When I meet with a client to discuss their challenges with communications, marketing, PR, and branding, I am looking for what gets them excited about their organization. As strange as it sounds, it may not be anything that clients actually verbalize directly during the meeting. They may not even realize what “it” is themselves. I am looking for what topic or area of service evokes a strong emotional response. What ignites passion? What sparks enthusiasm? What lights their fire? Defining “it” is critical to understanding the culture and brand of the organization.

Every individual in the organization has something that lights their fire to show up and perform each day. Some share the same “it”, others are unique. All the voices are important and there is no wrong or right. When you get down to it, you may just find that what lights the fire of your receptionist also drives the CEO. Is it the way your organization changes lives? Is it the value placed on relationships? Is it the desire to be on the cutting edge? Chances are (and should be, in my opinion) that what lights your fire is the very thing that drives your success. It’s what keeps your customers/clients/donors happy, excited, and coming back for more. It is what defines your culture and your brand experience.

From a creative and strategic standpoint, what collectively lights your organization’s fire should fuel the flame for your communications and marketing initiatives. That spark should carry through in all messages and imagery used to brand your organization. That’s where teaming with communications professionals who can bring a fresh perspective and understand this concept is important. Look for a group willing to spend the time to dig a little deeper to discover what gets you fired up and are capable of empowering your marketing team and staff to light the fire both inside and outside of the organization.

So c’mon baby, light that fire. Why? Because it’s time to set the world on fire.

Carol Sours
Vibe Communications

Like any startup, Vibe experienced our share of obstacles and challenges along the way. Some totally kicking our butt and some leaving us shouting “more!”  With excitement, Vibe is positioned to tackle our next course with passion, heart, intelligence and a drive to make a difference for our clients, resources, community partners, and friends and family. We took some time to dig deep and define who we are as an organization in order to build a foundation based on our unique value proposition.  As we grew nearer to the core, we were happy to find the defining word we built our brand – ENERGY – is still alive and well today.  We also discovered our true passion – PEOPLE.

We believe that people are the core foundation of every organization.  People are your most valuable asset, loudest voice, and biggest fan base of every company, non-profit, or team. People perform at their highest level when they are engaged and inspired within a positive culture.  Nurture your assets, empower them to use their voice, and grow your fan base.  If you haven’t noticed yet, your people are the helping hand that pulls you out of the mud pit.  We’re here to help you grasp that hand and lift your arms to the sky.

Vibe can help organizations at many levels of the communication process.  We coach and speak to individuals or teams about finding their passion, defining personal brands and creating and growing community connections.  We empower marketing teams with valuable resources and a tool box to develop strategic, compelling marketing and communication plans. We consult with upper-level management and administration on the value of using the inside voice of their organizations – BIG and LOUD.  We help define and ignite positive culture.  We continue to be brand advocates, message gurus, and lovers of design with impact and integrity.

As I embark on my 11^th year of business, I have to pinch myself that we’re so fortunate to still be in the race. Although, based on past experience we’ve revised the course somewhat.  We will be tackling obstacles from a different angle, digging deeper into the true meaning of the journey, saving our energy for the challenges where we really excel while strategically attacking the barriers that test us most.

I stand looking back at the course I just conquered – muddy, sore and catching my breath, but totally exhilarated.  I ask myself…

Did I win the race? No.
Did I come out unscathed?  Absolutely not!
Did it hurt at times? You know it!
Did I get dirty?  Totally!
Was I a contender?  You bet!
Would I do it again?  Hell yes! Where do I sign?

Lori Worth
President,
Vibe Communications