In Response To Tammy Chou

What type of media do you think is the most beneficial and effective? Do you think that one has a stronger strength than the other?

Tammy had talked about how she thought that social media was, if not the most, beneficial and effective form or marketing. The internet, with technological advances as well, as become part of the average person's everyday lifestyle. On a daily basis, people are constantly held in touch through various sources: cell phones, email, social media networks, etc. Its hard to not be prone to use a one of these methods to stay in contact with people. It also appears that this phenomenon is appearing to become a trend in younger generations. They are now relying on social media as well and there are numerous networks that they become a part of. It's truly remarkable on how much people have become to rely on social media, and technology to get by in day to day activities. This is very good for marketing because by using these social media network sites they are able to appeal to larger demographics. It could also be used as a consensus as to what their target demographic is interested in currently, and they could develop or enhance their products around this data. It appeals and works for all age groups.

Do you agree that social media networking can be beneficial for marketers?

To Sell Or Not To Sell

With the case of John Smith, provided by Professor Johnson, it focuses on Smith selling names of prospective car buyers from the marketing survey he had created. After reading through this case, I think that from a financial standpoint it was wise for him to sell the names because it would make him a profit of $8,000. Smith could use this money wisely as well, by putting it towards developing his business more and giving it to his employees through their paychecks. Although the selling of the names would cause Smith to have a financial gain I feel that this is not ethical in any way. When marketing anything it is important to comply with the American Marketing Association. On their website there is a section that is dedicated to explaining their ethical norms which should be followed. "Do no harm", "Foster trust in the marketing system", and "Embrace ethical values" are listed as the first three. The Association is based on providing customers with the honesty and respect that they deserve and that the marketing of these products is done ethically. However, if John Smith were to sell the names of prospective car buyers, without their consent, then he is performing unethically. If John Smith were to not gain the consent from these car buyers and sold them anyways, he would lose customers because of the loss of respect towards Smith and his company. It may be a good move in order to gain a profit, but there are other ways to do so. I feel that Smith needs to evaluate his actions and focus on his customers because it is ultimately them who determine if the business is going to be successful or not. If he were to sell the names, he would lose customers and that could result in him losing his entire business over time. He could even face legal issues.

Would you, if you were John Smith, sell the names of the prospective car buyers?