WMU News

Expert debunks myths of marketing at WBDC workshop

July 20, 1999

KALAMAZOO -- When it comes to public relations, it doesn't matter what they say about you, just as long as they spell your name right. Marketing myth or fact?

This answer is myth, and veteran marketer Carol Fricke will discuss this and other common myths about marketing at a Thursday, Aug. 5, workshop presented by Western Michigan University's Women's Business Development Center.

Fricke will also address ways to avoid making common marketing mistakes in her program, "De-mystifying Marketing: The Truth Behind the Cliches," at 6:30 p.m. at the Kalamazoo YWCA, 353 E. Michigan.

Among the myths Fricke will address are the ideas that: when advertising, if you have nothing to say, sing it; that cable television is a good buy because it's so cheap; and, when it comes to media planning, your salesperson is your friend. Fricke will counter those ideas by discussing how to define target audiences, properly use media venues and determine the most efficient way to reach target markets on an affordable budget.

Fricke has local, regional, national and international experience in marketing, account and project management, media planning, and pubic relations. She is the owner of LKF Marketing Inc. and directs the company's account service and media functions. She often speaks to groups on marketing issues, customer service and diversity.

Co-sponsored by the YWCA and the Haworth College of Business, the program is part of a series of workshops offered by the Women's Business Development Center on the first Thursday of each month. It is free and open to the public.

The Women's Business Development Center was established by the Haworth College of Business to offer support to women business owners, potential owners and professionals through training, group and individual problem-solving consultation, current business information, and networking opportunities.

For more information, contact WBDC Director Pat Guenther, who also is the assistant director of WESTOPS, the University's Office of Public Service. She can be reached by phone at 616 387-2714 or by email at <patricia.guenther@wmich.edu>.

Media contact: Marie Lee, 616 387-8400, marie.lee@wmich.edu


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