In today's fast-paced digital world, marketing has become an essential component of any business strategy. Our team of marketing experts has years of experience helping businesses of all sizes achieve their marketing goals and is excited to share the best tips, strategies and tactics to help you succeed.
Hi! I’m Hannah Schmidt, a communications specialist at KMK Media. In other words, I write web content, manage social media marketing, send PR pitches, coordinate events, and occasionally chase down last-minute RSVPs—basically, if it involves words or organization, I’m probably on it. I’m in the middle of it. My job is a fun blend of strategy, storytelling, and creativity… and on this particular Wednesday, it also included a very good police dog named Dice.
Here’s how the day went:
5:30 a.m. – Getting started
My alarm goes off at 5:30 a.m.—not because I have to, but because I like to. I kick off the day with a light workout (I’m training for a half marathon in June!) and enjoy a little peace before things get busy. After getting my miles in, I eat breakfast and hang out with my cats—my first (and fluffiest) meetings of the day.
7:45 a.m. – Inbox dive and to-do lists
Once I’m at the office, it’s time to scan through emails, organize my day, and prioritize projects. On this particular morning, I had a mix of writing and client check-ins on deck.
Morning – PR pitches, content calendars, and social strategy
I started by sending out a second round of February PR pitches for one of our finance clients and wrapped up some social media strategy suggestions to help another client boost engagement. I finalized a social media calendar for a client in the construction industry and followed up on some blog planning and media outreach for a local nonprofit.
Lots of multitasking, but I love hopping between industries—it keeps things interesting!
12:00 p.m. – Lunch and a breather
I usually break around noon for lunch. It’s a much-needed reset before heading into the afternoon sprint.
1:30 p.m. – Dice steals the spotlight
This afternoon was hands-down the highlight of my week: coordinating a press event at Hard Rock Casino Rockford with the Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department to introduce Dice, their newest K9 officer. With Hard Rock sponsoring his addition to the unit, Dice made his public debut and totally stole the show. I helped coordinate media onsite, answered questions, confirmed interviews, and sent out a post-event PR pitch to keep the buzz going. PR with paws? Yes, please.
Afternoon – Design reviews and wrap-ups
Back at my desk, I reviewed flyer designs for an upcoming client’s open house and sent the latest proofs off for feedback. I wrapped up the day by checking in on a few final projects, answering emails, and prepping for tomorrow’s tasks. There’s always something new to jump into -- just how I like it.
5:00 p.m. – Off the clock and on the dance floor
After work, I swapped my work brain for dance brain. I’m very active in the Rockford and Wisconsin dance community, and tonight I had an Improv dance session to get to. It’s my favorite way to recharge and stay creative.
No two days in this role are ever the same and that’s exactly what keeps it exciting. From PR events to social content to client brainstorms, I love getting to tell stories that connect people, build brands, and sometimes… involve dogs.
As we step into a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect, revamp, and recharge—not just personally but professionally. For businesses, a logo is more than just an image; it’s the face of your brand and a critical part of your identity. If your logo hasn’t evolved with your business, 2025 might be the year for a makeover. Here are the top five reasons to consider refreshing your logo this year:
1. Stay Relevant in a Changing Market
Design trends evolve, and what worked a decade ago might not resonate today. A modern, updated logo can signal to your audience that your business is forward-thinking and adaptable. From minimalist styles to bold typography, aligning your logo with current trends can help your brand remain competitive and appealing.
2. Connecting with a New Audience
As your business expands or shifts its target audience, a logo redesign can help you connect with a new demographic. It enables you to tailor your visual identity to better appeal to the values and preferences of your evolving customer base. A well-crafted logo can attract and engage a broader audience, building a deeper connection with both existing and potential customers.
3. Improve Brand Recognition
Did you know 75% of consumers say they remember a brand by its logo? A memorable logo is a powerful tool for brand recognition. If your current logo doesn't leave a lasting impression or is easily forgettable, it might be time for a change. A new logo gives you the chance to create a visually striking and memorable symbol that resonates with your target audience, making your brand more memorable and identifiable in a crowded market.
4. Adapt to Digital Spaces
In today’s digital-first world, logos must look great on everything from social media profiles to mobile apps. If your logo wasn’t designed with digital platforms in mind, now’s the time to optimize it. A simplified, versatile logo ensures it works seamlessly across all mediums.
5. Celebrate Milestones
Is your business hitting a significant milestone in 2025? Anniversaries, achievements, or the start of a new chapter are excellent opportunities to refresh your logo. A redesign not only marks the occasion but also reinvigorates your brand, reminding customers of your legacy and commitment to excellence.
