Vodafone

I was quite surprised, and disappointed, to see this advert for Vodafone in The Sunday Times Business section yesterday (November 1st, 2009). It is disappointing as it is another example which could perpetuate the myth that marketing is just sales, but also very disappointing because it misses the point about what strategy is. Not only that, it must have been approved by someone within Vodafone who is connected to their Marketing function - what a missed opportunity from that person to promote their own profession. In reality they have done themselves and their profession down, whilst demonstrating a lack of strategic knowledge.

Having said all of that, it has to be appreciated that this is just an advert which is meant to be fairly light hearted, which I do understand. However, in terms of reputation I think it is a poor reflection on those involved in the creation and approval. And generally, Vodafone are pretty good at marketing in my view, so not sure what went wrong here.