Mary Schmidt Marketing Troubleshooter

Yes, Yes, I know. I usually rant against scams and scammers. So many marketing ploys (such as Dawn’s commercials) are heartless plays to get to our wallets through our hearts.

That said, one “scam” that works for me – personally and as a marketer – is the National Wildlife Federation’s “Backyard Wildlife Habitat certification.” I read about it in a gardening magazine…thought hey, I could qualify!…and I’ve not made a donation to them lately. Now, I know that this certification is a way to raise money and I’m fine with that because:

1. They’re engaging me in the process with the simple multiple choice online certification program. (I’m participating and getting something for it, right then.)
2. They also give me a lot of information about how I can create and enhance such a habitat.
3. The money (certification fee and sign) goes directly to them.
4. I get a nifty sign I can post in my yard, which will be further incentive for me to: a. keep up the work; b. do more to help wildlife…and I look good to my friends (I’m not a complete saint.)
5. I’m helping make a difference directly and quickly – even if it’s just in my backyard. I can’t do much to save a polar bear right now, but I can help a hummingbird keep going.

Now, I’ve got to get back to the Federation’s web site and read more about how to build hummingbird feeders out of recycled materials (I’ve only got six in the yard now…)

Tags: advertising, Backyard Wildlife Habitat Certification National Wildlife Federation, emarketing, marketing troubleshooting