According to the PwC Foundation, the number one challenge for businesses today is the desire to integrate technology without losing the human element of an experience and “without creating frustrations for customers while empowering employees.” While today’s technologies can meet core consumer demands – including speed, convenience, knowledge, and friendliness – and allow employees to deliver heightened satisfaction, a positive customer experience is more about balancing automated experiences with real experiences.

To help your business find the ultimate CX sweet spot, this list highlights some of the top leaders in the Customer Experience space that are capturing audiences’ attention nationwide. From riveting anecdotes to actionable insights, these speakers are transforming the CX landscape as we know it today. Listen closely as these thought leaders unveil strategies to redefine engagement, loyalty, and satisfaction for your most valued company assets.

Brittany Hodak

Speaking at over 60 events in 2023, Brittany Hodak has helped tens of thousands of people turn more of their customers into superfans. Featured in multiple top publications, Brittany has the street cred to help any company completely turn the tables when it comes to CX. Brittany has spent the last 15 years helping top names like Walmart, Dolly Parton, Katy Perry, and Disney hone their CX strategy to create a loyal customer base. In her new best-selling book “Creating Superfans,” Brittany uses her deep understanding of business and her past experience in the entertainment industry to guide business leaders toward a people-first CX vision for their company.

Brittany believes that customer experience should be a fun and engaging part of every business. She brings tools to companies in a variety of sectors to create loyal, enthusiastic customer advocates. Brittany’s framework brings value to both new and established companies: communicating your brand story, learning your customer’s story, personalizing your customer’s experience, exceeding customer expectations, and repeating the cycle for lasting success. If you are looking to fire up your workforce and inspire change, Brittany Hodak’s research, interactivity, and humor will be sure to make a lasting impression at your next company event.

Jim Donald

Known to certain circles as the “Turnaround King” and “the vagabond CEO,” Jim Donald helps struggling companies maximize their success by taking a closer look at leadership in the 21st century. The Co-Chairman of Albertsons and Former CEO of Starbucks has distinguished himself in the retail and supermarket industries as a hands-on leader who is able to transform financially troubled companies into multi-million-dollar successes.

During his tenure with Starbucks, Jim took his leadership and management experience to drive record-breaking performance and growth for the company. With an ability to work at all levels of an organization, he strengthened Starbucks’s commitment to corporate social responsibility and focused wholly on the customer experience. Now, as a keynote speaker, Jim speaks about how he has repeatedly heightened the human connection between customers and employees to deliver equally promising results.

Adam Toporek

Adam Toporek is a third-generational entrepreneur and a globally recognized customer experience strategist with a background in small business management, retail, wholesale, and franchising. As the founder of CTS Service Solutions, Adam has a strong understanding of what makes customers stick with any business and provides insights to organizations on how to build real-world, customer-centric solutions.

He believes that the key to delivering a positive customer experience is all about the evolution of the customer service journey, but not necessarily with a strong focus on technology. Instead, businesses should consider how psychology and emotion impact the customer service world, whether it is building customer relationships or training customer service teams.

Steven Van Belleghem

As an expert in customer-centricity and a thought leader in transforming customer relationships, Steven Van Belleghem is known for his ability to engage and inspire companies to improve customer experiences. His approach is about addressing common customer experience issues to produce long-term results, whether through pure human connection, the use of modern technologies, or social responsibility. The popular keynote speaker looks to push the boundaries of traditional customer experiences and help businesses develop modern customer relationships. Like other experts in the field, Steven aims to balance human and digital connectivity to create customer experiences that are memorable, engaging, and profitable all around.

Nick Friedman

Alongside business partner Omar Soliman, Nick Friedman is the co-founder of College Hunks Hauling Junk and College Hunks Moving and is the co-author of several books on the subject of entrepreneurship and business. As a world-class keynote speaker and TV personality, Nick focuses his presentations on the lessons he learned while building his multi-million-dollar nationwide franchise.

When it comes to customer experience, Nick uses his expertise to teach leaders how to hire and train a customer-focused team, the most successful service-recovery process when working with unsatisfied customers, how to drive exceptional customer experiences, and more. He also encourages business leaders and employees to stay attuned to current marketing trends to keep customers engaged and continuously drive positive customer experiences.

Inspire Your Team With These CX Speakers 

Whether you are looking to modernize your company’s take on customer experience or have an upcoming event that needs a new take on customer service, these top keynote speakers and many others can help educate and inspire teams. Speakers like these are turning the customer experience around by looking beyond technology and instead focusing on what new ideas can impact the CX space more effectively and profitably. Book the next top CX speaker in 2024 to drive customer loyalty and customer satisfaction for your business.

Featured image provided by fauxels; Pexels; Thanks!

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7 Strategies for Finding Internships During College 

1. Share Your Online Resume. 

If you do not have a LinkedIn profile, you must create it and mention that you are looking for an internship. Copy various bits from your resume to your profile, especially prior experience and extra skills. It will help the companies looking for student interns to find you. If you require some editing or need to refurbish your resume to meet some of the company’s requirements, check out grabmyessay for writing and editing purposes. Keep things honest and remain realistic about what you can do!

2. Consult Your Academic Advisor. 

If you need help knowing where to start, you must talk to your college staff representative. The chances are high that they may have a list of college internships by cooperating with the companies that deal with your subject. At the same time, you may get special conditions and secure a position as a bright student at a certain academic institution.