Ready to Redesign? Let’s chat: https://www.kmkmedia.com/lets-talk/contact.
Hi, I’m Shaun Kehoe, a web developer at KMK Media. If you’ve ever wondered what a typical day looks like for someone in my role, here’s a peek into my daily routine. Spoiler alert: it’s a mix of strategy, creativity, and a lot of caffeine!
5:00 AM - The Day Begins
My alarm goes off bright and early. I’m a morning person, so I like to start my day with some quiet time. After getting ready, I let my dog out for a quick walk, enjoy a hearty breakfast, and mentally prepare for the day ahead. By 6:30, I’m on the road and ready to tackle whatever challenges come my way.
7:00 AM - Diving In
I’m usually one of the first people to arrive at the office. The first thing I do is check my emails and prioritize tasks for the day. Creating a detailed to-do list helps me stay focused and ensures I hit all my deadlines. With my plan in place, I dive straight into the first task on the list.
9:00 AM - Team Collaboration
Our staff meeting is one of the highlights of my morning. It’s a chance to connect with the entire team, share updates, and brainstorm solutions to any challenges we’re facing. Collaboration is at the heart of everything we do at KMK, and these meetings ensure we’re all aligned and working toward the same goals.
11:00 AM - Client Kickoff Meeting
Today, I joined an internal kickoff meeting for a new client website. This is where the magic begins—brainstorming ideas, discussing goals, and setting the foundation for a site that not only looks great but performs flawlessly.
Hi there! I’m Gary Payne, a graphic designer at KMK Media, where I get to turn creative ideas into reality every day. Curious about what a typical day looks like for me? Here’s a glimpse into my routine—a mix of design work, classic TV, and spending quality time with my wife, Stacy, and our dog, Wishbone.
Morning Rituals: A Balanced Start
5:30 a.m. - I’m up early to get ready for the day, making sure I leave enough bathroom time for Stacy to prepare for hers too (a key to a happy marriage!). After that, I let Wishbone out and get busy in the kitchen, making breakfast and packing my lunch.
6:00 a.m. - I settle in front of the TV for some downtime, catching an episode of The Andy Griffith Show or Chain Reaction on the Game Show Network. Wishbone, of course, is right by my side until Stacy comes downstairs and gives her some Cheerios—a morning snack she loves.
7:00 a.m. - I head out for work, enjoying the half-hour commute when traffic’s light.
When you think of a multi-media/web developer, you might picture someone tucked away in a dimly lit room, surrounded by monitors and tapping away at lines of mysterious code. But a day in the life as KMK Media Group's go-to tech wizard (complete with wand), is so much more than that. Curious about what keeps me busy? Buckle up for a behind-the-scenes look at a typical day!
8:00 AM: Getting the Day Rolling I kick off my morning by steeping some tea and diving right into my first task: adding a slick new header image for one of our clients, the Northwestern Illinois Area Agency on Aging. Precision and creativity go hand-in-hand, so I like to make sure everything looks perfect and fits seamlessly into the website's design. After a few tweaks and double-checking that the image loads beautifully across all devices, I send it off to the client for approval.
9:00 AM: Team Check-In It’s time for the weekly staff meeting, where the rest of the KMK crew and I gather to catch up and discuss current projects. Whether brainstorming creative ideas or reviewing timelines, this is a chance for everyone to share input, exchange laughs, and stay in sync.
10:30 AM: Rockin’ Out with Video Editing Next up: some video editing magic. Today’s project? Adjusting the audio for a Hard Rock Casino Rockford timelapse video, making sure it strikes the perfect balance between powerful and clear. I fine-tune the sound, syncing it to jive with the visuals.
12:00 PM: Technical Guru Mode Activated Time for another meeting! This time on a sales presentation for a prospective client. As KMK's resident tech expert, I handle the technical aspects, ensuring everything goes smoothly.
For those of you who own a small business, you know your title as president, CEO or chief-everything-officer doesn’t mean anything.
Yesterday, I took out the garbage.
After 26 years in business, it still doesn’t feel like work because I love what I do—working on my business and in it. I think my favorite part is the diversity of what I do. Every day is very different from the one before and within each typical 10-hour average workday, I partner with multiple clients spanning several industries. I also get to work with our talented team.
Here’s a sneak peek at a day in my life…today, Tuesday, September 17, 2024.
6:30 a.m. – Wake up and run/walk (depending on energy level) on the treadmill for 20-30 minutes while watching the national news recorded from the night before. If time allows, catch up on the local morning news.
