Seizing the bountiful harvest of experience will always remain timely. Here’s an annual recap of my journey that began with DKSH in August 2022. Coming from a background in the B2B industry to the dynamic realm of FMCG, this new chapter has been a thrilling roller coaster ride.
DKSH, a distinguished Swiss distribution company, has long cultivated its expertise in Malaysia. My role in DKSH is as a local market brand advisor, planner, and key coordinator of selected international brands, with Tiger Balm Malaysia being my key portfolio.
In these 17 months, we have launched 1 NPD within 3 months, participated in 2 marathons, sponsored more than 5 organizations, ran 20 online campaigns, participated in 5 roadshows, advertised on billboards, television, and radio, changed 3 country managers, created more than 500 pieces of artwork design, pitched at least 10 new creative ideas, applied for 57 government applications for advertisement.
What have I learned in these 17 months:
1. Stay humble but hold onto principles.
The Chinese saying, “there is always a mountain after another,” emphasizes the importance of humility. Humility includes recognizing your limitations, listening to others, learning from mistakes, showing gratitude, and continuously improving.
2. The client is not always correct.
Don’t behave as a “yes man” even in the service industry. I uphold the principle of serving the company and industry, not any individual. Regardless of the industry, campaigns should not be run just for the sake of it.
3. Communication is key in every relationship.
This includes communication within the organization, towards principles, vendors, and any external parties. When either party refuses to communicate, expectations can’t be aligned, where leading to misunderstandings and conflicts.
4. Learn to swim in the rain as long as it doesn’t kill you.
Complaints, toxic environments, and poor culture happen in almost every organization as long as you are working with humans. It's important to realize that it's not about what a company can do for you but what you can do for yourself, and contribute to the organisation. When you recognize issues, don't think of running away but learn to fix them.
The above are based on my own experiences shared on LinkedIn. My fellow friends, colleagues, and LinkedIn followers don’t give up; keep swimming. May you all have a good year ahead!
#recap2023 #marketing #branding #lifeofmarketer #growthmindset
Neymar of Content Marketing
9moTwo of my favourite guys coming together 🚀🚀🚀