3. Research Job Eligibility. 

One of the best solutions is to look for what you have to present to offer certain skills. Sometimes, you have to connect your personality to the company’s vision or showcase why your college is a great fit for what some institutions are trying to achieve. As a way to promote yourself, you may think about the best paper writing services and create a statement of purpose letter or a special email that will help to share your vision and explain why you must be chosen.

4. Contact Local Companies. 

The best trick is to research various local companies first, as it will help you save funds on logistics and avoid being in a foreign or hostile environment. When you already know the company, they will be happy to hire a fellow local from a nearby college or university. It also helps you to deal with local issues and work in the local community.

5. Consider Multilingual Internships. 

If you are a bilingual person or have learned a foreign language as a college student, you may consider transnational companies or foreign branches. Since they may need someone who has academic skills in another language or can explain things as a native, your chances of getting an internship will increase!

6. Research Your Hobbies. 

Even if you are majoring in a specific subject, you may consider internships based on what you really like to do or would like to learn in the future. If you want to organize a pet clinic or promote animal care awareness worldwide, you can browse around these guys to see what options you may have. Remember that an internship can be basically anything as long as you are fit for that. Take your time to research!

7. Gain Additional Skills. 

Do not forget that you can add more certificates and learn how to stand out when you send your resume or talk to certain companies. The best solution would be to check Udemy and Coursera courses that relate to your subject. When you offer more than a future diploma and a grade book, it places you in a unique position.

Keep Your Digital Presence Polished and Clear!

Looking for an internship, you must remember that your social media pages will often matter more than your academic credentials and good grades. While you may be a good specialist and an awesome student, your personality and participation in various non-academic activities will play an important role in any company. Therefore, you must keep your social media presence within professional and moral standards. Your pages must showcase your skills by sharing relevant posts or even adding something that you have written yourself. It will help you to become eligible and show your values and reasons to choose you among the competition. If you keep sharing obscene images or posts that can hurt someone’s feelings, your chances of getting an internship may become obsolete. Think about it!

Featured image provided by Duy Pham; Pexels; Thanks!

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Some of the featured speakers included: Dr. Drew Pinsky, an addiction treatment and internal medicine specialist; Tim Ballard, CEO of Operation Underground Railroad, a non-profit working to stop human trafficking; and Matt Peters, CEO and founder of Search Manipulator, a leader in online reputation management and technology. Past guests include: Keith Ferrazzi, Sheri Salata, Tom Bilyeu, Kara Goldin, Jason Fried, Randy Jackson, Tony Conrad, Peter Diamandis, Ashlee Margolis, Rainn Wilson, and many other luminaries.

Matt Peters was invited to speak about the work that his company, Search Manipulator, has done for various nonprofit organizations and why more online reputation management companies are working with nonprofits. He also advised innovators, entrepreneurs, and executives on the importance of online reputation management and how to effectively build a positive online image.

Mr. Peters highlighted four key reasons that online reputation management companies would work with nonprofit organizations. First, it aligns with their corporate social responsibility goals. Second, it helps build strong relationships with the community. Third, the online reputation management companies themselves gain valuable experience in PR, media outreach, and content creation. Lastly, they benefit from the positive publicity that comes with helping nonprofits.

Mr. Peters expounded on the first reason regarding alignment with corporate social responsibility goals: “Like many companies, online reputation management companies understand that they have a social responsibility. One way that they can show their commitment to social responsibility is through offering their skills and resources to causes they believe in. They can help increase awareness of the charitable cause and improve the brand image of their company at the same time.” 

Matt Peters’ own company, Search Manipulator, is an example of an online reputation management company that has taken to the idea of performing PR work for nonprofit organizations as a way to strengthen its relationship with the community. They have done pro bono work for Operation Underground Railroad (O.U.R.), a nonprofit organization that fights human trafficking through working with law enforcement agencies.

Not only is this a cause that Mr. Peters and his company fully support but their work has also established them as a trusted partner in the community. The company has also benefited in addition to helping O.U.R. succeed, as they have seen increased customer retention and attracted new customers who share their values.

The third reason that Mr. Peters outlined was how online reputation management companies themselves gain valuable experience in PR, media outreach, and content creation. “The experience gained from working with nonprofits can help an online reputation management firm become better at providing digital marketing services to a business of any size.

I can point to the experience that we at Search Manipulator have gained from working with a variety of nonprofits–we have been able to work with creative talent and agencies that we would not have normally intersected with and we have discovered new outlets and sources that we might never have found independently.”

The final benefit highlighted by Mr. Peters that online reputation management companies gain from working with nonprofit organizations is positive publicity. The public is generally favorable to work done by nonprofits and charities, and companies supporting those causes are typically featured in the media in a positive light. This type of publicity can help to build the company brand and establish it as a leader in the industry.

Mr. Peters concluded his session on online reputation management work for nonprofit organizations by saying, “Many online reputation management companies have recognized the importance of giving back to the community and are actively seeking out opportunities to support nonprofits. This trend is likely to continue in 2023 and beyond as more online reputation management companies recognize the benefits of this type of public relations work.”

In an additional speaking session intended for entrepreneurs and executives, Matt Peters discussed the importance of online reputation management and how to effectively build a positive online image. He outlined four important factors in maintaining a positive online presence: 1. Monitor Your Online Presence 2. Encourage and Manage Customer Feedback 3. Publish High-Quality Content 4. Hire a Good online reputation management/Marketing Company. He explained why each of those factors is important and offered details on how to effectively implement them. 

