Compass^(x) Strategy was launched with a very simple, yet aspirational mission:  Use our skills “for good.”  We are dedicated to this mission, and bring it to life every day with seven principles that guide our every action and interaction:

1. Don’t overcomplicate it

Too many consulting firms develop overly complex processes and approaches in order to charge a lot of money and show how smart they are.  We believe that smart is in the ability to take complex issues and find elegant and simple solutions.

2. Marketing is more than just Brand Communications

Advertising, social media and PR are all critical tools used to grow businesses.  But they are merely tools.  Marketing is bigger than that.  Marketing is EVERYTHING you do to convince people to choose your product or service over all of the other options they have.  EVERYTHING.  So, even if Compass^(x) Strategy ultimately creates a brand communication plan, the starting point and the lens through which we view the world starts with that perspective.  What this means for you is a more holistic and ultimately successful approach to growing your business.

3. Solve the real problem

“Our advertising isn’t working,” or “we need a better PR firm,” or “people love my blog, but won’t pay for my services” are complaints we hear a lot.  Sometimes the problem is exactly that, but that is rare. The problem is often the strategy, not the tactics mentioned. So, we focus on the root of the problem, understanding the target audience, the things that really matter to them, and the way they want to interact with your brand.  Fixing the symptom won’t help.  We believe that if you understand why the symptom exists, you will be more effective at solving the root cause.

4. Take our work very seriously, but never ourselves

Like you, we started Compass^(x) Strategy because  we have a deep passion for what we do.  And, if you allow us to help you, we will take that very seriously and will work hard to help build your business and earn your respect.  But, that doesn’t mean it can’t be fun along the way!  We have an informal and conversational approach to working with clients.  We won’t try to overwhelm you with complicated and hollow jargon.  We’ll work hard and talk in a way that makes sense.   And have a lot of fun along the way.

5. “Form follows function”

While this was originally said by the renowned architect  Louis Sullivan,  we believe it is true in marketing as well.  Said another way:  tactics follow strategy. Stories are told of an entire brand being built upon one great creative idea…but these are the exceptions, not the norm.  More often, creative inspiration comes from clearly articulating who you are, why people choose you and where you want to go.  Once you know that, you are more likely to strike creative gold. We start at the beginning.  We are told it is a very good place to start.

6. Teach along the way

Traditional consulting firms hate including clients in the process of solving the problems.  It makes sense, really.  If people see how it is done, they won’t need to rehire the firm for future projects – they can do it themselves.  We believe that in order to truly help small and mid-size companies, we need to reveal some of the “secret sauce.”  So, we involve you in the process as much (or as little) as you want to be involved.  Our commitment is not just to “give you the answer,” but to help your company thrive.

7. Practice what we preach

At Compass^(x) Strategy we are  constantly challenging ourselves to be smarter, faster and more environmentally and socially responsible.  To that end, here is what we have been doing:  Our website is now hosted on a server run 100% from wind energy.  We offset all of our business travel emissions.  And, we are trying to be good members of the community. We have discounted rates for Green Start-ups and non-profits.  We regularly do pro-bono projects for worthy causes that cannot afford our help.  And starting in 2011, two percent of all corporate consulting fees are donated to non-profits.  But, more than us sharing our good fortune, we like to involve you, the client.  You decide where the money goes.  At the end of each project, Compass^(x) Strategy will make a donation to the charity of your choice in your honor.  We’d be glad to tell you more about our efforts and will keep you posted on our progress.  If you have any ideas or want to discuss how you can get involved, please let us know!