What we know to be true:
1.
The world’s most inspired creative ideas have truth at their core.
Comics figured it out ages ago: Human truths are universal (and often funny.) If we can tap into truth, we will capture hearts and minds.
2.
The smartest thing you can do is be stupid simple.
It’s simple ideas, not bigger PowerPoint decks that change the world. Simplification is a superpower. Use it. Focus on what matters.
3.
Acting like you have nothing to lose is the surest way to win.
Fortune favors the bold. Epic stories unfold when an unassuming hero takes bold action against all odds. Even if you’re a Goliath, act like David.
4.
Most radical “outside the box” ideas come from inside the box.
“Think outside the box” is lazy strategy. Great strategists shape clear boundaries. Creativity thrives on overcoming limitations to solve specific problems.
5.
People want smiles and goosebumps, not “content.”
“Content” is cheap and fleeting. We strive to create things that make a lasting impression. Even the little things should be worthy of people’s attention.
6.
Anyone can buy eyeballs, our job is to earn attention.
If the work we create is ignorable, it will be ignored. Interrupt like you mean it, or light your budget on fire. At least that’ll get attention.
7.
The people you should listen to most are the ones not talking.
Loudmouths make hot air. The quietest people in the meeting are usually the one’s absorbing all they need to create the most radical ideas.
8.
Trends are sexy, timelessness is irresistible.
Following trends will lead you directly into the middle of the pack. Creating original, timeless, iconic ideas is the dream we’re after.
9.
We’re selling cheese puffs, not performing brain surgery.
Why so serious? This business should be fun, so, let’s have fun doing it. Let’s respect what we do while we laugh at ourselves. Great vibes = great work.
The things we do:
Strategy
Define who you are with radical simplicity. Sharper instincts and insights. Be bold not stupid. Smart not heady. Real not ethereal. Flashy decks hide sloppy thinking.
- Brand strategy
- Campaign strategy
- Brand + product positioning
- Brand workshops
- Audience + category insights
Creative
Craft your core message. Unleash the power of a simple idea. Attract hearts and minds with universal human truths. Create campaigns that can’t be ignored.
- Integrated campaigns
- Campaign platforms
- Creative concept & design
- Brand tone & voice
- Brand identity & design
Production
Build all the things a modern media plan requires. Get your brand in front of the right people at the right time. Be unmissable. Repeat yourself shamelessly.
- Digital + social content
- Video + connected TV
- Streaming audio + radio
- Out-of-home + digital boards
- Print + collateral
A few brands we’ve worked with:
A new agency with over 90 years of experience.
In our past, we’ve worked with brands like 3M, Coca-Cola, Harley-Davidson, UnitedHealthcare and Cargill. We got our Super Bowl spot out of our system. We’ve also worked on beloved regional brands like TCO, Minnesota Public Radio and No Name Steaks to name a few. Global, local, B2C, B2B, whatever the brand, we know what it takes to make things people can’t resist and won’t forget.
Work with Verve
Who we are:
Mike Cronin
Founder, Chief Strategist
Mike crafts insightful strategies that tap into the universal human truths that drive behavior. His experience as a creative leader helps ensure strategies don’t just inform but truly inspire the creative work.
Robb Burnham
Founder, Chief Creative
Robb has a long track record of building brands with powerful creative ideas that are simple, smart, bold and connect with consumers through emotion to drive results.