To learn more about Matt Peters and the services offered by Search Manipulator, please visit https://searchmanipulator.com/

To find out more about The Human Gathering, please see https://humangathering.com/

About Matt Peters, CEO of Search Manipulator

Matt Peters is the founder and CEO of Search Manipulator, an online reputation management company that helps customers take control of their online presence. Matt Peters reviews every client’s online presence and develops a customized strategy that will meet their individual needs, rather than applying a cookie-cutter approach to client services as many online reputation management or online reputation management companies do. Matt is well-equipped at navigating the complex landscape of search algorithms and the online world because he applies an engineer’s skillset to the process rather than a salesperson’s. He graduated from Fordham University with a bachelor’s degree in economics. He has appeared on Huffington Post, CBS Money Watch, and ESPN Radio’s Lunch N Learn. One of the key features of Search Manipulator’s business model is that Matt has kept the company lean and avoided unnecessary overhead, enabling him to pass savings on to his clients. Search Manipulator aims to provide the best combination of experience, affordable pricing, and innovative techniques. Confident that they will deliver for their clients, they also offer a 30-day money-back guarantee.

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For example, Google’s quality rater guidelines emphasize the importance of “EEAT” criteria – an acronym that stands for “Experience, Expertise, Authority, and Trustworthiness.” Pieces of content that demonstrate virtue in each of these somewhat overlapping categories are much more likely to rank highly in search engines than comparable pieces of content that fail in one or more categories.

As you might expect, being an expert and writing with expertise is a huge boon for your content strategy.

But there’s a problem. There are, apparently, more experts than ever. And not all of them are legitimate.

So how can you become a genuinely recognized expert in an era of fake and overstated experts?

The Era of Fake Experts

According to the premier digital marketing agency, Marketer, “It’s clear that Google heavily prioritizes content written by experts. The problem is that we live in an era that encourages everyone to call themselves experts. A lot of them are with or without valid credentials. Have you ever noticed that almost everyone on LinkedIn calls themselves a ‘seasoned expert’ of one kind or another? Big tech companies understand this. If you want to stand out as a real expert, you can’t just add a line about being an expert.”

The problem of fake expertise is a multifaceted one. One of your biggest challenges is sheer competition. If you’re working in an industry with 100,000 other people who all claim to be experts, it’s going to be hard for your work to stand out, even if it’s genuinely rooted in expertise.

Additionally, you may have a PhD and decades of experience teaching people, but if Google doesn’t know it, you may not be adequately rewarded in search engine results pages (SERPs).

Expertise Is Still Important

Understanding this, you may speculate that the importance of expertise is declining. If everyone claims to be an expert, it kind of evens the playing field, making the term subjectively less valuable.

But we’re talking about expertise as an abstract concept – not just a formal term. Regardless of whether your main goals are persuading an audience or getting rewarded by search engine algorithms, it’s important to be able to demonstrate expertise in your content.

How to Be a True Expert

These are the most important steps to establish yourself as a true expert in today’s era:

Choose one niche (to start).

Before you start establishing yourself as an expert, you need to choose a niche. The more specific you are, the better; it’s easy to fake expertise as a generic “marketing expert,” but it’s much harder to fake expertise as an expert in PPC advertising for manufacturing companies, for example. Depending on your goals, this may limit your potential reach, but remember, you can always broaden your range of expertise in the future, once you’re more established.

Earn meaningful credentials.

Next, see if you can earn some meaningful credentials. If you have a graduate degree in a particular subject, formal certifications in the field, or awards and recognitions that show what an expert you are, include these in all your author bylines and make sure they’re adequately promoted in your social media.

Write about your chosen niche.

Producing excellent content is still the best way to demonstrate your expertise to algorithms that pride themselves on prioritizing valuable content. Accordingly, you need to write about your chosen niche a lot. You can start on your own blog or a company website, but eventually, you’ll want to expand.

Get your work featured in relevant publications.

If you want to be recognized as an expert in a given field, your work should be published in online publications that are relevant to that field. Online journals, trade publications, and even regular blogs and forums can be excellent choices here. Just make sure your name and your credentials are attached to all your work.

Earn more publicity.

After that, you can work on earning more publicity. Try to get affiliated with major organizations, governing bodies, and influential individuals in the industry, even if it’s just brief exchanges on social media. If you can land yourself some guest-speaking opportunities, that’s even better.

Demonstrate true thought leadership.

In the course of your work, it’s important to gradually introduce more thought leadership, in the true sense. Don’t be afraid to express your controversial opinions and go against the grain; this is going to help you stand out as an expert far more than just regurgitating opinions you’ve heard elsewhere.

Gradually expand as warranted.

Keep growing your influence as an expert in the industry. Content development, networking, and general career development can all help you do this. The more online pieces that are attached to your name and industry, the more your visibility and reputation will flourish.

Whether you’re optimizing for SEO or trying to win over a relatively stubborn audience, building yourself up as an expert is a vital strategy. With these tactics, you can firmly root yourself as an expert in any field relevant to your experience – regardless of how many charlatans you have to contend with.

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Why wouldn’t you take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity?!

In this article, we will go over why you should consider building an Amazon FBA business. Then, we will give you a step-by-step guide on how to start your own.

Let’s get right into it, shall we?!

