Sometimes, it's not what people say about your business that matters but how they say it. And then how you react. Don't let the future pass you by.

Put simply, people buy the brands they want. Not the cheapest. Not the best. Not the most purpose-driven. And so on. Ask why, and the answer is different. Think Apple.

Too few CEOs recognize marketing as an investment: "Net revenues up 48%, client assets up 39%, earnings per share up 80% from a year ago." Good read from @KimWhitler.

To all marketers: bad ads do not persuade. Even if they are well-produced and are shown during every break in every football game.

Things get off track too often because we don't say "no" or ask "why" per @FastCoDesign and #MikeMonteiro.

In our commoditized world, marketing can be the difference-maker per @NirajDawar.

Scott Berinato: "storytelling with data is not about PowerPoint slides and numbers but about setup, conflict, and resolution" Something #SpikeLee does time and again.

We’ve all seen the stats. CMOs have a shorter shelf life than ever. And for most, it’s not for a lack of ability or intention. So with all of our marketing classes, MBAs and best-selling gurus with quotable quips of wisdom, how is it that marketing efforts so often miss the mark?

Qualitative research will tell you what people really think. Surveys will tell you what they want you to believe per @gkkenny. Choose wisely.

Want brand loyalty? @HarvardBiz says understand and act on wants and needs. A little harder than price rewards.