Interview With Sadie (Growth Marketer)
Where were you born and raised? Also tell us something unique about yourself.
I was raised on a small Dutch Caribbean island with a population of 160,000. I learned to speak English by watching the cartoon network and Spanish by watching soap operas at my grandma's house.
What got you interested in marketing and what was your journey?
In my early career, I worked in the legal and finance industries, and while I enjoyed what I did, I always felt like something was missing. I had a burning desire to make a real impact and help businesses grow, but I wasn't sure how to do it. As Covid hit, I stumbled into a sales and marketing role, and it was like a lightbulb went off in my head.
I quickly realized that this was my true calling, and I started to immerse myself in the world of digital marketing. It wasn't always easy. There were times when I felt overwhelmed and unsure of myself, but I kept pushing forward because I knew this was my passion.
What do you skills and industry do you specialize in?
Right now, I'd say I'm in the "growth marketing" game, but honestly, I'm finding myself more into this niche area of data-driven creative strategy. I'm all about digging into the data and conducting a voice of customer research to really “get” what the customer is thinking / feeling, and then I use that to design creatives that hit the mark with the target audience.
What is your best soft skill?
Definitely adaptability for me. With all the buzz and concern about AI taking over and automating tasks like media buying, I sense a lot of fear in the industry. But I see it as an opportunity to evolve. Instead of getting stuck on what's being automated, I focus on the elements where I can add value like strategic thinking, emotional connection with audiences (and clients), and creative problem-solving.
What software and tools you use regularly?
Canva, Google Docs, ChatGPT, Foreplay.
What are your goals for the next year and into the future?
Currently, my sights are set on growing in the field of data-driven creative strategy. Over the next year, I plan to dive even deeper into consumer psychology and advanced analytics to uplevel and create more targeted and effective campaigns.
What has been the hardest thing you dealt with in your career path?
Uncertainty. Shifting from one field to the other is never easy, but worthwhile. Reading philosophical works like Meditations by Marcus Aurelius and the discourses of Seneca has been a game-changer for me. They've taught me the value of stoicism, helping me to embrace change as a constant and see every obstacle as an opportunity for growth.
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What is the biggest mistake you made that you want others to avoid?
Trying to do it all by yourself. My best move has been to work with a mentor. ( Cynthia Sandoval ). She helped me find my strengths and develop my weaknesses. So, don't try to do it all alone; getting some proper guidance from someone with experience can make a world of difference.
Who are your favorite people in the industry that you follow?
Sarah Levinger (for always dropping interesting gems on developing psychology based creatives), Dara Denney (for demystifying media buying and creative strategy).
Who has had the biggest influence on your career to date? Cynthia Sandoval (for believing in me before I was able to believe in myself and leveling up my game in growth marketing), Momoko Price (for helping me discover the power of voice of customer research).
What's has been your favorite course that you taken and why?
The product messaging course by Momoko Price has been an absolute game changer for me. Her approach to conducting a voice of customer research has been an absolute game changer in the quality of my work.
What would you tell yourself or someone who is just starting out in marketing?
Take the leap, find a mentor and dive into philosophy.
If the entire world was listening to you, what would you have to say?
Embrace change and never stop learning. Whether it's the fast pace of technology or the unpredictability of life, being adaptable and continuously educating yourself are your best bets for not just surviving, but thriving.
Where can we find you?