Why You Should Build an Amazon FBA Business

Starting an Amazon FBA business in 2023 is a smart move for several reasons. And, it’s not limited to the fact that Amazon is one of, if not the largest online marketplaces in the world!

With that said, below is an insight into why YOU should consider building an Amazon FBA business in 2023 and beyond. If you’re looking for passive income or regularly growing profits, it might just be the business model for you.

• Opportunity for Life-Changing Profits. One of the biggest reasons to start an Amazon FBA business is the potential for good profits. With Amazon’s wide customer base, there is a large market for your products. This means more sales and more money for you.
• Potential for Zero Overhead. Amazon’s Fulfillment by Amazon (FBA) program allows you to store your products in Amazon’s warehouses. Plus, they will handle the shipping and customer service for you. This means little-to-know overhead, less work for you, and more time to focus on growing your business.
• Flexibility and Work-Life Balance. Another benefit of starting an Amazon FBA business is the flexibility it offers. You can work from anywhere, at any time, and on your schedule. This makes it a great option for those who want to be their boss and have more control over their life.

Whether your priority is to capitalize on untapped profits or to enjoy flexibility and autonomy in your career, Amazon FBA is the route for you. With little-to-no overhead and unlimited opportunity for growth, there’s no reason not to consider it as a primary means of income!

How to Start an FBA Business on Amazon

Starting an FBA Business can prove a timely endeavor, at least in the beginning during the due diligence and set-up phases. Once you’ve completed your due diligence and prepared yourself for the real work to begin, it’s time to begin moving the needle…

With that said, below is a summarized step-by-step guide that you can follow if you’re hoping to start your very own Amazon FBA business in 2023:

Step 1: Open a Seller Account

To start an FBA business on Amazon, you first need to open a seller account. This can be done easily by going to the Amazon Services website and signing up as a professional seller.

While the professional account does require a subscription fee, it’s more than worth it in the end, especially for someone eager to grow an FBA business with untapped growth potential.

Not only does the professional account offer features that allow you to manage inventory and orders all in one streamlined interface but it also allows you to set your shipping rates, offer special promotions and discounts on listed products, and more!

Step 2: Decide What You Want to Sell

Once you have a seller account, you need to decide what you want to sell. The product research approach includes identifying your target market, conducting market research, and evaluating potential products based on specific criteria. It’s important to choose a product that has high demand and the potential for getting a good profit margin.

The seller can use product research tools such as AMZScout to help them identify product opportunities, evaluate market trends, and conduct competitive analysis. From product research to measuring and analytics, AMZScout will quickly become your most relied-upon tool when building your FBA business from scratch.

Step 3: Source the Product

Once you have chosen a product to sell, you need to find a supplier that can provide you with that product. This could be done by using a wholesale supplier or by manufacturing the product yourself.

Luckily, there are many ways in which you can source products and find suppliers. Whether it’s directly contacting a brand you’re eager to work with or browsing the many wholesale directories available online, this tends to be much easier than most expect.

Just make sure that you practice due diligence. This way, you ensure that the manufacturer or supplier that you choose is both reputable and reliable on all fronts. This can be accomplished through general research, communication, and comparative analysis.

Step 4: Packaging and Labeling

After sourcing your product, you will need to package and label it. This is an important step. It will help to protect your product during shipping and make it more attractive to customers.

Step 5: Ship Products to FBA

Once your product is packaged and labeled, you will need to ship it to an Amazon Fulfillment Center. This can be done easily by following the instructions provided by Amazon.

You can ask your supplier or manufacturer to send the products to FC, or you can have products shipped to your place first to check the quality and then ship them to FC yourself

Step 6: List Products on Amazon

After your product has been received by an Amazon Fulfillment Center, you can list it on Amazon. This can be done by creating a listing on the Amazon Marketplace and providing all the necessary information about your product.

Remember, if you’re going to sell a product that already exists as a listing on Amazon, you can simply join that listing and sell directly through there!

Step 7: Step Promote the Product through PPC Strategy

Once your product is listed on Amazon, you need to promote it. One of the best ways to do this is through a pay-per-click (PPC) strategy. This will help to drive more traffic to your listing and increase your sales.

Conclusion

Starting an Amazon FBA business can be a great way to make money online in 2023!

With good profits, access to Amazon’s FBA program, and the flexibility it offers regarding both work and life, it’s a great option for entrepreneurs looking to start their businesses or individuals hoping to take back control of their lives and their earning potential.

By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article and taking advantage of AMZScout and its tools, you can start your own Amazon FBA business and start making money today!

What are you waiting for?!

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What many non-visionaries don’t fully grasp is that thought leadership is much more than traditional marketing. It requires the generation and dissemination of content that is judged to be both valuable and original. Not a simple repetition of known facts or opinions. Although, you use them in juxtaposition with new ideas. Ultimately, thought leadership is about inspiring others, whether they be customers, colleagues, or industry peers.  Loyalty and trust are often byproducts of thought leadership that pay dividends far beyond the original discourse.

Are there ways to gain positive public perception?

There are many ways to establish, demonstrate and maintain a public perception of thought leadership skills through writing articles, publishing white papers, presenting keynote speeches, being a panelist at industry conferences, hosting webinars, or appearing in media interviews, to name a few. They all, however, have an endgame in mind, and that is to build a respected brand, establish credibility, and be seen as a catalyst for positive change within an industry.

