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7 Strategic Tips for Startup CMOs to Stay on Top
We all are in a race, striving to get ahead of everyone and anyone. Sometimes, we invent new strategies to propel ourselves further, and we mostly rely on proven tactics to improve our scores.
Who Bears the Heaviest Responsibility in Your Startup to Stay on Top?
In this rat race of acquiring growth — Chief Marketers Officers (CMOs) are the ones who bear the most burden, which eventually cascades down the hierarchy. Marketing has never been an easy job, but since the latest startup boom, SEO and Marketing have become even more challenging.
Today, startups are looking for competent individuals for their teams (read rocket ships) to drive growth at insane rates. While this strategy might work out sometimes, it becomes hectic eventually and burns out team members – resulting in unwanted performance lapses.
Retain and Build a Clear Vision in Strategic Planning
To mitigate the threats before the building begins to tremble — CMOs need a clear and focused strategic plan.
Strategic plans differ significantly – depending on the industry, consumer behavior, or nature of the business. Here are 7 strategic tips for contemporary CMOs to stay on top of their game.
1. Synergize your growth strategy
Synergizing your growth strategy is pretty straightforward when the goals are clear, and the pathway is defined. However, this is often not the case. Companies that shout culture at every intersection must learn to ideate better and implement strategies to direct efforts in a uniform direction.
At the end of the day, the task is to drive sustainable growth, ensure customer contentment and allow the champion narrative to reflect on the actions.
Every company asks for new channels to utilize and grow, but many lack alignment – which usually plays a critical role in a company’s success.
Chief Marketing Officers are the bearers of the responsibility of driving growth. They must understand marketing’s contribution from a broader perspective and develop the necessary strategic vision to excel beyond imagination.
Furthermore, aligning your efforts alone won’t cut it. The ability to turn customer insights into valuable products or services is among the top traits of marketers, as per a study; it must be suitably channeled for the utmost benefit. There needs to be proper identification of market gaps which should then be mapped through pertinent insights to make them useful.
2. Strengthen your brand’s image
In the current market, one of many requirements for a brand to take the lead is through its image, vision, and voice. CMOs are responsible for carrying the brand’s vision forward, portraying it to its merit, and ideating to perfection. A brand’s projection is merely not a means to capture eyes but the medium to complement marketing goals with subtlety.
Although it is not feasible to expect growth through brand management – CMOs need to direct energy in the correct direction and work in unison to improve brand awareness, enhance engagement metrics, uplift consumer experience standards and deliver to the actual cause of the brand.
For a brand, you cannot ever say if the efforts suffice. Certain challenges and risks may hinder the seamless process. For that, the brand management team and CMOs must ideate and implement a strategy to categorically inject a series of activities that drive results through set KPIs.
Many early-age brands blunder with their messaging and voice, which, in the long-term, adversely affects them. For that, brands are usually asked to navigate various approaches to understand their audiences and adjust their campaigns accordingly.
3. Adjust to changing consumer demands
Modern brands must be on their toes, ready to accept and adapt to changing consumer demands. Today, consumer behavior is significantly impacted by surrounding events, and to address the shifting behavioral trends – CMOs need to craft flexible procedures that are easy to get in and out of.
One way to cater to the changing needs is by creating audience-centric content that educates and assists the users in becoming customers during the complete customer lifecycle. Though, no matter if the conversion pipeline is inefficient, the customer-focused approach will see you home.
Moreover, conversion chances skyrocket when marketing and sales efforts align and target the right audience simultaneously. The data collected also plays a vital role in identifying the critical pain points and results in more likely outcomes.
Also, strategic planning aids in mitigating potential threats and supplements building processes that are more personalized and make your users feel at ease. In addition, creating promotions at the right time can act as a much-needed catalyst for any CMO.
4. Leverage the latest technology
Where we stand today is all because technology has enabled us to propel ourselves forward and build solutions that provide end-to-end coverage and resolve all the underlying issues. All CMOs should know that without accepting the change and leveraging technological advancement, they won’t stand a chance.
But not only CMOs should be spearheading the initiative. It is the responsibility of the top brass to acknowledge and understand the market needs and map their services and products to ensure customers get the technology-enabled solutions that genuinely add value to their lives.
The role of Chief Marketing Officers has become increasingly complex, so much so that everyone sees marketing as the sole revenue driver – which must enable CMOs to start looking at the factors that might come in handy. When all the technical measures are in place and the systems begin to function together, favorable outcomes usually become a reality.
