10-word blurb vs tagline

In the Bi-Weekly Marketing Plan Group (BTW next one starts week of March 9), one of the first issues we address is how you talk about what you do. As part of that process, participants have the opportunity to perfect both their 10-word blurb and their tagline.

But often, there is confusion between the two. I am often asked, "What's the difference between them?"

So here's my answer to the question:

The 10-word blurb is what you say when you meet someone, either in person or on the phone. Your objective with it is to say enough to pique the interest of the other person in order to engage them in a conversation. It can (and should) be tailored on the fly for each person you address. Here's a generic version of mine:

"I work with the creatively self-employed and I help them get the clients they want."

The tagline is a line that follows your company name -- a sub-title of sorts -- and is used on a web site, business card and anywhere your logo or identity would be found. Your objective with the tagline is to explain or elucidate what you do in a short, concise phrase or sentence. It has to be more general because you're not there to tailor it.

Here's our current tagline: Marketing Mentor: "Teaching the art of marketing and self promotion."

So they're obviously related, but they have different goals.

Any other good examples out there?

Comments

[Dani Nordin]

I've come to like mine over the months I've been using them. My tagline is "tasty design and marketing with an eco-friendly twist," whereas my blurb is "I work with women entrepreneurs and green businesses to help them brand and market themselves while staying true to who they are."

Both are definitely true to what I do, and they seem to be working.

[Roy Sorrels]

My ten word "elevator line" is "I help writers and aspiring writers achieve their goals." I see now that I need the tagline as something a bit different. Thanks, Ilise, for the nudge!

[Jessica]

Is it possible that the tagline and 10-word blurb can be VERY similar if they work? For instance, my tagline is, "Helping Christian business owners promote their products and services." While my 10-word blurb is different only by one word the changing of the verb "helping" to "help." My blurb is, "I help Christian business owners promote their products and services." Maybe one or both are too general? I like them both because they say exactly what I do, but if anyone has any comments, I would appreciate the feedback. Thanks, Ilise, for the interesting and thought provoking topic. :)

[Janet]

Jessica, how about a blurb like, "I work in Christian business promotion."

Tagline: "Leading Christian businesses to greater success"