Karl Rove, Radio Consultant

Former senior advisor and deputy chief of staff for President Bush Karl Rove lists five actions he feels Republicans must take if they are to beat Hillary Clinton in November.

Read the bullet points and see if you don’t agree that Karl’s recommendations are also relevant for our stations and circumstances.

1. Plan now to introduce yourself again right after winning the nomination. Rove cautions candidates not to assume everyone knows them or what they’ve done, and he encourages them to create a “narrative that explains your life and commitments.”
2. Stay authentic in terms of what you believe
   Highlight core convictions that help people understand who you are as a candidate, and that set up a natural contrast with Clinton “both on style and substance.” Authenticity is imperative.
3. Tackle issues families care about and Republicans too often shy away from.
   Understand voter concerns and be bold yet credible in how you will approach and address these issues.
4. Go after people who aren’t traditional Republicans
   Ask for everyone’s vote. Be seen as trying hard.
5. Be strong on Iraq
   Recast difficult questions about Iraq so that they encompass a broader picture of future leadership.
   

Authenticity, clearly conveying what you’re about and why you are different and special, understanding would-be constituents’ needs and wants and satisfying them, being accessible, visible and involved, and being perceived as a leader – these also sound like qualities of a successful radio station.

How Does Your Station Smell

Scientists (and retailers) know that smells, sounds -- even the color of the walls – make a difference when a customer is ready to buy.

Clothing stores for example that incorporate appropriately fun music, a pleasing physical environment and racks that are frequently replenished with the latest fashions sell more apparel at higher prices. Some might consider this nefarious but retailers say it’s just a way to provide consumers with an environment that makes them want to spend more time (and money) in their stores.

Consider the type of overall “in-store experience” your environment (music, staging, execution, talent and other basics) and merchandise racks (content of all types) are creating. If your station was a store, would your environment encourage or discourage shopping?