Sethunya Masebe, MBA, PRINCE2’s Post

I have recently fallen in love with Lattafa Perfumes Industries . I placed an order for one of their products through my friend, Ibukunoluwa Tomilayo O., who owns a retail brand for exquisite perfumes. I've had my fair share of disappointments with delivery services in Nigeria—promises unkept, late deliveries, items missing or even stolen. 𝐓𝐫𝐮𝐬𝐭 is the last thing I would offer a delivery man. My friend told me the perfume would arrive after COB, which could cause delays for me. Normally, I wouldn’t worry much if I were assured that the delivery man's promise of 4:30 p.m. would indeed be 4:30 p.m. Seeing the concern on my face, as I planned to leave the office by 6 p.m., she reassured me by saying, “𝑸𝒖𝒆𝒆𝒏, 𝒅𝒐𝒏’𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒓𝒓𝒚, 𝒉𝒆’𝒔 𝒎𝒚 𝒅𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒗𝒆𝒓𝒚 𝒎𝒂𝒏 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒓𝒆𝒍𝒊𝒂𝒃𝒍𝒆.” I believed her. Not just because she’s my friend, but because of that singular 𝐚𝐝𝐣𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞—𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞. Lo and behold, the delivery man arrived at exactly 4:27 p.m. This inspired my reflection today. Dear professional, dear high-flyer,𝐡𝐨𝐰 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮? Reliability is a 𝐬𝐨𝐟𝐭 𝐬𝐤𝐢𝐥𝐥 that might not be immediately apparent in an interview, but once you join an organization, can you be trusted with responsibilities? Can you be trusted to meet deadlines and deliver excellent results? As a young professional overseeing multiple responsiblities, I can confidently say that reliability has been one of the key factors driving my growth and impact. Needless to say, reliability makes you not just dependable but also attractive in the professional world.   As always,    𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐐𝐮𝐞𝐞𝐧 💡.  𝐂-𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 𝐁𝐫𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐠𝐢𝐬𝐭    #brand #reliability #professionqal #highflyer #perfumes #marketing #content #knowlegesharing #linkedin      Connect for more career development tips. 📌💜  Queen Olugbuyiro 📌💜

After experiencing a stunning sunrise over the Annapurna Mountain Range, we began our journey towards Kathmandu by staying overnight at Sarankgot.  Not only did I stay in a hotel with a spectacular view of Fewa Lake, but I also had the opportunity to learn from this Nepali Gentleman – Balram Kairola.   As I stepped into his shop, a wave of nostalgia washed over me. It was like stepping back to the Bahrain of my childhood, with its quaint, family-run shops. I couldn't resist buying three chocolate bars and striking up a conversation with the man behind the counter. Balram Kairola, the owner, had been running this shop for over 30 years after a brief stint with a company. His reason for the switch was simple yet profound: “Here is better. I am my own boss.”   Curiosity got the better of me, and I couldn't resist asking him, “If you could give three pieces of advice to young entrepreneurs, what would they be like?”   He answered eloquently and with conviction:   1) Learn the language of your customers: Your customers will be delighted if you speak their language.  I had this experience because I could easily communicate with Balram.  He was fluent in English.   2) Only serve high quality products/services: If you want returning customers (repeat business), you should only buy and sell high-quality products.  If not, your customers will find another place to do business with.   3) Explain your pricing changes: Whenever his customers comment on the increasing prices of his products, he explains to them that it was not his intention to do so. Still, most of his products are imported and subject to foreign exchange price fluctuations.   There you have it. If you want to start a lasting business, follow Balram-ji's advice!   #customers #sales #service #CX #nepal #story #speaker #author #advisor

Hospitality professionals, let's be real - dealing with irritating guests and colleagues can be like navigating Lagos traffic! But, as we say , "no worry, na small challenge" Here's how I handle it: Take a deep breath and remember, "customer is king" (even when they're acting like a monarch from a rival kingdom). Smile and think, "this too shall pass" (like Lagos rain). Focus on finding solutions, not arguments (after all, "no be fight we dey fight"). Practice empathy and active listening (even when it feels like "oyinbo pepper" in my ear). And when all else fails, I remind myself that "every disappointment is a blessing in disguise" (like finding a parking spot at Ikeja City Mall). By looking on the bright side and keeping a sense of humor, we can turn even the most frustrating situations into opportunities for growth and excellent customer service! #Hospitality #UltimateSophistication #CustomerService #PositiveVibes #ProblemSolving #Empathy #ActiveListening #GrowthMindset