However, thought leadership doesn’t necessarily come naturally. It requires a genuine and deep-rooted knowledge of an industry, a thirst for knowledge about current circumstances, near- and longer-term trends, and a desire to help shape that future. Not everyone has this overt interest. But, there are almost always individuals – or even groups – of employees deeply invested in an industry’s future and their company’s place in it. For B2B purposes, mining and leveraging these people’s knowledge is essential. It’s essential to enhance their reputation, attract new opportunities, and gain a competitive advantage.

But does thought leadership work?

If completed properly, absolutely, but the degree of its effectiveness varies depending on the industry sector, the target audience, and, frankly, the perceived quality of the information and opinion posited. The introduction of screw caps? Not thought leadership. It was just a good idea, albeit a good idea born of someone who originally thought of and championed its well-executed implementation.

What do you stand to gain from establishing a reputation for thought leadership?

A lot.

First and foremost, thought leaders gain hard-won credibility. Established thought leaders – with an emphasis on “established” – enhance their reputation and acquire credibility in the form of increased trust from peers, fellow professionals, customers, and stakeholders.

Thought leadership helps individuals and organizations be more consistently recognized in a crowded market. Being sought out from amongst that crowd to share perspectives expertise and ideas is even better and increases brand recognition and differentiation.

Thought leaders draw a crowd. An engaged and loyal following increases visibility and presents numerous new opportunities for collaboration and partnership.  This visibility is a cornerstone of generating new business opportunities with potential clients, customers, and investors.

Coupled with their credibility, thought leaders have influence. You can never underestimate the power of an influential thought leader on your team. Nurturing their ability to connect with decision-makers, policymakers, and other stakeholders can profoundly impact a specific organization, broader industry, or even global perceptions.

So, just become a thought leader and everything will be OK, right?

No. Thought leadership is not a quick fix. Establishing a good reputation and gaining credibility takes a sustained and consistent effort over time.  Moreover, that consistency must be coupled with verifiable content through multiple engagements over time. Credibility and reputation are hard won and easily lost. So, being proven to have consistently useful and broadly accurate insights are essential to be taken seriously.

Can I quantify what qualifies as thought leadership?

Well, yes and no. It’s true that the availability of masses of data and the ability to analyze it has changed the game in terms of traditional B2B marketing. Plus, a great deal of information is now almost immediately available to determine what will resonate with a target market. But that doesn’t directly equate to thought leadership or credibility. “Because the data said so” lacks the human insights that people look to thought leaders for.  Thought leadership is subjective and is therefore a “soft skill” intangible that must be developed and, frankly, earned through the consistent dissemination of high-quality, eventually proven insights.

You can, however, become a thought leader. It’s (not so) easy if you try.

Becoming a thought leader requires a dedicated, consistent effort over time. But the sooner you make a start, the sooner you’ll make a difference.

Start by precisely defining your area of expertise and study it religiously. Your deep understanding and individual interpretation will be what differentiates you from all the others studying that field.

You do this by being a perpetual student. Staying across the latest trends, the newest research, and the most interesting developments in your field – some of which you may have introduced – will establish respect for you as an expert. Try never to miss a conference, webinar, or workshop and, ideally, expand your knowledge. Additionally, seize the opportunity to share your vision.

Use your presumably unique insights to identify areas no one is talking about but should be. Your fresh perspective, which should, whenever practical, include being provocative – even counter to the prevailing trends – will make you a sought-after speaker or panelist.

Once you get a position behind a podium or a seat on the dais, illustrate your expertise with equally professionally prepared visuals. Even the best articles, blog posts, videos, podcasts, or whitepaper presentations diminish by amateurish supporting material. If you want individuals and organizations to perceive you as an expert, look like one.

The road most traveled

The thought leadership journey is an ongoing and highly rewarding pursuit, but it requires dedication and genuine passion. Augmenting those personal skills with an equally professional agency to help capitalize on the many formats and platforms available for reputation and influence building and shorten that journey and make it even more enjoyable. But it will still require patience and persistence.

Additionally, it takes communicating deeper levels of understanding. These will set you and your organization apart.

Featured Image Credit: Unsplash; Thank you!

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Authenticity is a crucial element in successful influencer marketing. Social media users crave real connections and relatable content, and transparency and authenticity are key to fostering trust between influencers and their audiences. According to a study, 94% of marketers believe that authenticity is important in influencer marketing.

However, AI photo-retouching and enhancing tools can undermine this authenticity by creating a disparity between influencers’ online personas and their true selves. When influencers use these tools to present an idealized and misleading image, it can lower audience trust and negatively impact their relationship with followers.

The use of AI photo-editing tools raises serious ethical implications. When influencers use retouching and filtering tools to alter their appearance, they contribute to the pressure for an unrealistic standard of beauty. This can create a culture of comparison and inadequacy, leading to body-image anxieties and lower self-confidence among both influencers and their followers.

The promotion of unrealistic beauty standards through edited images can have far-reaching effects on individuals’ psychological well-being. Studies have shown that exposure to manipulated images can lead to increased objectification and physical appearance comparisons, which can negatively impact mental health.

Influencers who heavily rely on AI photo-retouching tools need to be aware of potential legal challenges. Advertising regulations and consumer protection laws are increasingly demanding transparency and honesty in promotional content. Failing to disclose the use of retouching tools or presenting an altered appearance may result in accusations of false advertising and misleading consumers, leading to potential legal consequences.

