Tuesday, April 13  

A most powerful letter...

Dear Editor

Now there's a powerful start to a letter...............

Read the "Opinions" page of your local paper and, the cynic in me would suggest, a good number of the letters are from people pushing their own causes. Let's take a look at 2 local newspapers I fished out of the bin:

Here's a sample:

April 7, 2004

4 letters

1. The local Greens political candidate (doesn't say that in the letter of course) arguing against major proposed development on the waterways
2. Local charity organisation thanking people for their support on their major day - accompanied by a large photo
3. Local resident complaining about the increase in high-rise developments
4. Some guy talking about drums and the link with violence

April 13, 2004

4 letters

1. Another guy complaining about the possibility of the waterways development
2. Major stakeholder in a local controversy expressing his views
3. Unsuccessful Mayoral candidate complaining that the victor is already giving himself a pay rise
4. A general complain letter which also mentions the major waterways development proposal

7 out of 8 letters are probably written by people pushing their own agenda. Making others aware of their 'product'. Pure and simple marketing. All for the cost of a 50 cent stamp.

Read by thousands and thousands of people. Not seen as an ad.

Mmmmmmmmmm. Now there are some possibilities.

Regards

Brendon