🛒Building Bridges in the FMCG Landscape of Botswana 🛒 As a Key Accounts Manager in the fast-paced FMCG industry, I’m constantly reminded of the vital role that strong, collaborative relationships play in our success. Working with key clients across Botswana, I’ve had the privilege of not only driving sales but also understanding the unique needs of our customers and their consumers. 💡 Key Takeaways from My Journey: 1. Understanding the Market: Each region has its nuances. Being attuned to local preferences and trends is crucial in tailoring our offerings. 2. Building Trust: Relationships built on trust lead to long-term partnerships. Regular communication and transparency are the cornerstones of our interactions. 3. Adaptability: The FMCG landscape is ever-evolving. Staying agile and open to change enables us to meet challenges head-on and seize new opportunities. #FMCG #KeyAccounts #CustomerRelationships #Botswana #BusinessGrowth #SalesStrategy #Networking

The cost of a bottle of water at the local retail outlet could be N200; same bottle of water is sold at airport lounge for N1,000; in a stared hotel at N2,000 and on a flight, it could be as high as N5,000 depending. It’s the same water but different price! I use to sell a technology solution and amazingly, the solution is sold for not less than N5M in Lagos but up-north Nigeria, I struggle to sell if for N3M. Same solution but different prices! Why? It is not about the water or the solution. It is about the location. The location of a product can significantly impact its pricing. The price changes based on the setting and not the water or the solution itself. The value of a product is determined by the environment or the location. Bringing it back to you reading this. If people do not appreciate your value where you are, you probably need to change your location. It is not because you are not worth that value but because you may be in a wrong location. It is possible you are surrounded by people who do not place value on you or your work or they do not appreciate what you bring to the table. It does not necessarily mean your value is less. It just mean that you need to locate the right place that will speak out your value and worth. So the next time you feel under-priced or under-estimated, don’t question your value. Check the location you are. 1. Location matters: The same product or service can have different values in different locations. 2. Perceived value: The value of a product or service is determined by the environment or location of the consumer. 3. Self-worth: Do not question your value if you feel under-priced or under-estimated; instead, consider whether you are in the right location. 4. Surround yourself with people who appreciate you: Being around people who recognize your value can boost your confidence and self-worth.

The end of Ramadan can have several implications for the B2B industry, particularly in regions with significant Muslim populations or where the observance of Ramadan is culturally important. ↘️ Slower Business: During Ramadan, fasting and changes in routines can slow down decision-making and business activities. This might affect negotiations, contracts, and project work in B2B. 🕖 Shifted Hours: Businesses in Ramadan-observing regions may change working hours for fasting employees. It will affect communication between B2B companies and their clients, especially if there are time differences. 🤔 Delayed Decisions: Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, which can delay decision-making in B2B companies. This delay can affect sales and project timelines. On the flip side, however, 📱 Increased Online Communication: B2B firms can use online tools to stay connected during Ramadan. Virtual meetings and collaborative tools can help maintain business interactions despite Ramadan challenges. While many businesses will still flourish during the holy month, companies should acknowledge and honor the shorter working hours. They should adapt their operations and decision-making to align with strategies that aim to strengthen relationships with their employees, clients, and partners. Happy Eid Al Fitr! 🕌🌙 #EidAlFitr #B2B

Dear friends, I recently had a consulting session with one of the prestigious store chains in Dubai. At the end of the session, client asked me, “Why are you so expensive? We have excellent store managers from Pakistan working for us for years on much lower salaries.” This made me realize that, as a community, we might be setting low standards for ourselves. We are, in many ways, responsible for undervaluing our own worth. Do not underestimate yourselves. You are doing incredible work. Know your value and be confident in your skills. If you feel stuck or lack certain knowledge, seek help. Use resources available online, pay for expert advice, take consultations, or invest in premium courses to upskill. I understand that Pakistan is facing economic challenges, and it’s tempting to accept any opportunity that comes your way. But trust me, businesses have the budget to pay you what you’re worth—you just need to confidently communicate your value and deliver quality work. Avoid overcommitting and underpricing yourself. More power to all of you! It always fills me with pride to hear positive feedback about our community’s contributions at every level. Best of luck 🤞

