Do This, NOT That: Marketing Tips with Jay Schwedelson – Episode 275 Summary

Release Date: February 18, 2025

In Episode 275 of "Do This, NOT That: Marketing Tips with Jay Schwedelson," hosted by GURU Media Hub and presented by Marigold, Jay Schwedelson navigates through a whirlwind of current events in business, life, and marketing. Despite battling a cold, Jay delivers a concise yet impactful episode packed with essential updates and thoughtful insights.

1. LinkedIn Account Rental Scam Alert

Jay kicks off the episode by addressing a new scam targeting LinkedIn users. Highlighting a post by Nikita Anil, a Senior Brand Marketing Manager, he warns listeners about scammers attempting to rent out LinkedIn accounts for business expansion.

Jay Schwedelson [02:15]:
"Hello. As our company needs to develop the LinkedIn market, we need to rent a large number of LinkedIn accounts to expand our business network. Would you be interested in monetizing your LinkedIn account?"

Key Points:

• Scam Details: Scammers offer $20 per week to rent LinkedIn accounts, requesting users to provide their passwords and login information.
• Red Flags: Requests for sensitive information, promises of easy monetization, and vague business purposes.
• Advice: Jay emphatically advises against engaging with such offers, emphasizing the importance of protecting personal and professional data.

2. Phasing Out 2025 Outlook Content

Transitioning to content strategy, Jay underscores the necessity of keeping marketing materials current. Citing data from World Data Research, he advises marketers to discontinue any content forecasting or trends related to the year 2025 by March 15, 2025.

Jay Schwedelson [04:30]:
"After March 15th, we see a massive drop in engagement. Engagement rates drop by over 35% for that type of content promoted after March 15th as compared to 30 days prior."

Key Points:

• Engagement Decline: Content promoting future outlooks becomes irrelevant and sees significant drops in engagement post-March 15th.
• Action Steps: Marketers should review and update their marketing automation streams to remove outdated forecasts and ensure content remains timely and relevant.

3. Instagram’s Testing of a Dislike Button

Jay delves into Instagram's latest experiment—a dislike button adjacent to comments. Including a direct quote from Instagram's head, he explores the potential implications of this feature.

Instagram Head [05:50]:
"Some of you may have seen that we are testing a new button next to comments on Instagram. This gives people a way to signal that they do not feel good about that particular comment. Our hope is that this might help comments become more friendly on Instagram."

Key Points:

• Purpose: Aimed at promoting more positive and friendly interactions within the platform.
• Jay’s Take: While the intention is positive, Jay expresses skepticism about the feature's effectiveness and potential to foster negativity if misused.

4. "White Lotus" Season 3 and Brand Collaborations

Shifting to pop culture, Jay reviews the premiere of "White Lotus" Season 3, noting the surge in brand collaborations that accompany the show's new season.

Jay Schwedelson [06:45]:
"For example, the Four Seasons is going to be starting to make this treatment available at their wellness resorts called the White Lotus treatment. That's totally cringe."

Key Points:

• Excessive Collaborations: The influx of partnerships with brands like Four Seasons, Diageo, and Bloomingdale's may dilute the show's authenticity.
• Marketing Concerns: Jay cautions that too many brand integrations can make content feel like extended advertisements, potentially alienating the audience.

5. "Love is Blind" Season 8 Soars on Netflix

Conversely, Jay highlights the success of "Love is Blind" Season 8, which premiered recently and quickly ascended to the top of Netflix's rankings.

Jay Schwedelson [07:30]:
"Love is Blind, Season 8 just premiered. Amazing on Netflix. Very fired up. I've already started this. It takes place in Minnesota and it jumped to number one on Netflix and it passed."

Key Points:

• Viewer Engagement: The show's format continues to captivate audiences, maintaining strong viewership and positive reception.
• Marketing Implications: Successful shows like "Love is Blind" exemplify effective content strategies that resonate with viewers without over-commercialization.

6. The Final Episodes of "Cobra Kai"

Jay touches upon the conclusion of the beloved series "Cobra Kai," expressing a mix of nostalgia and relief that the show is ending after six seasons.

Jay Schwedelson [09:15]:
"The show needs to end. It just needs to end. You know, I love it. It was fine. Very nostalgic. But six seasons is enough."

Key Points:

• Series Finale: While affectionate towards the series, Jay believes that ending it now preserves its legacy without overstaying its welcome.
• Audience Reaction: Acknowledges that fans may be saddened by its conclusion but stands by the decision as a fitting end.

7. Box Office Buzz: "Captain America" vs. "Fantastic Four"

Wrapping up, Jay provides an update on the film industry, comparing the current box office leader "Captain America" with his anticipation for the upcoming "Fantastic Four."

Jay Schwedelson [10:20]:
"Captain America. That is the number one movie at the box office right now. Wow, does that movie look horrible? I like all the superhero movies, but I really don’t think I’m going to see this one because it looks terrible."

Key Points:

• Critique of "Captain America": Despite its box office success, Jay criticizes the movie's quality and visual appeal.
• Excitement for "Fantastic Four": Expresses strong enthusiasm for the "Fantastic Four" trailer, believing it has the potential to rejuvenate Marvel's cinematic offerings.

Connecting on LinkedIn

Before signing off, Jay encourages listeners to connect with him on LinkedIn to stay updated and engage further.

Jay Schwedelson [11:10]:
"If we're not connected on LinkedIn, drop me a connection request. I love being connected. I share horrible memes, other ridiculous things on there."

Closing Remarks

Jay concludes the episode with gratitude towards the listeners for enduring his less-than-ideal vocal condition, reinforcing his commitment to consistency and authenticity.

This episode of "Do This, NOT That" offers valuable insights into emerging scams, evolving content strategies, social media features, and the interplay between pop culture and marketing. Jay Schwedelson effectively balances professional advice with relatable commentary, providing marketers with actionable tips and thoughtful analysis to navigate the current landscape.