While it may not be as easy and seamless as it sounds, putting the effort in the right direction through the appropriate technology stack can do wonders.
5. Optimize content strategy
Optimizing a content strategy is of utmost importance in the broader scheme of things, which often gets overshadowed by some other glittery techniques. Optimizing a content strategy is significant for growth metrics. When CMOs work for exponential growth, they must optimize their content production process.
It may involve strategizing and addressing the right audience, keeping a balance between educating and promoting, partnering with other internal and external channels and initiatives to extend the reach, and creating transparent processes to accomplish goals.
At this point, it is noteworthy that in startups, CMOs are the ones that must be leading the content distribution, addressing content gaps, and pouring in to enhance operations. The digital marketing domain relies heavily on content to achieve its targets; hence, it must not be brushed under the carpet.
Startup progress and its positioning is usually an essential factor in driving revenue, and when content portrays a lucrative picture, there is no way it can go wrong. Communicating with key stakeholders and customers sets an initial impression which helps in the long term.
6. Enhance traceability & measurement
CMOs can do everything in the world, launch the fanciest campaigns and fail to leave a mark if they don’t measure their efforts. Today’s marketing is all about data – whether the insights tell you the buying pattern or enrich you regarding the priority shifts – data tells you all.
Cosmetically, numerous tools are available that process data to produce valuable insights and graphs and churn out spectacular numbers. But these will be no good if they don’t see the linkage with marketing or business goals.
Knowing your small steps and planning them strategically and based on data findings can be more helpful than dedicating resources without proper accountability.
CMOs must always be aware of the ground realities so that they can make decisions that are realistic and will drive practical results. Based on what you are trying to achieve, performance parameters or key performance indicators (KPIs) must be established to remain informed.
7. Provide context and make sense
People tend to catch pace with you and align with your vision when they understand what you are trying to achieve. Whatever your plans, keeping your team in the shadows and not providing the complete picture would never help in the long run.
Providing context and going beyond a vague idea regarding a decision will enable others to join you in your journey.
This way, they will realize your expertise by having trust in the leadership and begin to foresee the long-term results and put more diligent efforts into attaining the objectives. It will make sense even if you restructure, define new hierarchies, and build newer roles.
Now when you are working from up above, you cannot always make sense, and not everyone can understand your position. Still, as a Chief Marketing Officer, you must be strategically leading the marketing efforts as well as ensuring that the team is putting in an equal amount of effort to materialize the end goals.
Takeaway
The 21st century has made the Chief Marketing Officer role more demanding and complex. The fierce competition globally has pushed them to be on their toes all the time and execute plans that drive revenue.
CMOs, in most organizations, are involved in strategizing future steps and finalizing goals. In this piece, I have tried to tap the most important factors contributing to a startup’s growth involving CMOs.
These steps will enable Chief Marketers to stay ahead and deliver more than expected. Given the current financial turmoil, pushing boundaries and adapting to efficient practices are all that the startups require.
Featured Image Credit: Mario Gogh; Unsplash; Thank you!
Politics
Soft Skills in Tech: Seeking Teachability in New Hires
Politics
Best Hoka Shoes of 2023
Selecting the right pair of shoes is crucial for achieving optimal performance and comfort during any physical activity. HOKA is a popular brand known for producing shoes with maximal cushioning, making them ideal for runners and other athletes seeking to reduce the impact on their joints. In this article, we will compare and contrast several HOKA ONE ONE shoe models for both men and women, highlighting their key features and benefits.
Expert Review Process
Expert reviews of HOKA ONE ONE shoes typically involve a detailed assessment of the shoes’ design, materials, and performance, as well as an evaluation of their fit and comfort. This may involve running or walking in the shoes, testing them on various surfaces, and comparing them to other shoe models in the same category.
Experts may also take into account feedback from consumers and other athletes, as well as industry trends and advancements in footwear technology. They may evaluate the shoes based on factors such as cushioning, stability, breathability, and support, as well as their overall value for the price.
In addition to evaluating individual shoe models, experts may also provide broader insights into the HOKA ONE ONE brand as a whole, highlighting its history, values, and commitment to innovation in footwear design.
Ultimately, the expert review process of HOKA ONE ONE shoes aims to provide consumers with a comprehensive and unbiased assessment of the shoes’ strengths and weaknesses, helping them make informed decisions when choosing the right pair of shoes for their needs.
HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Womens Shoes
The HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Women’s Shoes offer an incredibly comfortable and lightweight running experience, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating.
