What ‘Cigar Guy’ Can Teach Your About Branding
Posted on Oct 23, 2010 by Michael Gugel in Branding
Mark Pain snapped an amazing photo of Tiger Woods chipping a golf ball right at his camera. But a cigar smoking Indian guy in the corner of the picture stole the show.

Cigar Guy steals the show
Overnight, Cigar Guy became a viral internet sensation. What was Cigar Guy’s secret?
A Unique, Authentic Look
I’d pay to have a beer with Cigar Guy. He looks like he has some interesting stories to tell. His look grabs your attention and HOLDS it because he makes you believe that his appearance is an accurate reflection his personality. HOLDING your attention separates the successful brands and wannabes.
Ask yourself why the guy in the afro in the pic below didn’t go viral.

The guy with the afro gets your attention, but doesn't hold it.
The guy in the afro is putting on an act – he’s faking it. You give him a second of attention and then you move on. Are your customers doing the same with your brand? Are you just concentrating on being unique? Are you forgetting to convey AUTHENTICITY?

