by Roberts | Feb 12, 2025 | Marketing Mentor
National Apprenticeship Week is here, and rather than just celebrating, we want to shine a light on real-life experiences.
Meet Emily! Emily was once fresh out of school, jumping into her first apprenticeship role and navigating all the challenges that came with it. Today she discusses the start of her marketing career:
Question: What was it like leaving school and stepping into the working world?
Emily: “Leaving school and stepping into my first job was definitely daunting. There’s a lot of pressure to know exactly what you want to do, and the stigma that comes with not going to university made it even harder for me to navigate my options. I knew that I still wanted to learn but didn’t think the classroom structure would be right for me. I was ready to learn from others and gain hands-on experience. In marketing, that experience can be hard to come by in the early stages. Being creative and wanting to explore this further, marketing and graphic design really appealed to me, so I looked for apprenticeship companies that specialised in this area.”
Leaving school in 2020, Emily faced the added uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. With businesses struggling to take on apprentices, she was fortunate to have the team at EMA Training guide her into her first apprenticeship role.
Question: How did COVID impact your transition into an apprenticeship?
Emily: “Everything felt uncertain, and finding an apprenticeship at a time when businesses were struggling was tough. I was lucky to have the guidance and help from the team at EMA Training, but that still didn’t mean everything was plain sailing for me. It helped that EMA had fostered links with a wide selection of companies that could still operate under the COVID circumstances, but it did mean that I was going into a role as the only marketing person. I joined an estate agency, but this brought challenges as people were not moving house at that time. We were still operating, however, and had to rely on marketing to keep people aware of the business.”
Starting her first role as the sole marketing person, she was excited but also overwhelmed with so many questions. As an apprentice, you are learning on the job, but when there is no other marketer in the business, that knowledge is hard to find.
Question: What were the biggest challenges in your first marketing role?
Emily: “I was nervous to ask questions because I lacked confidence in what I had to say—I also didn’t want to sound stupid. I had to learn as I went in my day-to-day job, and sometimes, it felt like I was just winging it. It would have been great to bounce ideas off someone within the company. This is where the college days were vital for me, as I got to chat with others from all ages and at different life stages. There were moments of self-doubt, but I kept pushing forward. I found that I was good at branding and design, and as soon as my confidence grew, I was able to work on other areas of marketing, from social media to sales.”
Despite the support from her training provider, Emily found herself constantly searching for answers.
Question: Where did you turn for guidance?
Emily: “I would spend hours searching Google for the answers to my questions, but the problem was, there were a million different answers and no clear direction. I needed structured support, but I didn’t know where to find it. I wished I had a place where I could ask my questions in real time and get answers from people who has been where I was. I’m proud to be involved in the creation of The Marketing Mentor Hub and have helped to shape the tools, resources, and training to meet the challenges I faced head-on. If I can help one other marketer get the support they need, then I will be happy!”
Looking back, Emily knows that having structured support could have made a world of difference.
Question: If you could give advice to someone starting an apprenticeship, what would it be?
Emily: “I am so glad that I decided on the apprenticeship route. I have worked for three companies now, and with each job, I have been fortunate to grow my skills and learning. University wasn’t for me, but I know I made the right choice. If someone is looking for an apprenticeship, my advice would be to look for a training provider that focuses on marketing, don’t be shy, ask questions, and be curious to learn in your role. The apprenticeship route offers great opportunities to roll up your sleeves and try lots of different aspects so that you can quickly discover what you enjoy doing the most.
A place like The Marketing Mentor Hub would have been a game-changer for me. Having expert guidance, a supportive community, and resources all in one place? That would have given me the confidence to ask questions, make decisions, and grow faster. My advice is to seek out mentorship and never be afraid to ask for help.”
This Apprenticeship Week, we celebrate those taking alternative career paths and acknowledge the challenges they face. If you’re currently navigating your marketing career and need support, The Marketing Mentor Hub is here for you!
Sign up today or get in touch for more information.
by Roberts | Feb 3, 2025 | Hot Topics
So, it’s officially Feb… I know I can’t believe it as well! As we say goodbye to January, we say hi to some exciting new changes in marketing…
Let’s dive right in at the deep end – What’s been happening in marketing, the latest social media trends, and the key lessons we’ve picked up since the year began. Got your attention? Okay, let’s get started!
1) BlueSky! Is It A Thumbs Up👍 Or Down👎 For Your Marketing Strategy?
