Alright, client-side folks. We know creative agencies can often be bleeding edge when it comes to technology, creative and terminology. It can be difficult to follow our jargon. So now that spring has sprung, we’re offering a chance to do a little spring cleaning on your marketing communication. Let’s sweep words like “QR codes” under the rug, and replace them with this totally accurate list of common marketing and pop culture acronyms.
Don’t worry, we even showed you how to use them in a sentence.
W.T.F.
Whenever you’re really happy with your agency’s work, just simply reply, “WTF.” It stands for “Why that’s fantastic!” If your Creative Director is the egotistical type, this will send them head over heels for you, ensuring you’re his or her favorite account.
“When I saw your first take at our annual report’s design, all I could think was, ‘W.T.F.’ ”
B.A.E.
When you want the team to know you’re going to drop some knowledge on them, let them know you’re bringing your B.A.E. to the meeting (pronounced as “bay” in most business settings). Nothing impresses a group like some chiseled, and I mean rock solid, absolute facts, also known as “Business Analytics and Evaluations (B.A.E.).
“Hey team, now that we’ve been working together for a while, I’m going to bring my BAE to the meeting, so get ready to learn more than you ever thought you would know!”
L.O.L.
We can’t deny it — advertising is full of egos and emotions. All of this can turn into a roller coaster of communication catastrophes. Some people take these moments and rise above. But others? They need a little encouragement. So if you have a Sensitive Sally or Sammy who spends more time emailing you about problems than actually working, start off your next reply with “LOL!” It means “Lots of Love” and is a great way to show compassion.
“Juliann, I’m sorry we have to keep scheduling meetings during your lunch break. LOL.”
S.E.O.
We know, you’re thinking, “Brad, this is an easy one.” And you’re right, but in the interest of truth and not making assumptions (you know what they say about what happens when you “assume”), we’re leaving no stone unturned. S.E.O. stands for Search Engine Overthrow, is when you pay a company in Bitcoins via the deep web, and they overthrow Google’s fancy algorithm to give you a No. 1 spot for all the words. These results typically happen fast, overnight even.
“This is our year. We’re putting on our black thinking hat, and finding new, innovative ways to get in front of clients. Tom, get the marketing team working on our S.E.O. I need results yesterday.”
W.C.W.
If you really want to seem hip in front of a young female copywriter or designer, just tell them they’re a “W.C.W.” It means “World-Class Woman,” or top notch in their field. They’ll be flattered, as well as impressed with your hipness. This acronym is typically used as a hashtag.
“Susan, your design on that upcoming outdoor campaign was incredible. You’re earning a top spot as a #WCW.”
M.C.M.
Just as you would compliment a young woman, there are simple ways to compliment the young up and coming fellow in the agency. Let him know you’re a fan of his creative by telling him he’s a “M.C.M.” (Magnificently Creative Man).
“Grant, I really perked up when you started going through that analytics report. I was surprised to see how well you erected those bar graphs, you #MCM.”
S.M.H.
When your agency sends something to you that just goes above and beyond your expectations, leaving you speechless, don’t search for words. Simply reply, “S.M.H.” which means “Simply Mesmerized Here.”
“Wow, I didn’t see this kind of presentation coming. S.M.H.”
F.P.O.
If your designer told you artwork was F.P.O., it means the file is approved and “For Print Only.” So ship those bad boys!
“Burke’s images placed said they were FPO, so this is good to go. The art is approved, along with the $8,500 quote for printing!”
P.P.C.
If your Marketing Director says you need to spend more on your PPC, it's a sign you need to take the edge off. PPC is another name for Phencyclidine. You might also know it as Angel Dust. That’s right, it’s not just bourbon and scotch in advertising anymore. But be careful, once people start experiencing the results of PPC, they've been known to cut their budget elsewhere to feed the habit.
“We’ve been flat lately, so I’m thinking some P.P.C. could provide a little pick me up!”
“L.M.A.O” after reading this post? Oh, sorry, that means “Left Me Aware & Optimistic.” Share your agency acronyms with us on Twitter or Facebook. We promise to reply with lots of WTFs.