Let’s face it—no one wants to be just another cookie in a generic cookie-cutter world. Brands, like people, are craving individuality, originality, and most of all—connection. Enter creativity, stage left! It’s the heartbeat behind every memorable brand, the key to unlocking genuine relationships with your audience, and the secret ingredient that keeps people coming back for more.
Why Creativity is the Soul of Branding
At the core of every successful brand is creativity. It’s not just about having the most visually appealing logo or the snazziest tagline; it’s about telling a story that resonates emotionally. People don’t fall in love with brands because of facts—they fall in love because of how the brand makes them feel.
Think about your favorite brands. What comes to mind? Odds are, it’s not just their products or services, but how those brands make you feel when you interact with them. Whether it’s a sense of comfort, excitement, or nostalgia, creative branding uses emotion as its superpower to foster connections.
The Human Touch in a Digital World
Whenever I tell people what I do for a living – communications specialist – I’m instantly hit with “and what is that?” which, fair enough. I usually respond with a standard “I write anything that needs to be written- from social media posts to web copy - to market clients across various industries including healthcare, government, education, financial, manufacturing, etc.” and hope they’ll leave it at that. If the person in question is especially nosy, I’ll run through a list of standard job duties until their eyes glaze over and they take the hint and leave me alone.
The truth is, as a communications specialist for a small marketing and advertising firm, I do a little bit of everything, but instead of boring you with everything I could do in a day, I’ll take you on a tour of what I did do in a day – Tuesday, September 3rd, to be exact.
5 a.m. – Wake up and exist: despite what this early wake up time would have you believe, I am not a morning person. I get up this early in order to be functional by the time I need to be functional.
5:30 – 7:20 a.m.– Get ready for the day: once I have sat and stared into the middle distance long enough to feel human, I can start acting like a human. I eat breakfast, drink coffee and read, this morning it was Creation Lake by Rachel Kushner. Then I get ready and drive into the office.
7:20 a.m. – Arrive at work, settle in, check emails, put together my to do list for the day: I am a big fan of lists. They’re the only way I stay organized and every morning I look at what needs to get done that day, that week and put together a rough outline of what I’ll tackle for the day. It’s not unusual for projects to pop up during the day that need to be completed quickly, so I try to leave room for unexpected deadlines, as well.
In today’s digital age, your website is often the first impression potential customers have of your business. It’s your online storefront, and like any storefront, it needs to be inviting, functional, and up to date. However, many businesses fail to realize when their website is stuck in the past, which can lead to lost opportunities and a diminished online presence. Here are five signs your website might be due for an update.
1. Outdated Design
Web design trends evolve rapidly. What looked cutting-edge five years ago can now appear stale and unappealing. If your website still features old-school elements like flash animations, heavy textures, or an overuse of stock photos, it’s time for a refresh. Modern design emphasizes simplicity, clean lines, and user-friendly interfaces. Updating your design not only improves aesthetic appeal but also enhances user experience, making visitors more likely to stay and engage with your content.
2. Poor Mobile Experience
With over half of all web traffic coming from mobile devices, a website that isn’t mobile-friendly is a significant drawback. If your site doesn’t adapt to various screen sizes or requires excessive pinching and zooming to navigate, it’s not providing a good user experience. A responsive design ensures that your website looks and functions well on all devices, from desktops to smartphones. Not only does this improve user satisfaction, but it also boosts your search engine ranking, as Google prioritizes mobile-friendly websites.
Technically yes, Artificial Intelligence (AI) can build you a new website. BUT you don’t want that and here is why.
AI is transforming numerous industries, and website development is no exception as the promise of AI-driven tools to build websites effortlessly appeals to many, particularly those without technical expertise or coding knowledge. However, while AI can significantly aid in creating websites, it cannot entirely replace the nuanced work of professional web developers. Let’s delve into how AI can assist in website development and why it won't replace human developers anytime soon.
How AI Can Assist in Website Development
The Limitations of AI in Web Development
While AI can serve as an excellent starting point and a supportive assistant in the website development process, especially for those without a technical background, the role of human web developers remains crucial for achieving truly distinctive, secure, and high-performing websites. https://www.kmkmedia.com/
The March 2024 Google Core Update has sent ripples through the search engine optimization (SEO) landscape, promising a shift towards more relevant and useful search results while cracking down on spammy practices. In essence, it's a battle against low-quality content and a push towards elevating genuine, informative material. So, what changed?
Refining Google's Ranking Systems
At its core, this update aims to refine Google's SEO ranking systems, prioritizing websites that offer valuable, original content over those that rely on manipulative tactics to boost visibility. While the update is still rolling out, it's evident that businesses and content creators need to adapt to stay competitive in search rankings.