Key Stats
- Weight: 7.2 oz (Women’s size 7)
- Stack height: 29mm (heel), 24mm (forefoot)
- Drop: 5mm
Should You Buy?
Reasons to buy the HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Women’s Shoes include their exceptional cushioning, which provides a smooth and responsive ride for all types of runners. The redesigned mesh upper offers enhanced breathability, ensuring your feet stay cool during long runs. The shoe also features a more durable outsole, resulting in a longer-lasting shoe that continues delivering first-class performance mile after mile.
However, there are also reasons to consider not purchasing the Clifton 8. Some users may find the price point to be on the higher side, or the thick cushioning may not suit runners who prefer a more minimalist or closer-to-ground feel. Additionally, the wider fit may not adequately support those with very narrow feet or require a more secure lock-down.
Pros and Cons
In summary, the HOKA ONE ONE Clifton 8 Women’s Shoes provide an excellent combination of cushioning, lightweight, and durability. Pros include the shoe’s outstanding comfort, responsive performance, and breathability, while potential cons for some users are the price, thicker cushioning, and wider fit.
The HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 8 Mens Shoes deliver unparalleled cushioning, support, and comfort, earning a well-deserved rating of 4.5 out of 5.
Key Stats
– Midsole: Full-length compression-molded EVA foam
– Outsole: Durable rubber with strategically placed carbon rubber for added durability
– Weight: 10.9 oz (US size 9)
Should You Buy?
The HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 8 Mens Shoes are perfect for those seeking exceptional cushioning and support for various activities like running, walking, or standing for long hours. Its full-length EVA midsole provides outstanding shock absorption, reducing the stress on your joints and feet. The shoe’s Meta-Rocker technology promotes a natural, efficient gait, while its breathable upper ensures comfortable, well-ventilated wear. Durable construction and materials mean that these shoes are built to last, providing fantastic value for money.
Some customers might find the HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 8 Mens Shoes too bulky or heavy, especially for fast or nimble training. For people with narrower feet, the wider toe box may lead to an uncomfortable fit. The shoe’s premium features and materials also come at a higher price point, which might not suit budget-conscious consumers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Unmatched cushioning and support
– Versatile for various activities
– Durable construction and materials
– Breathable upper
Cons:
– Bulky and heavier compared to other models
– Wide toe box might be too spacious for some
– Higher price point
The HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Women’s Shoes deliver exceptional comfort and support for everyday runners, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Key Stats
– Ultra-cushioned EVA midsole
– Engineered mesh upper for breathability
– Beveled heel design for smooth transitions
These shoes are perfect for those seeking maximum cushioning and support, making them ideal for long runs or daily wear. The Bondi 7 features a comfortable EVA midsole, providing excellent shock absorption and a plush underfoot feel. The engineered mesh upper offers breathability, ensuring your feet stay cool and dry throughout your run. Additionally, the beveled heel aids in smooth and stable transitions, making these shoes an excellent choice for improving your running experience.
On the downside, the HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 may not be suitable for those in search of a lightweight or minimalistic running shoe, as the shoe delivers a more substantial feel on-foot. Moreover, these shoes might be too cushioned for some, potentially leading to less ground feel and responsiveness during faster-paced runs or more technical terrain.
Pros and Cons
Pros and Cons: The HOKA ONE ONE Bondi 7 Women’s Shoes offer immense cushioning and support, ideal for long runs and everyday wear. The breathable mesh upper and beveled heel design adds to the shoe’s overall comfort and performance. However, it may not be the best option for those seeking a lightweight, minimalistic shoe or those desiring more ground feel and responsiveness.
The HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Low-top Sneaker is a top-notch sports shoe designed for women seeking comfort, support, and style, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 rating.
Key Stats
• Weight: 9.95 oz / 282 g
• Stack Height: 27 mm (heel), 22 mm (forefoot)
• Material: Mesh upper, rubber outsole
Should You Buy?
Reasons to buy the HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Low-top Sneaker include its amazing cushioning that provides ample support for long walks or runs. The lightweight design doesn’t compromise on durability, ensuring that you get efficient performance without feeling weighed down. With its stylish appearance and wide range of color options, you will surely find one that matches your personal taste.
On the other hand, some customers may not appreciate the slightly higher price point compared to other brands. Additionally, the shoe’s unique design may not provide the snug fit that some individuals prefer in their athletic footwear.
