What I Have Learned from 20 Years of Owning Marketing Eye

The Early Days and How Marketing Gradually Evolved

Starting out at 30, I was driven by a passion for marketing and an entrepreneurial spirit that wouldn't let me settle for less. The situation back then was drastically different – digital marketing was still in its nascent stages, and terms like ‘social media marketing’ were not even part of the lexicon. As the digital world evolved, so did Marketing Eye. We transitioned from traditional marketing practices to get onboard the digital bandwagon, a shift that was both challenging and exhilarating.

Learning to Adapt and Improvise: The Birth of Robotic Marketer 

One of the most significant pivots in my career came when I developed Robotic Marketer. This was a response to a gap I perceived in the market: the need for data-driven marketing plans that could be scaled and automated. The process of creating Robotic Marketer taught me that innovation requires not just a good idea but the courage to follow through and the resilience to face the inevitable and endless hurdles along the way. This tool has not only changed the operations at Marketing Eye but has also set a new standard in the industry for how marketing strategies can be developed. 

Scaling Up and Down: Responding to Market Conditions 

Over the years, I learned that scaling a business is not a linear journey. There have been times of rapid growth when scaling up was necessary and periods of economic downturn where it was prudent to scale down. Each phase taught me the importance of agility and the need to make quick yet informed decisions. Being attuned to market conditions and having a flexible business model were the pillars of support as I dealt with these changes. 

Adapting to the Influence of Social Media: From Novice to Expert 

When social media first came around, it was uncharted territory for many, myself included. I quickly realised that to stay relevant, I needed to not only understand this medium but master it. This journey – from social media novice to expert – was that of constant learning and adaptation. It involved not just understanding different platforms but also engaging with them in a way that added value to our community and clients. Today, social media is an integral and undeniable part of our marketing strategy, a tool that has allowed us to amplify our reach and build stronger relationships with our audience. 

Building Community and Sharing Knowledge 

A very important aspect of my career has been building a community of marketers, entrepreneurs and enthusiasts who share a passion for continuous learning. Early on, I recognised the power of community in creating value, both for individuals and for brands. By engaging in public speaking, hosting webinars and participating in panels regularly, I have not only been able to share my knowledge but also learn from others. These interactions have been instrumental in keeping me informed and inspired. 

Public Speaking and Thought Leadership 

Public speaking became an unexpected yet vital part of my role. It pushed me out of my comfort zone and allowed me to establish myself as a thought leader in the marketing industry. Speaking on essential topics – from the impact of technology on marketing to the importance of data analytics – has helped solidify my reputation and that of Marketing Eye. Each speaking engagement has been an opportunity to educate, engage and connect with like-minded professionals and has been incredibly rewarding. 

Being a Practitioner, Not Just a Theorist 

Perhaps one of the most important lessons I’ve learned is the significant impact of being a practitioner, not just a theorist. Theory provides the framework, but practice is where the real learning happens. Staying actively involved in the day-to-day execution of marketing strategies, experimenting with new techniques and continuously refining our approaches has kept my passion for marketing alive and made sure that I stay relevant in a field that is constantly changing. 

Reflecting on 20 Years 

Looking back over the past 20 years, it’s clear that my journey with Marketing Eye has been about more than just building a business. It has been a path of personal growth, continuous learning and quick adaptations. It has taught me resilience, the importance of community and the need to keep growing. As I look to the future, I am excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and am grateful for the experiences that have shaped me into the marketer and leader I am today.