Show Your Quirk
I agree with my wife on most matters. I am firmly in the camp of believers who enthusiastically murmur, “Happy Wife, Happy Life.” After all, she is usually right — as I’ve learned from hard experience — and, really, she alone is most likely to be by my bedside in my old age.
Where things fall apart are my shoes. This is where I tend to show a little quirk.
I own a pair of pointy-toed Italian leather shoes. They look like cut-off cowboy boots and I dig ‘em. Today I got a pair of Clark Desert Boots from our pals at Zappos. The wife will likely hate them for their round squishiness as much as she despises the cockroach-killer business shoes.
But I think it’s cool to show a little quirk. I don’t wanna be like everybody else. I’m not exactly flying the freak flag; I just like to put a li’l top-spin on that last 10% as I walk out the door.
I think your BRAND ought to aspire to a little quirk, too. In this era more so than any other, taking small risks is most likely going to be rewarded.
Consider Plumbing Parts and Specialties Inc. of Sarasota, FL. This small plumbing supply house recently hosted its 2nd annual “Plumbers’ Olympics” at its warehouse. There was live music, free ribs and chicken, and vendors vying for the Golden Toilet Seat honors.
When the plumbers of Sarasota County need plumbing supplies, who do you think they’ll call on first? The safest choice, the cheapest choice, or the gang at Plumbing Parts and Specialties Inc. who decided to get a li’l crazy with them?
Who would you call?
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LOVE Clarks!
I’m more of a traditional black kind of dude. Perhaps my quirk lies elsewhere.
I’ve noticed more and more lately that being a bit “bold” or “quirky” as you say, really gets you places! Helps you to stand out!
Your argument is very strong and I agree with it, but still the sight of these shoes made me cringe.
Which points out to the other side of same argument: strong personality and quirks will get you attention, but the attention won’t always be positive. Just like with humor, it can backfire if people don’t like it or get it.
Not saying you will get strong reactions to those shoes… OK, maybe just from one person
Good point. And FWIW, that’s not an actual picture of the shoes. Mine are actually a bit uglier.
Todd, I absolutely love this post. One of my favorite personal mantras is “Be Memorable” and I think quirks can help us do just that. I definitely have more than my share of quirkiness in my personal brand.
I’m also fortunate enough to work for an agency where quirks and character are appreciated and even prized. Our president routinely pulls pranks on staff, including playing dead on Halloween (documented on the agency blog at http://www.fahlgrenmortine.com/?p=525). Not only is quirkiness good for personal branding, it’s good for morale.
Todd-Clark Desert Boots are a classic – tell your wife, those boots never have and never will go out of style. On the other hand, I’d like to see a pic of those pointy-toed Italian shoes. Those sound like a 90% statement on your feet
Interesting post! I agree with some fronts, but disagree with others…While a little quirk might initially stand out and is attention-getting, does quirk have the ability to creating a last impression and continued loyalty?
I’ll have to say that I think it all depends on the brand. As a consumer, do I want to pay the extra $ for the bells and whistles, or just the bare bones to get the job done? Sure it may get people talking, but will it be in a good way and get people to act and make the financial investment?
I think that while a scenario as the above-mentioned Plumbing Olympics is definitely interesting, plumbers will be more apt to go with the most bang for their buck…especially if they are smaller operations. However, if someone feels personally connected to the brand (rather than product), a little personality could go a long way (in either direction). As much as it might be a turn-on for some, it could be just as much of a turn-off for others.
I guess with all marketing and branding initiatives, it is all dependent on the audience and ultimate goal of the company (do I want to increase awareness, or bottom line spending)?
Todd:
Nice ideas and informative comments, as always. I notice the shoes people are wearing, and respect tasteful and intelligent pizazz because those people have usually taken the time to think when indulging in their “quirk”. Most of the time. Same goes for a company trying to earn my buck – I think I can tell when the quirkiness is backed by thoughtfulness and isn’t just bells and whistles. In that sense I’m getting more than I paid for.
Hi Todd,
I loved your post. I think it’s important to abide by most rules of business dress to project a professional image and indicate to others that you are a team player. That said, having a unique sense of personal style leaves people guessing. It also demonstrates that you are willing to take positive risks and you have the confidence to stand apart from the pack.
Strange that you should make reference to cowboy boots, something I frequently wear with suits. I find their weight and quality fit make me feel comfortable and walk with confidence.
Best,
Jess Bennett