One of the key takeaways is the emphasis on content quality assessment. Websites with thin, recycled, or outdated content are likely to see a decline in their search visibility. This shift underscores Google's commitment to serving the interests of the end user, ensuring that content is created to genuinely inform and engage rather than solely cater to search algorithms.
Strengthened Spam Policy
Are you ready to ride the wave of AI revolutionizing marketing? Hang ten with us as we catch some gnarly insights into how AI is transforming marketing as we know it, and what the future holds for this radical tech.
Picture this: You're cruising through the vast ocean of consumer data, looking for that perfect opportunity to ride. But hey, it's not just any ocean; it's an ocean powered by artificial intelligence. AI isn't just a buzzword anymore; it's the fuel propelling marketing strategies to new heights.
Making Waves in Customer Segmentation
Gone are the days of casting a wide net and hoping for the best. With AI, we're slicing and dicing data faster than a sushi chef on a roll. Customer segmentation has reached a whole new level of precision, allowing us to target specific audiences with laser-like accuracy.
Say you run a surf shop. AI crunches through your customer data like a pro, revealing that while some customers are all about longboards, others are searching for the latest in shortboard technology. Armed with this insight, you can now tailor your marketing efforts to target each group with messages that speak directly to their surfing style.
Cowabunga, Personalized Messaging!
Imagine crafting marketing messages that resonate with everyone like their favorite song playing on repeat. AI-powered personalized messaging does just that. By analyzing heaps of data faster than you can say "gnarly!," AI helps us serve up content that speaks directly to the heart (and wallet) of our audience.
(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media was hired by Four Rivers Sanitation Authority to develop a comprehensive Communications Plan. Four Rivers Sanitation Authority, dedicated to providing essential services to the Northern Illinois region, has enlisted the expertise of KMK Media to craft a strategic communication framework. By aligning messaging, frequency, and channel utilization, the goal is to ensure the successful implementation of Four Rivers' initiatives while reinforcing its purpose and value within the community.
As part of this partnership, KMK Media will focus on the development of targeted social media advertisements and videos. These multimedia assets will play a pivotal role in amplifying Four Rivers' message, engaging stakeholders, and fostering meaningful connections with the community.
In business for more than 25 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
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(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media was hired by L&L Builders to modernize its online presence through a comprehensive website development project. The project will focus on enhancing the website's functionality and user experience, covering areas such as site construction, programming, CMS integration, SEO optimization, responsive design, site search, Google Analytics setup, and content writing.
Founded in 1960, L&L Builders has established itself as a trusted name in construction, evolving from its origins in masonry to become a prominent player in general contracting. Specializing in commercial construction, the company's portfolio includes projects in the medical, industrial, government, restaurant, and historic restoration sectors.
In business for more than 25 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
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(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media was hired by LR Communications to develop a new website to promote their telephone and internet services to the Northwest Illinois Region.
Founded in 1996, LR Communications initially focused on delivering affordable long-distance telephone solutions, gradually expanding its services to include internet connectivity. LR Communications is a subsidiary of Leaf River Telephone Company.
In business for more than 25 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
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(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media Group earned a Silver Educational Advertising Award for its creation and production of a video for the Boone-Winnebago Regional Office of Education (ROE 4). The award-winning video captures the essence of the ROE 4 Summit Academy, offering a glimpse into the alternative school’s unique and highly successful approach to education. https://youtu.be/E_JhkkaLzF0
The Educational Advertising Awards, recognizing the best educational marketing and advertising across the United States, is a platform that celebrates creativity, innovation, and excellence in the educational field. KMK Media Group's recognition in the “Video Category” is a testament to the agency's commitment to delivering high-quality, impactful content.
"We are honored to be recognized by the Educational Advertising Awards for our work on the ROE 4 Summit Academy video," said Pam Maher, President of KMK Media Group. "We are honored the video was shared with the ISBE State Superintendent Dr. Tony Sanders. This recognition underscores our team’s commitment to excellence, further motivating us to keep pressing the boundaries of creativity and innovation in educational marketing."
In business for more than 25 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
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Does it seem like everywhere you turn there’s news about artificial intelligence (AI) taking over another aspect of daily life? From turning on your lights to finding you the perfect end table, AI can cut down on the endless drudgery of our modern existence. But what about when it comes to the creative stuff we do as marketers?
AI has come a long way in replicating certain creative tasks like generating text, images, and even music. While AI promises enhanced efficiency, it lacks the unique human touch essential to many creative endeavors.
