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The Most Sincere Form of Flattery?
Lois M. Jeary (January 2001)
For those of us actively working in the advertising business we
know it can be a tough nut to crack.
It requires much trial and error to determine whether or not an
ad that you have created will be successful. Sometimes the ad
may require a small headline adjustment. Other times, adding
or removing a word or two can do the trick. And yes,
sometimes it's back to the drawing board for a complete re-
write.
This is all part of the learning process and aids in our
development and expertise in the advertising medium.
It has been said that 'imitation is the most sincere form of
flattery'. Now here's the clincher -- imitation or plagiarism?
Plagiarize is defined as "to steal and pass off (the ideas or
words of another) as one's own; use (a created production)
without crediting the source; to commit literary theft; present as
new and original an idea or product derived from an existing
source".
I feel it is important to share our ideas with each other. This is
what helps us grow. Working together as a team is one of the
greatest benefits of working online and I've met some terrific
people.
In order to work together effectively, there is generally an
exchange of ideas back and forth. This interaction usually
creates a flood of new ideas. Now when you like someone
else's idea, suggestion or ad and plan to implement same for
your own benefit, I feel it is only common courtesy to mention
this to the other party. Let them know your intent. This is
particularly important when you had no part in the creative
process.
For instance, I've seen people take my ad, verbatim -- starting
with the headline right down to the way I sign off. The only
change is their ID Code and their name/e-mail. Now if the
'leader' of the group initiates this practice, a domino effect
within that group will start. Where will this end? We are not
talking about re-seller or affiliate program ads here.
Personally, I share my ads, my signature files, standard
response letters to SPAM, etc. with anyone who asks for my
advice or assistance. I am just suggesting that before you up
and copy someone else's ad, word for word, you should take a
moment and think about it.
So -- imitation, a sincere form of flattery or plagiarism -- you
decide! I'd love to hear back from you.
Your Partner in Success,
Lois M. Jeary
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Lois is the publisher of Keeping in Touch With My Online Family.
The e-zine provides assistance to new online marketers and is
geared to those looking to leave the "Monday Blues" behind.
Subscribe at mailto:kit_news@home4success.com?Subject=TRAmya
for your free issue today.
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