Most folks don’t really know what PDF files are, and even the ones who think they do know, usually are quite unaware of how interactive PDFs can be. The PDF has a robust built-in programming language, a capability which is seldom utilized.

I made the Refer-O-Matic years ago, for a lecture I was giving to graphic design students in Wichita, and forgot about it. You will, too! The Refer-O-Matic is an interactive PDF file that will generate a letter of recommendation from one of three titans of advertising.

Bill Bernbach (1911-1982) was one of the most creative ad men in history. Always looking for an “offbeat” angle, he sold Life cereal by showing kids refusing to eat it, and American Tourister luggage by having it abused by a caged gorilla.

Leo Burnett (1891-1971) was a pioneer in the invention of “mascots,” such as Tony the Tiger, the Jolly Green Giant, and the Marlboro Man.

David Ogilvy (1911-1999) literally wrote the book on advertising. His theories and principles are still considered the pinnacle of knowledge.

The letters you generate aren’t just generic endorsements; they actually mention you by name, and cite specific anecdotes about how you saved the day for the writer. Any one of these letters will automatically put you at the top of the stack for any advertising job (and since these three men are all dead, nobody can check up on them).

Click here to use the amazing Refer-O-Matic! (PDF, 172 kb)