, 2010)

The Digital Production Artist is responsible for the creation, production and quality control of multiple web development projects.

Requirements/Qualifications

• Excellent knowledge of Adobe Photoshop, Fireworks, Dreamweaver, Illustrator
• Strong knowledge of Adobe Flash showing mastery of time-line animation as well as intermediate level ActionScript (AS2 and AS3) and implementation of Flash video is required
• Expert level knowledge of compression techniques for both graphical and video assets
• Excellent understanding of HTML and its possibilities and limitations as well as FTP protocol and web server architecture
• Strong information design/information architecture skills
• Knowledge of PHP, ASP, and any other server-side scripting languages are a plus
• Experience developing and maintaining web sites with Content Management Systems is a plus
• Motion graphics software skills, such as After Effects or Motion, are a plus

• Interactive production best practices and techniques, including standard and rich media banner ad production, HTML email and web site development
• A thorough grasp of web architecture, UI design, visual design, and project management fundamentals
• Extensive experience working with third party rich media vendors and their ad serving platforms, including Motif (DoubleClick), Eyeblaster, and PointRoll
• Familiarity with web design trends and advancements in information technology
• Understanding front-end development
• Familiar with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and XML

Copywriter (Digital)

The Copywriter will report to the Sr. Group Director of Creative Technology and is responsible for contributing brilliant content and copy while working with the Creative Technology team to develop amazing digital and social media experiences.

Requirements/Qualifications

The Copywriter must have the following:

• 3-6 years of copywriting experience with 1-3 being in the digital space
• Strong conceptual copywriting skills with proven experience
• Online portfolio
• Personal blog
• Agency experience is preferred

Skills

The Copywriter must exhibit the following:

• Some understanding of Search including optimization of content for SEM and keyword generation
• Ability to communicate and present copy to internal teams and clients

Areas of Knowledge

The Copywriter must have knowledge in/learn the following:

• Social media universe and have an understanding of the tools & trends.
• Digital and interactive advertising methods and traditions, including an understanding of the developmental space

Responsibilities/Tasks

The Copywriter is expected to:

• Write, edit, post, and proof content and copy
• Work with the team to conceptualize and develop digital/social media experiences that fulfill client goals and exceed expectations while maintaining a high level of excellence
• Develop compelling creative within interactive communications and platforms ranging from websites to online media and mobile, including anything from games and apps to enterprise level site-builds
• Actively seek out and help define new creative possibilities for client engagements, from rich media ad units and social media programs, to original video scripts and other online initiatives
• Assist in leading, developing and growing the copy/content team

Behavioral Characteristics

The Copywriter must demonstrate:

• Teamwork attitude
• The ability to work calmly and efficiently through tight deadlines in a fast paced environment
• Professional and productive behavior
• The ability to work well and collaborate with others

To apply, please email your resume, salary history, and portfolio link to: HR@SigmaGroup.com

The BRUT brand has represented a classic, American definition of masculinity for over 40 years, positioned in the market as “The Essence of Man.”

“(BRUT’s buyer has) been around.  He’s the kind of guy who sees fragrance as part of his daily grooming routine,” said Marc Broccoli, Marketing Director at Idelle Management Company.  “This campaign is basically almost a homage to him, and we tried to make it younger without walking away from the brand.”

Only two days out in the market, the BRUTslap campaign is quickly gaining traction with consumers.  The comedic execution utilizes a variety of social media and digital elements to celebrate the differences in everyone and being true to yourself.  To find out who is being BRUTslapped right now, visit the brutslap.com, facebook.com/brut and @BRUTworld.

For more details, below are links to the buzz around town for the BRUTslap campaign:

-  BRUT Slap-Happy For Younger Guys, Real Men, MediaPost

-  Slap-Happy Site Focus of BRUT Campaign, Response Magazine

- The BRUT — BRUTSlap Ad Campaign Launch Party, Examiner

-  Re-emerging Brands, Newsworthy Trends:

-  Twitter Buzz,  #BRUTslap

This is important because it gives us an uber-snapshot of today’s consumer profile. When faced with a must-spend occasion, we know what they’re thinking and doing.

