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Do you have a brand "voice"? If so, what makes it unique? Listen to your company's communications . . . are they clear? Consistent? Is your voice distinctive? Does it take the right tone for your company or organization?

Brand "voice" is the term we use for the way you talk to your clients or customers. This includes everything from the way you answer the phone, to the way you write emails, ads and brochures, to the way you and your employees communicate with clients face-to-face.

Some companies use a more casual voice, like a friend speaking to a friend. Others use more formal language and style to get their message across. It really depends on the type of company you are, what you're selling, and who you're selling it to.

Corporate goliath McDonald's is at it again.

After successfully launching a two-week "free coffee" campaign across Canada in 2009, McDonald's will be repeating the promotion this year.

And yes, the offer is exactly what it sounds like. For two weeks, from March 1-14, Canadians can again head into their local McDonald's for a free small coffee. (Online reports have noted that larger sizes may be made available to customers at lower-volume locations).

That's it. No further purchase or commitment required. Just walk into or drive through any McDonald's and order your free coffee. Talk about an effective way to get customers in the door.

The promotion operates around the principle that it takes people about two weeks to form a new habit. If people get into the routine of heading to their local McDonald's for a free coffee every day for two weeks, in theory, they'll keep coming back (and paying for their coffee) once the promotion is over.

In response to consumer feedback, Heinz has at last redesigned its ketchup packet.

With a more cup-like base, the new design will allow for easier in-car consumption, according to Heinz. The new packets will offer eaters the choice of squeezing or dunking, and also hold three times as much ketchup, reducing the need for multiple packets per meal.

The famous ketchup company says it has struggled for years to develop a product that would provide the convenience customers were looking for, but still remain affordable.

The new packets are in the trial phase right now throughout the U.S. midwest and Southeast, and will be released at select fast-food restaurants in the fall of 2010.

Advertising giant Procter & Gamble is pulling out all the stops as an official sponsor of the Winter Olympic Games in Vancouver — and they're far from alone in their efforts.

Dozens of other advertisers are doing the same this month, taking advantage of this rare, golden opportunity to build their own corporate profiles by positioning themselves alongside one of the strongest, most recognizable brands in the world.

Read more about Olympic advertising campaigns in this New York Times article.

Molson Canadian has a brand-new look for 2010.

The new brand identity was developed by New York ad agency Spring Design Partners. Amongst other changes, the agency did away with the "faux-italic" typeface and the (ahem) "leaf-sweat" — ultimately giving the identity a fresher, more contemporary feel.

What do you think? Share your thoughts about the new identity here.