Every now and then you come across advice that is just so darn right that you have to share it with the world. So, that’s what I’m doing here. Kim Kadlec, the worldwide VP of marketing at Johnson & Johnson shared her views the other day at the OMMA Global conference. She talks about the need to “shift from reach and frequency to reach and relationships if we want to engage consumers. Marketers and agencies need to connect in different ways. It’s about bringing back ‘pitching the woo.’ We have to add charm.”

Her advice is really simple. It’s very reminiscent of what your grandmother might have said to you. Be honest. Be open and genuine. Don’t be afraid to apologize if you make a mistake. Listen, and choose your words very carefully. Be kind and be generous. In other words, brands have to be human if they are going to connect with people and be successful in this over-connected, social media age.

Her advice is just perfect. Read it for yourself.

Topics: agency, branding, connecting., engagement, Johnson & Johnson, Kim Kadlec, marketer, Marketing, Mediapost, OMMA, SmithGifford, social media marketing