Like many people, I think the TV show “The Office” is hilarious. Prison Mike? CLASSIC!
While those cringey scenarios make a funny sitcom, they’d be anything BUT funny if they were your business reality!
Don’t have time to read this post? Watch the video here!
The Office is funny (in part) because of bad leadership and strategy blunders. But a fractional chief marketing officer (FCMO) could have saved Michael Scott and his team from many of their infamous marketing mishaps. Here’s some examples:
1. When the Michael Scott Paper Company Had No Customers
Remember when Michael started The Michael Scott Paper Company… and they weren’t doing so well? They were relying on cold calls to connect with customers. Cold calling has its place, and it all worked out for them in the end. However, an FCMO could have helped them have a strong digital presence, user-friendly website, and Google search rankings through SEO (search engine optimization).
2. Useless Meetings in the Conference Room
“Everyone in the Conference Room — in five minutes!”
Almost every episode of The Office featured a rambling, ineffective meeting. But EOS Level 10 meetings could have completely changed the work environment. Instead of wasting time, a fractional chief marketing officer could have led them in solving problems, staying accountable, and keeping everyone on the same page — in a weekly, 90-minute meeting.
3. Avoiding Disasters Like Michael’s Golden Ticket Promotional Scheme
Remember when Michael decided to play Willy Wonka by hiding five “Golden Tickets” for 10% off a customer’s total purchase — and their largest client got all five? This is a classic example of chasing a “bright, shiny object” without proper evaluation. Good marketing is more than just fun ideas – it’s about what actually sticks and serves your business goals.
And besides, Michael’s wacky promo missed the mark. His customers probably just wanted a reliable paper supplier, not a gimmicky game.
This is where a fractional chief marketing officer could have saved Dunder Mifflin a lot of drama. An FCMO could have tweaked (or tossed!) the idea so it aligned with the company’s goals and budget. Developing a buyer persona would have helped them create campaigns that resonate with their ideal customer. Just curious — what were the metrics to know whether the Golden Tickets were a success or not? The obvious answer is that there were no metrics!
Here at 8 SIGNAL, we always start with strategy. get to know your customers, and make sure we can measure success. No fluff, all focus.
4. Not Having a Strategy
So many business leaders recognize that they need marketing leadership, but they don’t know where to start! That’s where an FCMO shines! We meet you wherever you’re at in your marketing journey, and use our expertise to move you toward your goals!
A Fractional Chief Marketing Officer: Bad for Sitcoms, Great For Marketing
So there you have it! Could an FCMO build, organize and lead your marketing team? Find out more about a FREE 30-day trial to find out!
Ready to level up your marketing strategy? An 8 SIGNAL FCMO might be just the ticket (but not like Michael Scott’s scheme)! Contact us today for more information.
