Stepping out of full time employment was a huge leap of faith. Having worked all my life and through the early years of both of my children, choosing to be my own boss has been, without question, one of the more scary and intimidating things I’ve done.
There were so many little signs from the universe that culminated to me knowing that this was the right time. Despite there being a global pandemic and mounting uncertainties, I know that this is the year for Brand Culture.
Brand Culture is a concept that came to me a long while ago, following a transition from an agency role to an inhouse one. Though at the time, the idea could have been summarised simply as no ‘b-s’ marketing, it has now matured into a much more sophisticated reality. Still staying true to its root ethos, I like to think that I have now developed not just as a marketeer but also as a business person with strong commercial values. I believe that it is important to look beyond the traditional marketing playbook and that business process and values need to be considered at all stages of a marketing strategy.
I’ve seen too many businesses implement marketing activities in complete isolation of their wider business structure and then struggle to rationalise the return on investment. It is a known fact that sales and marketing are intrinsically linked but so too are all the other functions within a business. I look to deliver marketing practices across an entire business, linking internal and external comms, enhancing touch points and broadening outlets, whilst demonstrating cost effective results.
The approach is solid, and although I have found the early parts of canvassing terrifying, the response has been incredible. Going it alone, I had to be prepared to ‘sell myself’, something I’ve not done for a while. Pitching for work is very much like being interviewed, again…and again…and again. The difference for me though, is that I have felt somewhat fearless. I believe in my offering, I know I’m good at what I do and I’m confident that I can make a difference to your business.
Whilst being so focused on the offering, pitching, winning and delivering projects, as a freelancer, as a new business I have to admit that I fell into the trap of neglecting my own marketing. I am unashamed to say, that this is likely to always be the case. Clients will always come first, they are my priority.
One of the most exciting parts of this journey is being able to work with all types and sizes of business. The diversity of products, services and industries that I am able to be part of and influence is a key personal motivator. Yes, being in charge of your own destiny is daunting but it is exhilarating too. I am so blessed that I have this opportunity and I’m confident that this is going to be a wonderful journey. I look forward to sharing it with you.