Signs of Happiness – How Signage Shapes Success and Smiles
- Marty Jalove Master Happiness
- Aug 19
- 4 min read
When was the last time you truly thought about the signs around you? Whether it’s the glowing open sign at your favorite coffee shop, the bold letters on a storefront, or the directional signage guiding you through a hospital or airport, signs are everywhere. But they’re more than just functional, they’re emotional, impactful, and, as we learned on this week’s episode of “Bacon Bits with Master Happiness”, they’re a key ingredient in building happiness and success.
with special Guest:
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This week, host Marty Jalove welcomed Nonna Kofman, owner of Signarama in Grayslake, Illinois, to dive deep into the world of signage. Together, they explored how signs do more than just point the way; they build identities, attract attention, create connections, and even optimize happiness for employees and customers alike. Here’s a taste of what you missed (and why you’ll want to tune in to the full episode).
…and now for the BACON!
B - Building Identity: The Foundation of Great Signage
Nonna shared how signage is often the first impression a business makes. It’s not just about slapping a logo on a wall; it’s about creating a visual identity that resonates with customers. From illuminated building signs to vehicle graphics, Signarama helps businesses turn their brand into a physical presence.
One key takeaway? Consistency is everything. Nonna emphasized the importance of having a “brand toolkit” with logos in multiple formats, color guidelines, and design standards. This ensures that every sign, from a storefront to a business card, tells the same story.
A - Attracting Attention: The Art and Science of Standing Out
What makes a sign catch your eye? According to Nonna, it’s all about contrast, color, and placement. Whether it’s a bold font that’s readable at 45 mph or a unique design that pops in a crowded shopping center, great signage demands attention.
One standout example? A dance studio that wanted to differentiate itself in a strip mall where every other sign was red. Nonna’s team created sleek black channel letters with day-night vinyl, making the sign look dark during the day and glow white at night. It’s this kind of creative problem-solving that turns heads and drives business.
C - Creating Connections: The Emotional Power of Signs
Signs aren’t just functional; they’re emotional. They tell stories, evoke feelings, and create connections between businesses and their customers. Nonna shared how her team works closely with clients to understand their vision and bring it to life, whether it’s a welcoming sign for a new business or a rebranding project for a national chain.
One of the most heartwarming moments of the episode was hearing Nonna’s passion for her work. “Behind every sign is a story,” she said. “It’s about the people, their dreams, and their businesses. That’s what makes it so rewarding.”
O - Optimizing Employee Happiness: Signs That Inspire
It’s not just customers who benefit from great signage; employees do too. From safety signs in warehouses to motivational messages in offices, the right signage can create a positive, productive environment. Nonna highlighted how intentional design can make a workplace not only functional but also inspiring.
Marty chimed in with his philosophy: “Happy employees attract happy customers, and happy customers come back with friends.” It’s a simple yet powerful reminder that investing in your team’s happiness pays off in spades.
N - Navigating Success: Signage That Guides and Delights
Whether it’s an airport, a hospital, or a corporate campus, signage plays a crucial role in helping people navigate complex spaces. Nonna explained how her team conducts audits to understand traffic flow and user needs, ensuring that every sign serves its purpose.
Marty shared his admiration for well-designed wayfinding systems, like those at O’Hare Airport, which use consistent symbols and colors to guide travelers. “Good signage disappears until you need it,” he said. “And when you do, it’s right there, ready to help.”
What’s Your Bacon?
As always, Marty ended the show with his signature question: “What’s your BACON?” For Nonna, it’s the joy of meeting new customers, learning their stories, and solving their unique challenges. “It’s about creating something that delights them,” she said. “That’s what gets me up every morning.”
Takeaway: Signs of Happiness
At the end of the day, signage is about more than just words and images, it’s about creating experiences, building trust, and spreading happiness. Whether you’re a small business owner looking to make your mark or a corporate leader optimizing your workspace, the right signage can make all the difference.
So, what’s your bacon? What’s the thing that gets you excited, that makes you look forward to Mondays? Whatever it is, let it guide you—and don’t forget to put up a sign to celebrate it!
Signs of Happiness, How Signage Shapes Success and Smiles
To learn more about Signs of Happiness – How Signage Shapes Success and Smiles go to: www.MasterHappiness.com/live or “Bacon Bits with Master Happiness” on Apple Podcast, Spotify, Amazon Music, Audible, iHeart Radio or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts.
Or catch us LIVE on "BACON BITS with Master Happiness" on 983thelife.com, Monday Night at 7:00 PM and start making your life SIZZLE!
Marty Jalove of Master Happiness is a Company Coach, Business Consultant, and Marketing Strategist that helps small businesses, teams, and individuals find focus, feel fulfilled, and have fun. He helps businesses struggling with communication issues between co-owners, staff, and customers grow a happier and healthier business.
Master Happiness stresses the importance of realistic goal setting, empowerment, and accountability in order to encourage employee engagement and retention. The winning concentration is simple: Happy Employees attract Happy Customers and Happy Customers come back with Friends.
Want to learn more about bringing more happiness into your workplace and life? Contact Master Happiness at www.MasterHappiness.com or www.WhatsYourBacon.com
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