While Blue Sky isn’t exactly new to 2025, it’s been creating enough buzz to keep us intrigued and the Creationz team has been keeping a close eye on its progress and growth. Lately, we’ve had a lot of clients asking the big question: “Should we create an account or jump ship from Twitter?” So, here we are to give you our honest opinion:
While Twitter still boasts a significantly larger user base, BlueSky has managed to carve out its niche surprisingly quickly. Its clean interface and focus on community-building feel fresh and inviting, especially for users tired of Twitter’s increasingly chaotic updates. However, for now, we think it’s worth exploring, especially if you notice that your target audience is active and engaged on BlueSky, and you’re not getting much traction from Twitter. That said, it’s not replacing Twitter just yet, particularly if your business still benefits from having a presence there.
It’s a “watch this space” moment, and if the app continues to grow at this pace, it could become a serious contender for businesses.
2) TikTok Trouble: The Importance Of Not Putting All Your 🥚Eggs In One Basket
Unless you’ve been living under a Wi-Fi-free rock or simply don’t have it, you’ve probably heard the chatter about the TikTok ban in the US. While the platform is back alive and kicking, the debate earlier this month left creators and businesses in the UK wondering what the ripple effect would be on there business. And yes, this is a prime example of why you should never put all your eggs in one social media platforms basket.
Here’s the thing: TikTok has become more than just an app over the last couple of years (I don’t mind admitting that I spend a lot of my free time on it). It’s where trends are born, products go viral, and audiences connect with brands in a way that feels more fun and personal. So, if a ban happened in the U.S., it could absolutely shake things up globally—especially when it comes to how the platform evolves, what content is created and the engagement that you will see.
While TikTok is back up and running in the US (FOR NOW), this situation should be a reminder to never just put your trust in 1 social media platform. Diversify your marketing and stay adaptable because, let’s face it, marketing moves fast, and the TikTok train might not always be the unstoppable force it is now. Need help diversifying your social media strategy? We’ve got you!
3) Instagram’s Sizing Shake-Up: What You Need to Know 📢
If you’ve noticed your Instagram posts looking a little… different lately, you’re not alone! Although being rolled out slowly, Instagram has quietly changed its default post size from the classic square 1:1 (1080px x 1080px) to a taller 4:5 (1080px x 1350px).
So, what does this mean for you? Well, if you’re still designing posts in the old 1:1 format, they might not be displaying as expected—potentially affecting how your content grabs attention in the feed. The new 4:5 ratio takes up more screen space, meaning more visibility and a better chance of stopping the scroll.
If you create content for Instagram, now’s the time to tweak your strategy. Adjust your designs, test different layouts, and make the most of this change to boost engagement. As always, staying ahead of platform updates is key to keeping your content fresh!
💡My January Top Marketing Tip:
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up email! 🚀 Whether it’s a gentle reminder, a “just checking in” message, or a fresh offer, follow-up emails can significantly boost engagement and encourage conversations.
This month, I’ve quickly learned just how crucial it is to craft a message that’s both personalised and relevant to the recipient’s previous interaction with your initial email. One powerful way to do this is by using a feature called a snippet or tag (depending on the software you use), which allows you to dynamically insert the recipient’s name, tailoring each email to the individual.
For example: Hi {First_name} → Hi Emily.
Wrapping Up: What’s Next?
At Creationz, we’re all about helping businesses navigate these shifts and stay ahead of the trends with confidence. From test-driving new platforms like BlueSky to adapting to Instagram’s latest changes, we’re here to keep you informed!
Keep an eye out for next month’s edition, or better yet, subscribe to get all the latest insights straight to your inbox. 😉
Need a hand with your marketing in the meantime? Get in touch the team today to discuss your current strategy and how we can help you see the results you have been looking for!
by Roberts | Oct 7, 2024 | Marketing Planning
In today’s crowded digital marketplace, standing out from the competition is harder than ever. One of the most effective ways to differentiate your business is by building a strong, consistent brand voice—or in other words, developing a distinct personality and tone that reflects your brand.
But what exactly is this, and how do you create messaging that resonates with your audience?
In this blog, we’ll walk you through the key steps to develop consistent brand messaging that helps your business stand out. Whether you’re new to marketing or looking to refine your tone, these tips will guide you.
What is a Brand Voice?
Your brand voice refers to the unique personality your business communicates through messaging. It’s how you speak to your audience, both visually and verbally. Strong messaging is consistent and recognisable, allowing your audience to connect emotionally with your business.
Think about brands like Nike or Apple—their tone is clear, confident, and consistent across every platform. Whether it’s a social media post, a video ad, or website copy, their messaging stays true to their core identity.
Read more on how to create effective social media strategies here.
Why is Consistent Brand Messaging Important?
- Builds Trust: Consistent messaging builds trust with your audience. When they hear the same tone across different platforms, it strengthens your brand’s credibility.
- Increases Recognition: The more consistent your messaging, the easier it is for your audience to recognise your content without even seeing your logo.
- Differentiates Your Brand: A distinct personality sets your brand apart in competitive markets.
