The Unpublished David Ogilvy

This collection of notes from David Ogilvy’s work covers essential advertising and business principles:

Core Topics Covered

Copywriting & Writing

Emphasizes simplicity, natural language, and meaningful word choice. Recommends short sentences and paragraphs while avoiding jargon.

Salesmanship & Branding

Advocates for thorough prospect research, consistent brand personality, and differentiating from competitors rather than trying to appeal to everyone.

Hiring & Culture

Prioritizes hiring talented individuals and fostering an environment that encourages innovation and hard work balanced with adequate vacation time.

Business Strategy

Highlights the importance of research in advertising decisions, warns against price-based discounting that undermines brand value, and emphasizes careful client selection based on shared values.

Profit Growth

Suggests increasing revenue from existing clients, attracting new accounts, improving productivity, and eliminating inefficiencies.

Seven Organizational Purposes

1. Serving clients effectively
2. Increasing annual profits
3. Maintaining ethical standards
4. Operating with competitive urgency
5. Keeping services current
6. Fostering excitement
7. Earning community respect

The notes present Ogilvy’s timeless wisdom applicable to advertising professionals and business leaders broadly.