With direct banking companies like Ally flourishing, banks that actually employee legions of customer service reps are finding it increasingly hard to compete. So, with the help of Philadelphia-based agency Tierney, TD Bank is boldly asserting that, yes, personal banking done face-to-face is superior to online banking.

Also, they are here to bribe you with free pens. Pens, like lighters, are things people always feel guilty buying, because it’s 2013 for chrissakes. We live in America. Pens and lighters should be free. Will people actually change their bank based on who offers pens? No, but TD isn’t expecting that. With their new integrated campaign, TD is instead saying one thing: “We get you.”

continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

Do you find yourself unable to make engaging small talk during the summer months? Really, you do? Well, in that case, Philly-based PR/ad agency Tierney’s free mobile app could be perfect for you.

“Summer Conversation Starters” features five location options where one might have a difficult time doing anything but complaining about the oppressive summer heat. Say, for example, you’re at a baseball game. As the press release suggests, ladies can use their new app to bat their eyes and the nearest hunky baseball stud and ask, “Is there a fourth base?” Say you’re at a water park surrounded by sunbathers who looks as though they need to be annoyed. Fire up the app and say, “Up to 80% of your lifetime sun exposure can take place before you reach 18.” Just like that, interesting conversation is generated…unless you get ignored.

The self-promotional campaign also features outdoor ads adorned with QR codes and copy that reads “Spread the word like SPF 50.” If you just want to download the app directly and put it to the test, you can do so here. Credits after the jump.

continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.

In Generation Y’s short time, they can be credited with a wealth of achievements. Among their accomplishments include Jackass, electing a black President, commenting anonymously on the internet and sort of caring about the environment. However, much of this Generation doesn’t have long-term health insurance. That’s where, evidently, Independence Blue Cross sets in.

Of course, Generation Y won’t accept buying health insurance right away. There’s still hope for universal health care, right? (No.) Well, as this spot from agency Tierney says, while you sit there idly on your couch watching TV with a friend, you never know what can happen. I mean, look at our ad protagonist. The guy didn’t move from his spot on the couch once, and he ended up married with three kids, a dog and a sweater.

Buy health insurance, kids, because you might wake up one day with a family and probably pretty bad health due to your inactive, couch-dwelling lifestyle.

Credits after the jump.

continued…

New Career Opportunities Daily: The best jobs in media.