Pros and Cons
In conclusion, the HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Low-top Sneaker has its pros like excellent cushioning, lightweight design, and stylish appearance, making it an attractive option for those who value comfort and support during physical activities. On the other hand, the cons include a somewhat higher price point and a potentially less-snug fit for certain users.
The HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Bondi 7 Running Shoe is a top-of-the-line running shoe offering excellent cushioning and stability with a stylish, sleek design, deserving a rating of 4.5 out of 5.
Key Stats
Cushion: Plush, full-length EVA midsole
• Weight: 8.9oz (251.72g)
• Drop: 4mm
Should You Buy?
Reasons to buy the HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Bondi 7 Running Shoe are numerous. With a plush full-length EVA midsole, this shoe offers supreme comfort for extended periods of wear, making it perfect for long runs and extended workouts. The Bondi 7 also provides excellent stability and support due to its smoother transitions and balanced Meta-Rocker. The shoe’s stylish design and variety of color options further make it an attractive option for individuals who prioritize both form and function in their athletic footwear.
While the Bondi 7 Running Shoe has many positive attributes, there are still a few reasons to consider other options. For one, the weight of the shoe at 8.9 ounces could potentially feel heavy for some runners who prefer a more minimalist shoe. Additionally, the price point of the Bondi 7 is comparatively high, which may deter budget-conscious consumers.
Pros and Cons
In conclusion, the HOKA ONE ONE Women’s Bondi 7 Running Shoe is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a comfortable, stable, and stylish running shoe. Pros of the Bondi 7 include its plush cushioning, excellent stability, and variety of color options. However, potential cons include the shoe’s weight and its higher price point compared to other running shoe options.
The Hoka Women’s Stinson 6 Shoes provide maximal cushioning and a comfortable ride, earning a solid rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Key Stats
• Weight: 10.2 oz (289 grams)
• Stack Height: 37mm (heel), 32mm (forefoot)
• Category: Maximal Cushioning Road Running Shoe
Should You Buy?
The Hoka Women’s Stinson 6 Shoes are an excellent choice for runners seeking plush cushioning and a smooth ride. The thick EVA foam midsole delivers exceptional shock absorption, making it suitable for long runs and recovery days. The engineered mesh upper ensures proper breathability, while the Meta-Rocker technology encourages a natural and efficient running gait. The Stinson 6 also features a durable outsole, allowing for reliable traction on various surfaces.
Some potential drawbacks of the Hoka Women’s Stinson 6 Shoes include its heavier weight, which might not appeal to faster runners or those looking for a more lightweight and agile shoe. The maximal cushioning might also feel excessive for runners who are used to low-profile or minimalist shoes. Finally, the shoe’s price tag could be a deterrent for budget-conscious buyers.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
• Maximum cushioning for excellent comfort and shock absorption
• Meta-Rocker technology to promote an efficient running gait
• Breathable and comfortable upper
Cons:
• Heavier weight compared to other running shoes
• Excessive cushioning may not suit all runners’ preferences
• Higher price point
The Hoka One Men’s Running Shoes are an exceptional blend of cushioning, support, and performance, earning a 4.5 out of 5-star rating.
Key Stats
– Weight: 10.3 oz (292 g) for men’s size 9
– Heel-to-toe drop: 4mm (32mm heel, 28mm forefoot)
– Price range: $130-$200
Should You Buy?
The Hoka One Men’s Running Shoes provide runners with excellent cushioning without being overly bulky, making them suitable for a variety of running activities. Their unique rocker-shaped sole promotes a smooth and efficient running stride, reducing the impact on joints and muscles.
The shoes also offer exceptional stability and support, making them ideal for runners who may struggle with overpronation or other gait-related issues. Lastly, these shoes offer excellent value for their price range as they boast a good balance of comfort, durability, and performance.
Although the Hoka One Men’s Running Shoes excel in cushioning and support, they may feel too maximalist or heavy for some runners who prefer a more minimal or lightweight option. Additionally, the shoe’s unique design can require a period of adjustment, as it might not suit everyone’s running style or gait right away. Lastly, some customers have reported durability issues with the upper material, which may require more frequent replacements than other shoes at a similar price point.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Excellent cushioning and support
– Unique rocker-shaped sole for a smooth stride
– Suitable for various running activities
– Good value for the price range
Cons:
– May be too maximalist or heavy for some runners
– Adjustment period for those unfamiliar with Hoka shoes
– Potential durability issues with upper material
The Hoka One Men’s Running Shoes are an exceptional blend of cushioning, support, and performance, earning a 4.5 out of 5-star rating.
