How can marketing help you stand out from others in the crowd?

My first ever multi-location marketing role was as a Public Relations & Marketing Coordinator for multisite Marriott locations in Kuwait City, Kuwait as part of the Middle East & Africa region. Hotels, travel and hospitality marketing communications is in my DNA, and so it was safe to say that I was looking forward to one of the first post-pandemic in-person talks organised by friends at the UK’s Hotel Marketing Association, now part of the Hospitality Professionals Association (HOSPA).

The theme of the evening was harnessing the full potential of video marketing and its impact on consumer audience engagement in hotels and hospitality. As a multibrand marketer often working in multiple markets internationally, I often find that video is an excellent way of getting your message and brand across as part of a multichannel marketing strategy.

On the flip side, this needs careful staging and resource, because the last thing you want your professional audience to remember is that shaky iPhone video uploaded on LinkedIn as part of your morning walk to the train station.

However, what stood out for me was the diversity of the marketing talent in the audience. These were marketing and communications professionals from the hotel and hospitality marketing industry who also have families, time pressures, and lengthy commutes. Their commitment to being present made me reflect on the importance of visibility in the industry.

Here are a few reflections from my interactions with the audience:

GET OUT: Hospitality and hotel marketing colleagues have incredible experiences and knowledge to share - which can be difficult to fully appreciate in the comments field of a webinar with 100 participants. If possible, try and support your industry in-person when time allows it.

STAND OUT: There are countless marketing professionals out there. What makes you different? Think about your industry or functional niche. Is it multisite marketing? Franchise marketing? Multibrand marketing? Think about using it as part of your introduction or as a conversation starter with someone new.

BELONG: Progressing through my career in international marketing and EMEA marketing without a diverse leader to look up to was not easy. As I belong to multiple ethnic backgrounds, I do my best to show up when possible and lead by example - to prove that marketing leadership is achievable to all regardless of who they are and where they come from if they are disciplined, proactive, and have a vision.

If you are a business leader looking for advice and tips on best practice in multibrand marketing, multisite marketing, or franchise marketing, reach out to say hello.