Gemma Angharad on Strategies for Staying Ahead
Gemma Angharad is the founder of Gemma Angharad and took some time out to speak with Rob Barratt from The Industry Leaders about how they stay ahead of the game in their industry
Can you introduce yourself and share a little about your background?
I am an award-winning Author and Marketing Mastermind providing business owners, Managing Directors and Sales & Marketing Executives with strategies and mentoring to create competitive advantage and growth. With over 20 years’ experience as a successful Sales & Marketing professional at board level for global corporations and small businesses alike, I have a passion for getting things done properly and giving my clients time to do what they need to elsewhere. I believe that every business deserves superior marketing support, regardless of size, industry or budget. I have seen businesses waste thousands of pounds and months of time, on subpar marketing support that actually halts growth for the businesses and I am now determined to help. “I got so frustrated seeing business owners briefing many agencies and freelancers, paying too many invoices for too high a price, for atrocious results. That’s my driver every day – to save business owners and Managing Directors time, money and headaches!” An author of my own step by step marketing guide for business owners, I am on a mission to ensure those who seek it, have access to the same expertise and direction as large corporates, I am focused on supporting business owners to have a grounded but flexible strategic marketing plan, in a bid to help reduce the number of businesses that fail in their mission to grow every day. Blending my Cognitive Behaviour Therapy training with Sales Psychology and Strategic Marketing Qualifications, my insights into customer behaviours are multi-dimensional. I am a CIM mentor and part of the Welsh Government Accelerated Growth Programme helping businesses grow through their marketing efforts with stability as well as being a STEM ambassador and advocate for men and women in manufacturing.
As a forward-thinking professional, how do you identify ways to stay ahead in your industry?
A force to be reckoned with, I have always challenged the status quo, progressing to regularly advising board level teams as a young graduate and making an impact in STEM industries. Having worked alongside the likes of Boots, Siemens and Specsavers I am self employed on a mission to change the marketing industry. I am known as a ‘business sniper’, taking away unwanted areas of the business that are zapping clients’ energy and profitability so they can evolve faster, with better ROI and less stress and confusion. Working in both public and private sector businesses, B2B & B2C, on a local and global scale, my relentless attitude to building businesses with indestructible foundations and structures for growth longer term has ensured I am one of the best in the business. I am passionate about mentoring others and love the impact I can make, especially when working with young people struggling with confidence, supporting them to make their mark.
How often do you reassess your competitive landscape and, as I know you're very busy, I'd love for you to share any tips you have on carving out the time to do this?
As a marketing consultant, it is important to reassess the competitive landscape regularly. This helps you stay ahead of the game in your industry. The frequency of reassessment depends on the industry and the company’s goals. However, it is recommended that you reassess at least once a year - this is what I advise my clients. To find the time to do this, you can schedule it into your calendar as a recurring event. You can also delegate this task to someone else in your team or outsource it to a third-party company that specialises in competitive analysis. You have to focus on outcomes, that's what I do and work out WHY you are researching the competition and what does it mean for your customers and clients.
What have been the most significant challenges you've faced when striving to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world, and how have you overcome them?
As a marketing consultant, one of the most significant challenges faced when striving to stay ahead in a rapidly changing world is keeping up with the latest trends and technologies. This can be difficult because new technologies and trends are constantly emerging, and it can be challenging to determine which ones are worth investing time and resources into. To overcome this challenge, I find, it is important to stay informed about the latest trends and technologies by attending industry conferences, reading industry publications and networking with other professionals in the field. It is also important to be open-minded and willing to try new things.
Can you pinpoint a defining moment or experience where your innovative strategies led to success or a competitive advantage in your business or career?
I've had so many to be honest, it's why I develop clear, bespoke strategies for business clients now as part of my full offering. One defining moment was when I developed a new marketing strategy for a client that involved using social media influencers to promote their product. This was a relatively new concept at the time, and it helped the client gain a competitive advantage in their industry. The campaign was a huge success and resulted in a significant increase in sales for the client.
In your opinion, what are the key ingredients of an effective strategy for staying ahead in 2023?
In my opinion, the key ingredients of an effective strategy for staying ahead in 2023 are: Understanding the target audience: It is important to understand the target audience and their needs. This can be done by conducting market research and analysing customer data. Keeping up with the latest trends and technologies: It is important to stay informed about the latest trends and technologies by attending industry conferences, reading industry publications, and networking with other professionals in the field. Developing a strong brand identity: A strong brand identity can help differentiate your business from competitors. This can be achieved by developing a unique brand voice, visual identity, and messaging. Creating engaging content: Engaging content can help attract and retain customers. This can be achieved by creating content that is informative, entertaining, and visually appealing. Measuring success: It is important to measure the success of your marketing efforts to determine what is working and what needs improvement. This can be done by tracking key performance indicators (KPIs) such as website traffic, social media engagement, and sale.
In your opinion, what role does continuous learning and personal development play in staying ahead, and how do you incorporate these practices into your own professional journey?
In my opinion, continuous learning and personal development play a crucial role in staying ahead in any industry. The world is constantly changing, and it is important to stay informed about the latest trends and technologies by attending industry conferences, reading industry publications, and networking with other professionals in the field. Continuous learning can help you develop new skills and knowledge that can help you stay ahead of the competition. It can also help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in your industry. Incorporating these practices into your own professional journey can be done by attending conferences, taking courses or workshops, reading industry publications, and networking with other professionals in the field. It is also important to set goals for yourself and track your progress over time.
Looking ahead, what emerging trends or technologies do you believe will have the most significant impact on businesses or ambitious professionals, and how are you preparing to leverage them for future success?
In my opinion, some of the emerging trends or technologies that will have the most significant impact on businesses or ambitious professionals in 2023 are: Artificial intelligence (AI): AI is already transforming many industries, and it is expected to continue to do so in the coming years. AI can help businesses automate processes, improve customer service and gain insights into customer behaviour. Augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR): AR and VR technologies are becoming more advanced and accessible, and they have the potential to revolutionise many industries. For example, AR can be used to create immersive shopping experiences for customers. Blockchain: Blockchain technology has the potential to transform many industries by providing secure and transparent transactions. It can be used for everything from supply chain management to voting systems. Internet of Things (IoT): IoT devices are becoming more common in homes and businesses, and they have the potential to transform many industries. IoT devices can be used for everything from home automation to industrial monitoring. Sustainability: Sustainability is becoming increasingly important for businesses as consumers become more environmentally conscious. Businesses that prioritise sustainability will be better positioned for success in the future. To prepare for these emerging trends and technologies, it is important to stay informed about the latest developments by attending industry conferences, reading industry publications, and networking with other professionals in the field. It is also important to be open-minded and willing to try new things.
