When we launched our new brand identity last summer, we decided to make “Inspiring Conversations” our purpose statement. It’s a core part of who we are and what we seek to do. These days, having a conversation doesn’t necessarily look like two people sitting at a table over cups of coffee. Our socially distanced world means more of us (brands and people) are having our conversations via computer screens, in emails, over text messages, and on social media platforms. But although they are happening differently, the importance of having them is still the same. Dictionary.com defines a conversation as “an interchange of information or thoughts”—and it’s this interchange that makes all the difference. Conversations are a two-way street; it’s not about one party doing all the talking while the other only listens.
Yet, having authentic conversations can be a bit of a precarious balance for those brands who want to meet their customers’ needs while remaining true to their core values and character. It’s easy for a brand to chase customers, rather than stand on and share the attributes and beliefs that truly define and make the brand worthwhile to those who value the relational proposition. Yet, in our opinion, the best conversations are those that are open, honest, and leave you feeling refreshed. They are the ones where you feel like you’ve been heard and like you learned something along the way, too. Isn’t that how relationships are defined and developed? If you like what you hear and share common beliefs, pursuits, or interests, you advance the conversation. If not? Well, that’s okay too. Not every conversation serves to advance a relationship. Sometimes, conversations simply allow us to determine if we want to learn more. And there is a lot of value in that fundamental realization.
That’s why at The Jakes Group, we take the time to thoughtfully listen to the people we work with to inform the solutions we design. We believe every story is worth telling, and it’s our aim to help brands to best tell their stories. We won’t be the ones doing all of the talking in the room (or on the Zoom); instead, we prefer to have a genuine conversation to exchange ideas, ask questions, and consider our response.
This all may sound simple in theory. But more and more, we see that conversations can be one-sided. The loudest individual often gets the platform—or the person fervently posting in ALL CAPS takes the spotlight. To us, that’s not a conversation in spirit or substance. We think we can all benefit from taking pause, thoughtfully listening, and carefully responding. It’s our hope that the line “Inspiring Conversations” reminds us all to do just that. After all, words are a powerful—and beautiful—thing. And it’s our intention to use them wisely.
Feeling inspired to have a conversation? Let’s talk today.