What Makes Human Creativity Superior to AI?
Human creativity springs from our life experiences, personalities, emotions and the ability to make unexpected connections. When a writer conjures up a metaphor that tugs at your heartstrings or an artist depicts a scene that vividly conveys an emotion, that's human creative genius at play.
AI systems today, while increasingly sophisticated, lack lived experiences that allow humans to infuse art with empathy, meaning and wisdom. Their outputs, while often technically sound, tend to be generic and sterile. There's also a real risk of producing inaccurate or contextually inappropriate content, jeopardizing brand consistency and potentially damaging reputation.
AI's Benefits for Marketing
Ever found yourself cruising down the highway, catching a glimpse of a billboard that made you do a double take? You know, the kind that makes you slam on the brakes just to take it all in? Well, my friend, that's the magic of good billboard design.
In a world cluttered with information and distractions, creating a billboard that stands out is like mastering the art of a perfectly brewed cup of coffee – it requires the right blend of elements. So, grab your creative hat and let's dive into what makes a billboard a roadside masterpiece!
1. Less is More:
Imagine you're driving at a breezy 65 mph (or maybe a little faster, we won't tell). You've got about 5 seconds to make an impression. That's right – 5 seconds! So, keep it simple. A clear message, bold fonts, and minimal clutter will ensure your audience gets the gist without causing a traffic jam.
2. Eye-Catching Imagery:
A picture is worth a thousand words, and on a billboard, it's worth even more. Choose images that resonate with your audience and are easy to understand. Bonus points for creativity – make 'em say, "Wow, I never thought a toothpaste ad could look so cool!"
3. Colors that Pop:
Picture this: a gray billboard against a gray sky. Yawn, right? Inject some color into your design! Vibrant hues can grab attention and make your billboard memorable. Just be careful not to blind anyone – unless, of course, you're advertising sunglasses.
'Tis the season to be jolly, and what better way to celebrate than by infusing your holiday marketing with a generous dose of goodwill? In the spirit of spreading joy, businesses are increasingly recognizing the value of incorporating charitable initiatives into their holiday marketing strategies. As we deck the halls and wrap up the year, let's explore the positive impact of infusing your brand with purpose and meaning during this festive season.
The Power of Purposeful Marketing:
In a world where consumers are not just buying products but investing in values, purposeful marketing has become a key player in the business landscape. The holidays, with their emphasis on joy and giving, provide the perfect backdrop for brands to showcase their commitment to making a positive impact beyond the bottom line.
Building a Connection with Consumers:
The holiday season is a time when emotions run high, and consumers are seeking more than just material goods. By aligning your brand with a charitable cause, you tap into the innate desire for connection and meaning. Consumers appreciate businesses that demonstrate social responsibility, fostering a sense of trust and loyalty that extends beyond the holiday season.
Differentiation in a Crowded Market:
'Tis the season for a marketing extravaganza, with every brand vying for consumer attention. Incorporating charitable initiatives sets your brand apart in a sea of advertisements. When consumers see a brand making a positive impact, it creates a memorable and favorable impression, contributing to brand recall long after the decorations have been taken down.
Amplifying Brand Values:
The holiday season is an opportunity to showcase your brand's values authentically. Whether it's supporting local communities, environmental initiatives, or addressing social issues, aligning your brand with a cause communicates a deeper purpose. This authenticity resonates with consumers, fostering a positive perception of your brand that extends beyond the transactional.
(Rockford, IL) … KMK Media Group received a Gold MarCom International Award for its creative work for RAMP Mental Health Ad Campaign. The award-winning entry includes a captivating array of billboards, videos, engaging social graphics, and compelling social ads, all designed to spotlight the invaluable services provided by RAMP to individuals with both visible and nonvisible disabilities throughout Northern Illinois.
The Marcom awards are administered by the Association of Marketing and Communication Professionals (AMCP). The competition honors excellence in marketing and communications work and is one of the largest creative competitions in the world, drawing approximately 6,500 international entries annually.
“Receiving the Gold MarCom International Award underscores the dedication of our talented team to produce compelling, creative solutions for our clients,” said Pam Maher, the President/CEO of KMK Media Group.
KMK Media earned an Honorable Mention for its creation of the Rockford Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Destination Marketing Survey motion graphic video. The video helped the RACVB meet their goal of 2,000+ survey responses.
In business for 25 years, KMK Media Group is an award-winning woman-owned marketing firm specializing in web site development, graphic design, public relations, advertising campaigns and social media marketing. www.kmkmedia.com.
