If you haven't seen the new Microsoft ad staring Jerry Seinfeld and Bill Gates, here it is. I think if you were Microsoft and were trying to become more personal and less corporate, this is a good step in that direction.
So, what are your thoughts? Is this a better move to take on Apple and HP head-to-head? Is this too offbeat for you? Does it connect you more with the brand or do you feel the same? Vote below.
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advertising, Matt Dickman, Microsoft, Techno//Marketer, Jerry Seinfeld, Bill Gates
meh . this ad does nothing IMO . It smacks of desparation.
Posted by: Giovanni Ghignone | Friday, September 05, 2008 at 06:44 AM
In an attempt to sway those of us who grew up in the 80s away from the Mac, Jerry Seinfeld is a nice touch. But as big a Seinfeld lover as I am, Microsoft still can't change my mind.
Posted by: Ashley | Friday, September 05, 2008 at 08:32 AM
Seems more about Jerry's comedy act than Microsoft. No real mention of their product or brand.
I'm not convinved it's working. I think it's just being viewed a lot because it's new. Working means it's changing people's mind and we won't know for a while.
Posted by: Paul Herring | Friday, September 05, 2008 at 02:31 PM
I think its a good try, but Microsoft has to work on delivering what it promises.
Posted by: MAra | Monday, September 08, 2008 at 04:38 AM
Matt, I think it's important to understand what Microsoft is trying to accomplish. This isn't about features or reliability or those (very valid) issues. This is about repositioning a brand on the broadest level.
My more in-depth take is here:
http://eyecube.wordpress.com/2008/09/20/crispin-porter-bogusky-use-marketing-jujitsu-to-aid-microsoft/
Posted by: Rick Liebling | Saturday, September 20, 2008 at 11:24 PM
I think this commercial is absolutely awful. Why? Simple. Bill Gates comes off as stiff, nerdy and counter-intuitive as the Microsoft operating system. He also has little synergy with Jerry Seinfeld. When they finally get to the punchline at the end, what comes through is one message: this commercial was ridiculous. No wonder Microsoft pulled it.
We often talk about Apple ads because they are creative, innovative and succeed well in conveying the brand.
Microsoft finally succeeded in getting us to talk about their ads. But, the conversation we're having is probably not the one they wanted. How much did that one cost? Hmmm...I'd venture we're talking low 7 figures.
Posted by: Neil Vineberg | Sunday, September 21, 2008 at 12:54 AM