Steps to Build Strong Brand Messaging
1. Define Your Brand’s Core Values
Your messaging should be rooted in your company’s core values. Start by asking:
- What does your brand stand for?
- What are the key values that define your business?
- What kind of message do you want to communicate?
For example, if you’re a sustainable fashion brand, your messaging might focus on eco-friendliness and transparency.
2. Know Your Audience
Understanding who you’re speaking to is crucial. Define your audience by asking:
- What are their pain points?
- How do they communicate?
- What platforms do they use?
If your audience consists of young professionals, your tone might be casual yet professional. For parents, a friendly, supportive tone works better.
3. Decide on Your Tone
Your tone is the attitude conveyed through your messaging. Depending on your audience, it could be:
- Conversational and approachable
- Formal and authoritative
- Motivational and inspiring
Choose a tone that matches your audience and brand personality. In recent months, there has been a distinct move towards a more conversational tone with clients, especially for LinkedIn.
4. Create Brand Guidelines
Once you’ve established your tone, document it. A brand voice guide ensures consistency. It should include:
- Examples: Provide examples of your tone for different platforms.
- Do’s and Don’ts: Outline what to avoid in your messaging to keep it consistent.
- Key phrases: Identify any specific language your brand uses (e.g., Nike’s “Just Do It”).
- Consistency Across All Platforms
- Create a list of words you would never use – a powerful tool and sets clear guidelines and boundaries.
Ensure that your messaging stays consistent across all platforms—from social media to customer service and internal communications.
- On Social Media: Tailor your tone slightly for each platform (e.g., more casual on Instagram, professional on LinkedIn), but stay true to your brand’s core voice.
- In Customer Service: Maintain a consistent tone when handling support queries or complaints.
Want to learn more about content marketing? Check out our guide here.
Learn more about social media fundamentals in our blog Taking It Back To Basics With Your Social Media Marketing.
Final Thoughts: Your Brand Voice is Key to Success
A strong, consistent tone is a powerful tool that helps you stand out, build trust, and connect emotionally with your audience. Developing clear messaging takes time, but the rewards are well worth it.
Need Help Building Consistent Messaging?
If you’re ready to refine your messaging, reach out to us Creationz Marketing for expert guidance. We’re here to help you create a brand voice that resonates with your audience and supports your marketing goals.
by Roberts | Aug 9, 2024 | Social Media
Happy Friday, everyone and hello weekend! 👋
As we wind down the week and prepare for a well-deserved break, the Creationz team has been reflecting on what we have been working on this week. One of which is the importance of taking it back to basics, especially when it comes to your social media platforms.
Whether you’re a consistent poster with a big online following or just starting out, it’s crucial to get these core elements right. Let’s explore these fundamental aspects to ensure your social media is making the best impression possible:
🔹Craft an Impactful Bio🖊️ – Your bio is your brand’s first impression—think of it as your digital handshake. It’s often the first thing people see when they visit your profile, so make it count. Your bio should be clear, concise, and compelling. Ask yourself: Does it effectively communicate who you are and what you do?
🔹Choose the Perfect Profile Picture📸 – Your profile picture is more than just a photo; it’s a visual representation of your brand. It should be instantly recognisable and reflect your brand’s personality. Is your profile picture up-to-date and consistent with your current branding?
🔹Optimise Your Username🔠 – A memorable and relevant username can significantly impact your discoverability. It’s crucial that your username is easy to remember. Additionally, consistency across platforms is key. Having the same username on all your social media accounts helps users find and recognise you more easily.
🔹Consistency Across Platforms✅ – Following on from the above point, consistency is the backbone of a strong brand identity. Ensure that your branding—visuals, messaging, and tone—is consistent across all your social media channels. A unified look builds trust and enhances recognition.
🔹Utilise Linktrees🔗 – What’s a Linktree, you might ask? Linktrees are an excellent tool for managing multiple links in a single, easily accessible location. By using a Linktree, you can direct your audience to various destinations—whether it’s your website, blog, or other social media profiles—all from one link in your bio. This simplifies navigation for your followers and allows you to track which links are getting the most attention.
🔹Follow and Connect with Relevant Accounts🤝 – It’s not just about who follows you—who you follow matters too. By connecting with similar accounts, you stay updated on trends, gain inspiration, and build valuable relationships. Engaging with relevant profiles can enhance your credibility, lead to collaborations, and expand your network. Make it a point to follow and interact with accounts that align with your niche.
🔹Provide Clear Contact Information📲 – Make it easy for your audience to get in touch with you. Ensure your contact information is clearly visible on your profiles. Whether it’s an email address, phone number, or a contact form on your website, having clear and accessible contact details can improve customer engagement.
Need help aligning your social media presence?
The Creationz team is here to assist with expert advice and insights tailored to your brand. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for personalised guidance and support.
