Young employees can bring fresh perspective and a different way of thinking to the marketing industry. Most young workers are eager to learn, build their experience, and apply their skills in the workforce. But for this interview, I sat down with Mia Valdez, an executive fresh out of school and a resume as long as someone in their 30’s.
As Vice President of Marketing for a development company, her leadership peers were at least 10 years her senior and had spent a significant amount of time in the industry, a new vertical for the up-and-comer. When we first met, what struck me about her was her easy confidence and professional demeanor that seemed well beyond her years. As we got to know one another, inevitably the subject of age and “success” came up.
At 23, Mia joined Williams Entertainment as a Vice President of Public Relations and Events. The group develops entertainment parks across the country, ranging from immersive experiences to trampoline parks to axe throwing venues. Mia’s previous experience focused on building brands across the real estate, celebrity entertainment, and nonprofit industries. She also previously held a position in consulting, where she led teams across various marketing disciplines.
Mia said these experiences working with a cluster of diverse industries built her ability to understand and reach a broad range of audience members, bringing her to where she is today.
“I was always told variety of experiences yields new perspectives,” she says. “I am introduced to new innovation every day, in addition to the traditional practices of marketing, so I am open to everything.”
During her tenure as a consultant, Mia had been merging strategic digital thinking with strong project and image management skills. Her work focused on integrated PR campaigns in which she helped clients increase visibility and public awareness through well-executed events, digital media, and media relations. From web design to social media management, brand definition and media relations, she is a Jane of all trades. Here is what I learned from her:
A ‘one size fits all’ approach won’t work. If you’re building a brand you truly want to scale, this approach will fail every time. Research, dedicate time to listen to what people actually need, and pursue a true understanding of the people who will use your product.
Stop selling and start building relationships. Your central goal is always to discover whether you and your potential client are a good fit. Minimize sales pressure by building a camaraderie. Stop the sales pitch and start a conversation.
Small details are important. Detail-oriented content makes all the difference by going beyond advertising and brand identity. By “sweating” the small stuff, you will be an emerging brand and a potential thought leader.
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