My journey and experiences with business owners over the years, has exposed me to the intricacies of understanding your unique selling proposition and selling to the right audience. In the bustling city of Abuja, amidst towering government buildings and luxury hotels, there was a small, elegant boutique hotel called "Haven Suites and style hub." (Not clients name) Despite its prime location and beautifully designed interiors, they were struggling to fill its rooms. Competing against the big names in hospitality, the hotel was often overlooked by travelers who were drawn to the well-known chains. The owner, Mrs. A, was passionate about her hotel, but she was at a loss on how to make it stand out. As a marketer familiar with Abuja's unique market, I saw an opportunity to reposition the hotel not as just another place to stay, but as a personalized experience that the larger hotels couldn’t offer. We began by identifying the core strengths of the hotel: its intimate setting, exceptional service, and the authentic Nigerian experience it provided, something the big chains couldn’t replicate. The first step was to target the right audience—travelers looking for more than just a room, but an experience. We revamped the hotel’s online presence, highlighting its unique offerings such as personalized city tours of Abuja, curated by locals, and private dining experiences featuring traditional Nigerian cuisine. We also emphasized the hotel’s commitment to showcasing Nigerian culture, from the art on the walls to the local fabrics used in the decor. To create buzz, we launched a "Stay Like a Local" campaign, where guests could immerse themselves in the vibrant culture of Abuja, from visiting local markets to attending cultural events. We partnered with influencers who had a strong following among travelers and food enthusiasts to share their experiences at Haven Suites and Style Hub, using the hashtag #DiscoverAbujaWithHaven. I must tell you, it wasnt an easy experience but... Within a few months, the impact was clear. Bookings increased, especially from international visitors who were eager to experience the authentic side of Abuja. The hotel’s personalized approach became its hallmark, earning it rave reviews and a loyal customer base. Mrs. A’s hotel was no longer just another accommodation option—it was a destination in itself, celebrated for its unique charm and cultural authenticity. #Marketing #DigitalMarketing #ContentMarketing #SocialMediaMarketing #Branding #SEO #MarketingStrategy #EmailMarketing #Advertising #MarketingTips

The Essence of Client Relationships: Insights from Hard Rock Cafe Lagos Today marks 2 months+ since I transitioned from my sales and marketing role at Hard Rock Cafe Lagos, into my fractional Business Development roles at Futuresoft (Future Software Resources Ltd) and PRAXTION, and one skill I have found easily transferred is client management. So, I want to share some insights on nurturing long-term client relationships, drawing from my own experiences where service, empathy, and trust intertwine to create unforgettable impressions. At Hard Rock Cafe Lagos, we didn't just serve meals; we served experiences. Our team's dedication to world-class hospitality set the stage for lasting client connections. Here's how we did it: 🌟 Service Quality: Every interaction was an opportunity to showcase our commitment to excellence. From the full-smile greeting at the door to the final farewell, we ensured each moment was a positive reflection of our brand. 🌟 Empathy in Timing and Positioning: Understanding the client's mood was crucial. A hungry guest might not appreciate a conversation, while a jovial, tipsy one might engage warmly but forget the interaction later. This taught us the importance of empathetic positioning—knowing when to engage and when to provide space. 🌟 Building Trust as a Friend/Advisor: Professional boundaries are vital, but so is being approachable. I recall a client visiting from the UK who was eager to experience more of Lagos. After a shared interest in the #AFCON games sparked a conversation, which led to deeper insights on her "loneliness" in Lagos, I offered to accompany her to the beach, which turned into a delightful exploration of local attractions. Key Takeaways for Client Managers: 1. First Impressions Are Lasting: Ensure every interaction counts. 2. Empathy Is Strategic: Always gauge the client's mood and respond appropriately. 3. Build Trust Beyond Transactions: Be a friend within professional limits. These strategies have not only helped in creating memorable experiences but also in building a foundation for relationships that last well beyond the initial interaction. This week I encourage you to carry these learnings forward and continue to make every client feel valued and understood. Have a great week ahead! 😀 #clientrelationships #client #businessdevelopment #professionalism #servicequality #Empathy #empatheticpositioning #Trust #friendship #clientmanagement #hardeockcafelagos #futuresoft #praxtion #business