Key Stats
– Weight: 10.3 oz (292 g) for men’s size 9
– Heel-to-toe drop: 4mm (32mm heel, 28mm forefoot)
– Price range: $130-$200
Should You Buy?
The Hoka One Men’s Running Shoes provide runners with excellent cushioning without being overly bulky, making them suitable for various running activities. Their unique rocker-shaped sole promotes a smooth and efficient running stride, reducing the impact on joints and muscles. The shoes also offer exceptional stability and support, making them ideal for runners struggling with overpronation or other gait-related issues. Lastly, these shoes offer excellent value for their price range as they boast a good balance of comfort, durability, and performance.
Although the Hoka One Men’s Running Shoes excel in cushioning and support, they may feel too maximalist or heavy for some runners who prefer a more minimal or lightweight option. Additionally, the shoe’s unique design can require a period of adjustment, as it might not suit everyone’s running style or gait right away. Lastly, some customers have reported durability issues with the upper material, which may require more frequent replacements than other shoes at a similar price point.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
– Excellent cushioning and support
– Unique rocker-shaped sole for a smooth stride
– Suitable for various running activities
– Good value for the price range
Cons:
– May be too maximalist or heavy for some runners
– Adjustment period for those unfamiliar with Hoka shoes
– Potential durability issues with upper material
The HOKA ONE ONE Men’s Speedgoat 4 Textile Synthetic Trainers excel in comfort and durability, earning a solid 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Key Stats
– Cushioning: Exceptional with responsive EVA midsole
– Traction: Multi-directional Vibram Megagrip outsole
– Fit: Secure with breathable, lightweight upper material
Should You Buy?
If you’re a trail runner seeking a comfortable, durable, and grippy shoe for various terrains, the Speedgoat 4 is an excellent choice. This shoe features a responsive EVA midsole, providing ample cushioning for long runs or hikes. The Vibram Megagrip outsole offers outstanding traction on diverse surfaces, while the synthetic textile upper ensures a secure fit without compromising breathability or weight. Overall, this shoe is a reliable option for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a high-performance trainer.
While the Speedgoat 4 has many positives, it might not be the perfect fit for everybody. Its maximal cushioning may dissuade those who prefer a more minimalist, ground-feel shoe. Additionally, the shoe may run narrow for some individuals, proving problematic for those with wider feet. Lastly, the price point might deter budget-conscious shoppers who are not ready to invest in premium footwear just yet.
Pros and Cons
Pros: Excellent cushioning, exceptional traction, secure fit, lightweight, breathable
Cons: May not suit minimalist preferences, potentially narrow fit, higher price point
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the difference between maximal and moderate cushioning in HOKA ONE ONE shoes?
Maximal cushioning provides more cushioning and support, making it ideal for runners who want to reduce the impact on their joints. Moderate cushioning, on the other hand, provides a balance between cushioning and responsiveness, making it suitable for a variety of physical activities.
Are HOKA ONE ONE shoes only for running?
No, HOKA ONE ONE offers a range of shoes suitable for a variety of physical activities, including trail running, hiking, and casual wear.
How do I choose the right size of HOKA ONE ONE shoes?
It is recommended to measure your foot size and consult the HOKA ONE ONE size chart to determine the appropriate size for you. Additionally, it is recommended to try on the shoes and walk or run in them to ensure a proper fit.
Are HOKA ONE ONE shoes durable?
Yes, HOKA ONE ONE shoes are known for their durability, with many models featuring durable materials and reinforced designs.
Can HOKA ONE ONE shoes be used for high-intensity training?
Yes, some HOKA ONE ONE models, such as the Bondi and Clifton, are suitable for high-intensity training due to their responsive and supportive design. However, it is recommended to choose a shoe model that is specifically designed for the type of activity you plan to engage in.
Conclusion
In conclusion, HOKA offers a range of shoe models with different cushioning levels and designs to cater to the needs of various athletes. The Clifton 8, Bondi 8, and Rincon 3 are ideal for road running, while the Stinson 6 and Bondi 7 are suitable for trail running. Additionally, the brand’s low-top sneakers offer a comfortable and casual option for everyday wear.
Whether you’re a seasoned runner or simply seeking a comfortable pair of shoes for daily wear, HOKA ONE ONE has a shoe model to suit your needs. By considering the features and benefits of each shoe model, you can make an informed decision and choose the perfect pair of shoes for your fitness journey.
