ChaCha. Ask Away.

According to a recent study from staffing firm The Creative Group, marketing execs think their agencies are playing it “too safe” and aren’t taking enough risks when developing marketing and advertising projects.

“Companies tend to become more risk-averse in an uncertain economy,” said Megan Slabinski, executive director of The Creative Group. “But when budgets are lean, it can be an opportune time for firms to try new or unproven promotional strategies and distinguish themselves from competitors.”

Mobile is the way to differentiate and several advertisers are reaping the rewards. Check out our case studies and you’ll see that it can be low cost, measurable and effective — especially when integrated into an overall campaign.

In this report, The Creative Group recommends the following when going for a new idea. These tips also apply to mobile advertising campaigns or when you plan on integrating mobile into an overall campaign:

Take ego out of the equation. Before going to bat for an idea, carefully consider whether it’s a pet project that won’t have a significant impact on the business or an initiative that could genuinely move your company forward.

Get granular. Minor errors, such as a typo in a presentation or email, can quickly erode credibility. Double-check all information for accuracy before you present it.

Talk the talk. When pitching ideas, use the same terminology that your audience does and avoid creative jargon people might not understand.

Step into the client’s shoes. Similarly, try to view things from your audience’s perspective. Understanding the challenges decision-makers face and the pressures they are under will help you present the most relevant information.

Give evidence. If possible, provide specific examples of firms that have achieved success using strategies similar to the one you’re presenting.

And remember, our mobile marketing consultants can help you develop sample campaigns and ideas before you even jump into a spend. Here’s to risks that pay off in 2009!