After a little research, I discovered quite a few interesting things about how advertising works. The Nielsen ratings are a classic example of how marketing techniques are applied. In United States, Nielsen Media Research provides audience estimates for all national program sources. For example, during 'Sweeps' week, Nielsen Media Research mails out diaries to certain households across country. The diaries are collected and processed at end of each time period. In addition, Nielsen provides many other data services to display viewing records of television, cable and other multimedia programming. These viewing data reflect what, when and how often programs are watched. So, in essence, commercial advertising agencies depend on Nielsen ratings on what commercials to air, and how to design commercials to be 'eye candy' to masses.

The Coca-Cola company made a powerful move in its Christmas advertising campaign by integrating Santa Claus in their marketing plans. So powerful, in fact, that because of its commercials depicting Santa drinking Coca-Cola from a bottle, spawned consumers to take more and more bottles of Coca-Cola home with them!

In an even more elaborate move, Toyota Motor Sales recently cornered online market with being only car Ad to sponsor Ebay!

During 1980s, Ms. Clara Peller was recruited to commercialize Wendy's "Where's Beef?" Slogan in televisions ads everywhere.

But what does this have to do with marketing essentials? Technically, viewing and listening public - whether it be Radio, Cable TV, or Internet - are diverse information and entertainment seekers. As consumers, we want a broad selection, we demand diversity, we expect 'eye candy.' Thus, while most advertising agencies can only produce and eccentuate positive of products and/or services, it all boils down to viewer-ability.

Clients demand results - and they want them to reflect their choice in advertising. As both a consumer and marketing specialist, a skilled advertising firm is able to fully comprehend fundamentals of developing successful strategies in commercial promotion of products and services.

So how does a good advertising firm produce positive results in a productive marketing campaign? Below are a few, finer points in proven 'viewer-ability' marketing strategies:

1. Research & Development - analysis of current marketing and advertising campaigns 2. Strategic Planning and Implementation 3. Media Buys - buying media at discounted rates and pass savings onto clients 4. Copywriting Services 5. Video Production - Informational and Corporate 6. Public Relations 7. Website Development and Promotion 8. Direct Mail/Email Campaigns 9. Electronic/Print Advertising 10. Brochure & Graphic Design 11. Telemarketing Consultation 12. Market Research

The prime question one should ask himself (or his organization) is 'What do I want to accomplish?' Experienced ad agencies will review and analyze what is and isn't working through review of revenue streams and competition. Specific recommendations are then made on how to target particular audiences - much like that of Nielsen Media Research.

While sometimes you'll have dozens of content ideas, other times you'll find yourself staring at a blank computer screen, grumbling that it’s publishing time again. Well, have no fear! Here are 11 quick (and good) content ideas for when you’re in a pinch.

1. Give real-life examples. Describe a problem you’ve solved for a client/customer, and use that as a springboard to offer more general advice. Show your readers how you’ve helped customers address challenges — “case studies” if you will. This positions you as expert in your readers” minds more than your coming out and saying so.

2. Think of three areas in which you’d like your clients to think of you as a resource. Now develop content in those areas. For example, as a professional copywriter, I really enjoy working on Web sites. To help encourage my clients and prospects to hire me for these projects, I published several articles on how to write Web copy that sells.

3. Read industry publications for ideas. Are there any hot issues in your field right now? The more controversial, better. Don’t be afraid to offer your own opinion — your readers want to know it. After all, YOU are expert! ; )

4. Jot down 8 questions your clients have asked you in past. You know, ones they ask you over and over. Answer each in a short article. If you publish weekly, that’s two months' worth of content, right off bat! And if you can’t think of any questions, send all your current clients/customers a quick e-mail, asking them what topics they’re most interested in learning more about.

5. Learn anything neat lately from an industry conference, workshop, seminar, or insightful article? No one says you have to reinvent wheel of information! Pass on any gems of advice you’ve learned elsewhere — just give them full attribution. Or give your opinion of event or article itself — your readers will appreciate your frankness.