Several countries have already taken steps to address these issues. For example, Norway has passed changes to its Marketing Act, requiring the disclosure of retouched or manipulated advertising that deviates from reality in terms of body shape, size, and skin. France has gone even further, legally defining what a commercial influencer is and imposing restrictions on promoting cosmetic surgeries, online betting, and financial products.

Brands need to be cautious when working with influencers who use AI photo-editing tools. The trust and credibility of both the influencer and the brand can be at stake if it is revealed that edited images have been used to promote products or services. This can lead to consumer backlash, negative publicity, and a decline in sales and brand reputation.

One notable example is Victoria’s Secret, which faced criticism for photoshopping their models. The company’s stagnant brand image and the loss of consumer trust resulted in the closure of a significant number of its stores. Brands must ensure that their influencers are responsible and transparent in their marketing practices to avoid similar repercussions.

As AI continues to shape the digital landscape, influencers must strike a balance between leveraging its capabilities for creative expression and ensuring ethical practices. Transparency, authenticity, and genuine connections with their audience should be prioritized. By fostering stronger relationships and establishing trust, influencers can thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of social media and influencer marketing.

The use of AI photo-editing tools in influencer marketing offers convenience and enhancement possibilities. However, influencers and brands must be aware of the ethical and legal considerations associated with these tools. Authenticity, transparency, and responsible marketing practices are vital for maintaining trust with audiences and avoiding potential legal consequences. As the marketing industry continues to evolve, finding the right balance between AI capabilities and ethical practices will be crucial for long-term success.

FAQ

Q: Are AI photo-editing tools widely used in influencer marketing? A: Yes, AI photo-editing tools are increasingly popular among influencers as they offer the ability to quickly and easily enhance their images.

Q: What are the ethical concerns associated with AI photo-editing tools? A: The use of AI photo-editing tools can contribute to unrealistic beauty standards, leading to body-image anxieties and lower self-confidence among influencers and their followers.

Q: What are the potential legal ramifications for influencers who use AI photo-editing tools? A: Influencers who fail to disclose the use of retouching tools or present an altered appearance may face accusations of false advertising and misleading consumers, potentially leading to legal consequences.

Q: How can brands ensure trust and credibility when working with influencers? A: Brands should carefully vet influencers and ensure they are transparent and responsible in their marketing practices. Building authentic relationships with influencers can help maintain trust with audiences.

Q: How can influencers balance AI capabilities with ethical practices? A: Influencers should prioritize transparency, authenticity, and genuine connections with their audience. By doing so, they can leverage AI capabilities while maintaining ethical marketing practices.

First reported by Forbes.

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The list of departing executives includes Chief Marketing Officer Shalini Raghavan, whose role will now be overseen directly by Nykaa’s founder and CEO, Falguni Nayar. This move highlights the criticality of the marketing function and Nayar’s commitment to ensuring its success. In addition to Raghavan, other notable departures include Kingshuk Basu, a senior vice president (VP) for retail; Sumant Kasliwal, senior VP in the fashion unit; Aditya Sandhu from the business-to-business sales unit; VP Sachin Kataria from the e-commerce business; and Shantanu Prakash, VP for marketing and communications.

When asked about the reasons behind these departures, Nykaa stated that leadership roles are being augmented to realign strategies, rationalize costs, and address the growing complexity of the business. However, they did not provide specific details on why these executives chose to leave the company.

Nykaa, known for offering a wide range of beauty products both online and in physical stores, finds itself in a highly competitive market. Tata Group and Reliance, two prominent players in the industry, have been aggressively expanding their presence, further intensifying the competition. As Nykaa navigates this landscape, the company faces the challenge of retaining its market share and staying ahead of its rivals.

The recent departures of key executives at Nykaa raise questions about the company’s stability and strategic direction. The loss of experienced leaders in critical areas such as marketing, retail, fashion, and communications could potentially impact Nykaa’s ability to innovate and adapt to the evolving demands of the market.

To address these challenges, Nykaa has made organizational changes, including the appointment of Shailendra Singh as the business head for physical retail – beauty. This move indicates the company’s commitment to strengthening its retail presence and maintaining its competitive edge.

Nykaa’s parent company, FSN E-Commerce Ventures, has witnessed a decline in its stock price, with shares falling nearly 60% from their listing price in November 2021. The company reported a 71.8% drop in net profit for the January-March 2023 quarter, but also recorded an almost 50% rise in pre-tax profit. Despite the recent challenges, Nykaa remains a significant player in the market, with a strong customer base and a robust online presence.

As Nykaa grapples with the departures of key executives, the company will need to focus on rebuilding its leadership team and ensuring a smooth transition. The strategic realignment and cost rationalization mentioned by the company indicate its determination to overcome these challenges and continue its growth trajectory.

In a rapidly evolving beauty industry, Nykaa will need to remain agile and innovative to stay ahead of its competitors. By leveraging its strong brand presence and expanding its product offerings, Nykaa can continue to capture market share and cater to the evolving needs of its customers.

FAQs

Q: How will the departure of key executives impact Nykaa’s marketing strategies?

A: The departure of Chief Marketing Officer Shalini Raghavan and other key marketing executives raises concerns about Nykaa’s marketing strategies. However, with founder and CEO Falguni Nayar taking direct oversight of the marketing function, the company aims to ensure continuity and effectiveness in its marketing efforts.

