In this episode, Dave Blanchard and Chad Person discuss the evolution of marketing as businesses grow, particularly in the context of professional services. They explore the different phases of business growth, from discovery to profitability, and emphasize the importance of strategic planning and understanding market needs. Chad shares insights on how marketing strategies should adapt at each stage, the significance of validation, and the need for a shift from an inside-out to an outside-in approach. The conversation also highlights the role of marketing assistance for startups and the importance of unifying marketing and sales efforts to drive growth. In this conversation, Chad and Dave discuss the evolution of marketing in businesses, particularly in professional services. They explore the importance of building credibility, operationalizing marketing for growth, scaling beyond local markets, preparing for exit and valuation, and the need for a strategic approach to marketing. Chad emphasizes the significance of systems, leadership, and diversification in achieving sustainable growth and preparing for a successful exit.

Takeaways

• Marketing evolves as a business grows.
• Professional services firms often struggle with marketing maturity.
• The planning process is critical for startups.
• Inside-out vs. outside-in approaches to strategy.
• Strategy should precede planning in marketing.
• Validation of ideas is crucial before investing.
• Marketing needs to capture leads beyond word of mouth.
• Thought leadership is essential for content strategy.
• Referral relationships can significantly boost growth.
• Attracting traffic is vital for scaling businesses. Building credibility is essential for executing plans.
• Shifting from tactical to strategic marketing is crucial.
• Content should drive trust and revenue.
• Operationalizing marketing allows owners to focus on growth.
• A marketing leader is necessary for sustainable growth.
• Diversification helps expand wallet share among clients.
• Understanding buyer needs is key for service expansion.
• Investing in people and processes enhances business value.
• Branding should not solely rely on the founder.
• An outside-in approach improves marketing strategy.

Quote of the show:

“Validation is key before investing.”

Links

LinkedIn:

Chad Person: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-personcmo

Dave Blanchard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cognesis

Website:

Chad Person https://yorcmo.com/chad-person/   

Dave Blanchard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cognesis/

Spotify https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/fractional-pros-canada

Ways to Tune In

• Amazon Music –⁠ https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/6e4e178d-5197-4e02-a97a-56d43b60a449/fractional-pros-canada-podcast⁠
• YouTube – https://youtu.be/z9LkadKLF7g⁠
• Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/0F0J9sCNrr0cUSO3qkR844
• Creator: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/fractional-pros-canada

Fractional C-Suite Retreat is produced by Frost Media Group. Learn more at https://frostmediagroup.com