Plus thoughts about the new generation of Instant “Gurus” and the predictable avalanche of mumbo-jumbo. On December 1st I quoted Einstein’s fear that we were breeding a race of idiots, illustrated with a few pictures that suggested it’s true. Now there is little …
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The simple, basic, kindergarten mistake even the experts make. Every day
Why should I care if this man was “on fire”? Would I even squirt down his throat to put him out? Why do people who should know better make these mistakes? A week ago I had to fly to Dublin …
Read MoreThe Godzilla effect: when Mammon fails, try this
This makes me uneasy. Reminds me of those creepy tele-evangelists. What do you think? I’m actually writing this in a hotel near Istanbul Airport called the Gonen, going through my emails. Compared to the ghastly places near Heathrow or JFK …
Read MoreHow to lose money: get your email absolutely 100% wrong
Can you buy something you can’t pronounce? This made my jet-lag infinitely worse The other day I wrote about the folly of whoever has bought Yellow Pages and renamed it for reasons only God can surmise after what sounds like …
Read MoreWhat happens when you give the job to Human Resources?
You get copy produced by the Jargon Is Us machine. Will it find any Geese that lay Golden Eggs? As I’m always desperate for money I read this ad for a copywriter put out by a big direct marketing firm. …
Read MoreFunny (and informative) letter about the Falklands
An open letter someone drafted to Argentina, with a few relevant facts Dear Argentina… NOW look. You’ve been whining about this since 1767 and it’s starting to get on my wick. I’ve ignored you until now, because you’re very silly …
Read MoreHow to turn snow into money: simple advice
This view from my window this morning inspired an investment idea for you My partner Marta LOVES the snow. Where she comes from in Puglia, right down in the heel of the boot in Italy they don’t get any. Having …
Read More“Yell is changing to hibu. What it means for you”. File this under, “Frankly my dear …”
What thrills you and your colleagues is of no interest to us. Especially if your website is like amateur night at the opera I just got this message that Yell is changing to hibu. What it means for you from Richard …
Read MoreI think this is horse***t – and there are other things you should worry about
Are you about to be ripped off? Advice from the Department of Homeland Security Five years ago my beloved took me on a surprise birthday trip to a glorious restaurant overlooking Lake Garda. I ordered carpaccio. Just as I was …
Read MoreTrue story recently published in a newspaper
The importance of accuracy in your tax return This heart-rending cautionary tale produced chortles of joy in this aged reader. It shows just how essential attention to detail is when dealing with the tax authorities. Please read it carefully. It …
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