Q: What steps is Nykaa taking to address the challenges posed by increasing competition?

A: Nykaa has made organizational changes and appointed Shailendra Singh as the business head for physical retail – beauty. This move demonstrates the company’s commitment to strengthening its retail presence and staying competitive in the market.

Q: How has Nykaa’s financial performance been affected by recent developments?

A: Nykaa’s parent company, FSN E-Commerce Ventures, has experienced a decline in its stock price, with shares falling nearly 60% from their listing price. The company reported a significant drop in net profit for the January-March 2023 quarter but also recorded a rise in pre-tax profit, indicating a mixed financial performance.

Q: What is Nykaa’s strategy for the future?

A: Nykaa aims to rebuild its leadership team, address organizational challenges, and continue its growth trajectory. By remaining agile, innovative, and customer-centric, Nykaa plans to stay ahead of its competitors and capture a larger share of the rapidly expanding beauty market.

First reported by REUTERS.

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According to Adzuna data cited by CNBC, the demand for AI skills in the United States job market is on the rise. As of June, there were nearly 170,000 open AI-related positions, with more than 3,500 specifically requiring skills in generative AI. This data highlights the growing importance of AI expertise in the marketing industry.

However, despite the increasing demand for AI skills in marketing, the appointment of a dedicated generative AI-specific role is not yet widespread. Companies and marketing agencies are still exploring the possibilities and implications of integrating generative AI into their strategies. Many traditional advertisers are not convinced that a specialized role is necessary at this stage, as the technology is still in its early stages.

While some companies may dismiss the need for a generative AI-specific role currently, industry experts believe that there will be a need for a leader to connect the dots in the future. Oleg Korenfeld, the Chief Technology Officer at CMI Media Group, acknowledges that generative AI is still an amorphous field with numerous applications. However, he suggests that as the technology advances, companies will require a dedicated leader to guide their generative AI strategies.

The appointment of a generative AI strategy leader would involve overseeing the integration of generative AI into marketing campaigns, identifying opportunities for its implementation, and ensuring its alignment with overall business objectives. This role would require a deep understanding of both marketing principles and AI technologies, as well as the ability to navigate the complexities of this emerging field.

Despite the potential benefits of having a generative AI strategy leader, some industry experts argue that it may be premature to create such a position. Keith Johnston, the VP and Group Director at Forrester Research, believes that the time is not yet right for appointing generative AI-specific roles. He suggests that companies should focus on understanding the technology and its implications before designating a dedicated position.

Nick Coronges, the Executive VP and Global Chief Technology Officer at R/GA, shares a similar sentiment. While some of R/GA’s clients are considering the idea of a generative AI-specific role, there are no formal plans in place at the agency to create such a position. Coronges believes that carving out a dedicated title for generative AI could be premature and counterproductive to early efforts in exploring the technology’s potential.

Although some companies and agencies may not be ready to adopt a generative AI-specific role, they are still embracing the strategic possibilities of AI in their marketing efforts. Alex Steer, the Global Chief Data Officer at Wunderman Thompson, notes that brands and agencies are moving people into new roles that involve leading generative AI strategies, even if the title does not explicitly reference the technology.

By refraining from using the term “generative AI” in job titles, companies can avoid pigeonholing their use of AI solely to the generative subset. Instead, they opt for broader titles and remits that encompass a wider range of AI applications in marketing. This approach allows flexibility and promotes the exploration of various AI technologies without being limited to a specific niche.

While the role of a chief AI officer is relatively new and more prevalent in niche tech and engineering companies, it sparks discussions about its potential value within marketing agencies. The appointment of a chief AI officer signifies a strategic investment in AI expertise and leadership to drive innovation and competitive advantage.

However, there are challenges associated with appointing a chief AI officer. The fast-paced nature of AI advancements requires the chief AI officer to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies continually. They must also navigate the ethical considerations and potential risks associated with AI, such as data privacy concerns and algorithmic biases.

Despite these challenges, the role of a chief AI officer exemplifies the increasing recognition of AI as a transformative force in marketing. As AI continues to evolve, it will become crucial for companies to have dedicated leaders who can navigate the complexities of this technology and leverage its potential effectively.

As the demand for AI skills in marketing continues to grow, it is clear that AI will play a significant role in shaping the future of the industry. While a generative AI-specific role may not be prevalent yet, companies and agencies are already embracing AI strategies and integrating AI expertise into their marketing teams.

The key to success lies in understanding the potential of AI and how it can be applied strategically to achieve marketing objectives. Whether it’s through the appointment of a generative AI strategy leader, the expansion of AI-focused roles, or the creation of a chief AI officer position, organizations must adapt to the changing landscape of marketing and leverage AI to stay competitive.

As AI technology continues to advance, marketing professionals must embrace lifelong learning to stay at the forefront of industry trends. By continuously upskilling and expanding their knowledge of AI, marketers can position themselves as valuable assets in an increasingly AI-driven marketing landscape.

The integration of AI into marketing strategies is an exciting and transformative development. While the appointment of a dedicated generative AI-specific role may still be a topic of debate, the demand for AI skills in marketing is undeniable. As companies and agencies explore the possibilities of AI and embrace its strategic potential, the future of AI jobs in marketing will undoubtedly be characterized by innovation and adaptability.