Today’s consumer is:

1.  Showing optimism

-  Expected to spend $688.87 on the holidays this year, up a tiny bit from last year ($681.83), but nowhere near years past (e.g., 2007 = $755.13).

-  Translating that feel-good into looking good with jewelry!  Asking for jewelry has made a 10% jump up from last year—demonstrating a higher comfort level in discretionary spending.

2.  Armed with coupons and hunting for sales

-  54.1% of consumers will shop with sales, while 30.9% will go online to comparison shop.

-  Don’t overlook FSIs and retailer flyers, as 28.1% will have newspapers and circulars as their resources for best deals.

-  Social spaces (Facebook, Twitter) will also be used to find special offers, in-store event information, and promotions.

-  And clip, clip (or copy, paste)…40.6% of consumers will be using coupons.

3.  Going online to buy, buy, buy

-  According to eMarketer, eCommerce is expected to grow 13.7% this year as consumers seek shopping convenience, selection, and better deals on the Web.

4.  Expecting the best of everything

-  Although price ranks highest in most motivating purchasing factors, quality and customer service are two areas that have grown in consumers’ priorities over the past year.

5.  Giving gift cards

-  Consumers want convenience and flexibility with gift cards as the most requested gift item.  But true to tradition, clothing and books rank second and third.

6.  Using smart phones for smart shopping

-  26.8% of adults plan on using their phones to either research or make holiday purchases this season.

7.  Not being shy about “a gift for you…a gift for me…”

-  57.1% of consumers will take advantage of the season to make purchases for themselves.

-  On average, today’s consumers will spend $107.50 on themselves!  Happy holidays to ME!

So for brands that still have time to squeeze in a last-minute, extra holiday push, or even for brands that have already planned out 2010, what does all this mean?

It paints a picture of a consumer willing to spend a little more than in years past.  Indeed, wallets are opening.  But your shopper is expecting good offers.  Seeking impeccable customer service.  Looking for convenience—in product choices and in how they find these selections.  And shoppers are fulfilling a need to please themselves. With an ever-present “what’s in it for me,” to give them permission to indulge a little.  Also, don’t overlook the power of mobile.  This year is just the beginning of smart-phone-armed, app-using, barcode-scanning consumer purchase behavior.

It’s not too soon to make that list and check it twice.  A new year and a new budget will be here sooner than you think!

The UI/UX Designer reports to the Creative Director (Interactive) and is responsible for the conception, design, and execution of innovative visual and experiential solutions. The UI/UX will apply knowledge of user-centered design methods, human computer interaction, and industry best practices to drive useful and usable interface design solutions.

Requirements/Qualifications

The User Interface Designer must have the following:

• Minimum 3-6 years UI/UX design experience, with agency experience a plus
• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year design oriented school or program or relevant experience
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Strong online portfolio of produced interactive work is a must including site flow and wireframe examples
• A sense of humor, we work hard but have fun doing it!

Skills

The User Interface Designer must exhibit the following:

• World-class conceptual design, collaborative, and organizational skills
• Exceptional interaction design and comping abilities
• Ability to design and create clickable prototypes
• Detailed documentation skills
• Ability to manage a team of UI/UX Designers, Visual Designers, Animators and Production Artists while still doing hands-on work and juggling multiple projects
• Able to see creative projects through from concept to completion.
• Strong client-facing skills

Areas of Knowledge

The User Interface Designer must have knowledge in/learn the following:

• Advanced/Expert knowledge of Visio, Omnigraffle, Fireworks or other UI/Protyping tool
• Advanced knowledge of HTML, CSS, and front-end development technologies and techniques (JavaScript, PHP,XML
• Understanding of motion design and the strengths and limitations of Flash, Ajax, Flex, and other emerging platforms
• After Effects and Video production/technology a plus
• Social space and awareness of online trends, popular and digital culture

Responsibilities/Tasks

The User Interface Designer is expected to:

