Because this is Tagline’s personal branding issue, this month’s “Brands from the Past” story is, of course, about a person: Luke Perry. You remember, Dylan McKay, the sensitive, dangerous heartthrob on “Beverly Hills 90210.” Those eyes, that voice, he stole every scene, and every girl’s heart on a weekly basis. Perry left the show in its sixth season to take on more dramatic roles. A smart move that likely saved him from the almost inevitable demise of a teen heartthrob brand. Since then, (more…)

Have you ever heard the quote from the legendary Eleanor Roosevelt: “Do one thing every day that scares you”? When you decide to embark upon becoming a brand, you won’t have to worry about achieving Eleanor’s milestone every day. Building yourself into a brand is not for the faint of heart. But it is well worth it. Having a brand is the prerequisite for building assets that work while you’re sleeping and generate income in the process. Unless you’re happy working for every dollar you earn, you might want to read on. The sooner you start building your brand, the sooner it will start generating cash for you. Here’s my formula: (more…)

Have you heard? You better go to the bathroom before you get on a RyanAir flight or have a little pocket change on hand. That’s right, the British budget airline brand is making headlines around the world as the carrier that is now charging for using the toilet. They will also be eliminating two out of three of their on-board facilities—replacing them with more seats—leaving one bathroom for up to 189 passengers. Guys, be sure to take your Flomax, and gals, well, never mind, you’ll probably be okay.

Can you believe any company, even one known for no-frills flying would want this kind of buzz associated with their brand when it could simply charge an extra pound or two per flight per passenger and be done with it? But that’s not all, RyanAir will be charging for carry-on bags too. I wonder what’s next. How much will a seat belt cost? Or a flotation device? Sorry no air for you until you cough up two euros for that oxygen mask. (more…)