To thrive in this evolving landscape, marketers must stay informed about the latest AI trends, upskill themselves in AI technologies, and be open to embracing new AI-focused roles. By doing so, they can leverage AI to drive marketing success, deliver personalized experiences to consumers, and stay ahead of the competition in the ever-evolving digital era.

FAQs

Q: What is generative AI?
A: Generative AI refers to a subset of artificial intelligence that focuses on creating new and original content, such as images, text, or music. It involves training models on large datasets to generate unique outputs that mimic human creativity.

Q: Why is AI important in marketing?
A: AI offers numerous benefits in marketing, including improved personalization, more efficient data analysis, enhanced customer experiences, and automation of repetitive tasks. By leveraging AI, marketers can gain valuable insights, optimize campaigns, and deliver targeted messages to the right audience at the right time.

Q: What are the challenges of integrating AI into marketing strategies?
A: Some challenges of integrating AI into marketing strategies include ensuring data privacy and security, addressing algorithmic biases, managing ethical considerations, and keeping up with the rapid advancements in AI technology. It is essential to strike a balance between leveraging the benefits of AI and addressing these challenges effectively.

Q: How can marketers prepare for the future of AI in marketing?
A: To prepare for the future of AI in marketing, marketers should invest in continuous learning and upskilling in AI technologies. They should stay informed about the latest trends and advancements in AI, explore AI-focused roles within their organizations, and actively seek opportunities to apply AI strategies to achieve marketing objectives.

Q: What is the role of a chief AI officer?
A: A chief AI officer is a leadership role responsible for overseeing the integration and strategic implementation of AI technologies within an organization. They drive AI strategy, manage research and development initiatives, and ensure alignment with business objectives. The chief AI officer plays a crucial role in leveraging AI to drive innovation and competitive advantage.

First reported by AdAge.

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In September 2021, during the height of the metaverse craze, Snoop Dogg partnered with The Sandbox, a Web3 outfit, to create his virtual empire. The Sandbox offered virtual parcels of land within the metaverse, and Snoop’s estate, known as the “Snoopverse,” became a highly anticipated attraction. Investors flocked to buy these virtual plots, with some paying exorbitant prices, hoping to be Snoop’s virtual neighbors.

However, the metaverse hype eventually subsided, and investors shifted their attention to other emerging technologies, such as generative A.I. As a result, the prices for metaverse land, including those near Snoop’s dominion, plummeted. The once highly coveted plots that were valued at thousands of dollars now suffered a massive 94% decrease in worth. A regular plot of land in the Snoopverse, which once cost $6,773, is now valued at a mere $424.

Not only did the value of the metaverse land decline, but Snoop Dogg’s personal NFT holdings also suffered significant losses. Data from DappRadar reveals that the rapper lost an average of 81% on numerous flailing NFT collections in his crypto wallet. A portfolio that was once worth $1.2 million is now valued at around $540,000.

While some investors may have lost hope, others like Ruben Santa, a senior UX designer at YouTube, remain optimistic about the potential of the metaverse. Santa, who purchased a parcel of land near Snoop’s estate, believes in the long-term vision of the platform. He sees beyond the current depreciated value of his investment, understanding that the metaverse has the potential to evolve into something greater.

The Sandbox, the platform on which the Snoopverse was built, plans to open up its platform to landowners later this year. This move could generate renewed excitement and interest in the metaverse. However, it is unlikely that we will witness another metaverse land grab in the near future. Nevertheless, Snoop’s fans can divert their support to his other business venture, Dr. Bombay Ice Cream, which offers a more affordable and tastier experience.

Snoop Dogg’s experience in the metaverse provides valuable insights into the risks and challenges associated with investing in emerging technologies. It serves as a reminder that the metaverse, like any other investment, comes with its share of uncertainties. However, it also highlights the importance of having a long-term vision and understanding the potential of a platform beyond its current value.

In other news, Binance and its CEO Changpeng Zhao have filed a motion to dismiss a lawsuit filed by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman’s Worldcoin is under scrutiny in Europe due to concerns about its biometric data collection practices. An $886 billion defense bill introduced in the Senate includes an amendment addressing crypto-anonymous transactions and illicit activity. Crypto.com has been designated as an official crypto service provider in the Netherlands, and FTX and Genesis have settled a dispute over an alleged $2 billion unpaid debt.

FAQs

1. What is the metaverse?

The metaverse is a virtual reality space where users can interact with each other and digital assets.

2. How did Snoop Dogg get involved in the metaverse?

Snoop Dogg partnered with The Sandbox to create his virtual empire, the “Snoopverse.”

3. What happened to the value of Snoop Dogg’s metaverse land?

The value of Snoop Dogg’s metaverse land, along with other metaverse properties, experienced a significant decline, with prices dropping by 94%.

4. How did Snoop Dogg’s NFT holdings perform?

Snoop Dogg’s NFT holdings suffered losses, with an average decrease of 81% in value.

5. Is there still potential in the metaverse?

Despite the challenges, some investors remain optimistic about the long-term potential of the metaverse.

Snoop Dogg’s venture into the metaverse with his virtual empire, the Snoopverse, faced challenges as the metaverse hype subsided. The decline in the value of metaverse land and Snoop’s NFT holdings serves as a reminder of the risks associated with investing in emerging technologies. However, the metaverse still holds promise for those who can see beyond its current setbacks. As the industry continues to evolve, it is essential to approach the metaverse with a long-term vision and an understanding of its potential beyond its current value.

First reported by Fortune.

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