Ad Don'ts

Avoid these overused ideas that creative people think are original. Things like:

• NEW: Using everyday sounds to create a melody...clanking pans, opening jars, tapping on tables. Stop it, we've seen it. 
• Driving home a point by saying "Yup..." (think Toyota truck advertising)...a deep manly voice makes it a felony.
• Blair Witch Spinoffs...just stop it. Keep your flashlight only for true emergencies.
• Being the "Official Sponsor of ______...fun, men, partying, etc" but, not really sponsoring anything. There should be a government fine for doing that.
• Using a Tip #...this one is my biggest pet peeves. Tip # 32: Don't use tips.
• One script delivered by many people - cheap way to tell a message and represent all demos...boooo
• Claiming to be the definition of anything...that's the definition of weak sauce.
• "Got _____?" Even Milk stopped saying got milk, you stop it too.
• Recessionary spin-offs..."Stimulus Sale..." ugh, stop reminding me.

So, the next time a creative presents a "new" idea that sounds familiar, pull up this list and say...STOP IT. Tell them to take a cold shower, have a shot of tequilla and come up with something original.