• Demonstrate a clear understanding and influence of marketing strategies and concepts as they relate to the product and be able to create design solutions around them
• Visualize, design and conceptualize a user experience, including information architecture, functional design and task modeling
• Create detailed documentation including site maps and flows, wireframes and functional and/or presentation specs.
• Assure all projects are completed with the highest level of aesthetics while maintaining maximized usability and functionality
• Manage multiple projects and deadlines and consistently deliver creative on target and on time
• Educate internal and external teams on design process, methods, concepts and interaction design directions
• Work closely with Copywriters, UI/UX Designers, Designers, Art/Creative Directors, Project Management and Developers as well as Traditional Creative Teams to execute on digital and cross-channel projects with excellence

Behavioral Characteristics

The User Interface Designer must demonstrate:

• A passion for the interactive space and a desire to execute world class creative
• Be self-motivated with a positive attitude and have strong communications skills
• The ability to adapt to change while still producing quality work
• The curiosity to remain knowledgeable, fresh and relevant in a constantly changing interactive environment

To apply please email your resume, salary history, and wireframes to HR@SigmaGroup.com

In August this year it hit the 1 million subscriber mark for its YouTube channel, with individual videos receiving view tallies well over 20 million each.

It made the current Bloomberg Business Week “Popularity Issue” as the Top Web Series. And it was recently discovered by my family during our annual beach vacation. Ugh! Why the ugh? It’s the Annoying Orange.

And it’s exactly that. Annoying Orange is the wisecracking, purposely irritating punster who stars in his own YouTube web series.

The videos feature a real orange with superimposed human eyes and lips.  The plot line for each video is simple: Annoying Orange meets his episode’s co-star(s): another fruit, vegetable, object, or even other YouTube “celebs.”  Annoying Orange tells jokes, laughs a lot, makes fun of and annoys the co-star, who ends up being eliminated, whether it’s by knife (the demise of most fruits and veggies), or by some other physical comedy.

Having had to listen to and/or watch the videos again and again during my vacation, and looking to make lemons out of lemonade (or orange juice out of oranges), the videos got me thinking about what’s making this series so amazingly popular, and what marketers can learn from it in attracting an audience.

It’s simple, basic, and consistently updated – Seriously, no big budgets here.  It’s just a talking orange with a little bit of editing magic and other household props.  The plot lines are mindless, easy for anyone of any age to get, and pure shtick.  And the videos are refreshed every Friday – a good reason to subscribe and/or return to the site.

It’s quick – The videos are less than three minutes each.  No attention span needed.  A great video “snack” for anyone surfing through YouTube. It’s appropriate for the channel – According to eMarketer, videos shot by consumers and uploaded to YouTube (i.e., user generated) are the most frequently watched type of online video.  (May 2010 stat)

It leverages partners – A few of the videos feature other YouTube “celebs” as the targets of Annoying Orange’s antics.  At the end, you can click and go to these stars’ specific YouTube channels.  It’s an interesting means of cross-selling these “brands” within the YouTube community.

It has lots of engagement opportunities – The Annoying Orange YouTube channel features, and each of the videos end with, lots and lots of engagement opportunities.  Calls to action include: follow on Twitter, Facebook, answer a question relevant to the video in the comments section, buy a shirt, download a ringtone, subscribe to the channel, or just click to watch another episode.  Annoying Orange truly is its own brand looking for ongoing loyalty.

Now, I’m not suggesting that marketers use third-grade boy level jokes, bodily function noises, nor any type of produce in their creative approaches in order to achieve success.  Rather, Annoying Orange is an interesting case in how to deliver content and sell a brand, without letting a consumer know that you’re really selling a brand.  It’s the right content, in the proper amount, delivered in the perfect channel, and given support, ongoing attention, and engagement opportunities that make it work.

Interesting to note that despite its popularity, very little has been written about the Annoying Orange.  CNN.com – one of the few press sites that has picked it up – said that the current Nabisco Cheez-Its “Mature Cheese” is probably the closest creative rip-off of the series.

Hey…hey reader.  Hey reader.  Orange you glad I shared these insights?  *rimshot*  Ugh.