[2013 trends] Seven youth-influencer outreach insights

[Mongezi Mtati] In 2012, brands asked some pertinent and challenging questions pertaining to influencer outreach and seeding their products. Insights gained both as a delegate and a speaker at a number of enlightening conferences over the past year have led me to the following observations about what brands want and how Africa's youth prefer to be communicated with - from a marketing and advertising perspective. 21 Jan 2013 11:49

Beyond apps - Does your 2013 customer engagement strategy include mobile?

[Mongezi Mtati] There has been an increase in interest and activity in web and mobile applications over the past year. In October/November 2012, there are three important conferences focused on this developing arena, including Demo Africa, Tech4Africa and Mobile Web Africa. 30 Oct 2012 15:02

Starving the Creative

[Mongezi Mtati] As an experienced freelance creative, you've most likely been around the block a few times. You've worked with a number of agencies and proved your worth in the creative industry. You have probably also worked with corporate companies, adding to your portfolio and increasing your experience. Logically speaking, your diversity and depth of experience should mean that you are remunerated commensurate with that level of skill and ability. 9 Oct 2012 13:07

Why 'Stop the NYDA' is worse than the NYDA

[Mongezi Mtati] On Sunday evening, I saw a tweet by Ramon Thomas saying "Watching @VusiSpeaker on #Interface, on SABC3, talking about the 'Stop the NYDA' campaign". I had heard of the campaign before so I tuned in expecting an interesting debate. Within 15 minutes, I realised that our dependence on funding isn't completely "entrepreneurial". 22 Jun 2012 12:13

Ever-shrinking personal networks and the value of the "inner circle"

[Mongezi Mtati] Our increased usage of social networks has ensured that the word "friend" is used loosely to mean someone you are friends with online, and have met offline. Chats I had with bloggers and perceived influencers in the trusted authentic amplification of brands and products revealed some interesting nuggets. 28 May 2012 11:57

Facilitate a movement: the shift from mass marketing

[Mongezi Mtati] To date, there are two brands in particular, Absolut and Nike, which have hit the ground running when it comes to going beyond a social media presence and influencer engagement, making it difficult for challenger brands to catch up and maintain the pace. A third brand, Carling Black Label, did phenomenally last year by focusing less on social media and more on influencers [video]. 20 Mar 2012 11:55

[2012 trends] Influencers take to the web and run the streets

[Mongezi Mtati] 2011 saw the rise of more social media influencers and thought leaders; more conversations influenced how brands are perceived; and the fad of a Facebook page became more questioned than ever before. Or did that apply only in conferences and meetings I went to? Here are my predictions for 2012. 26 Jan 2012 11:38

What techies are doing with social and what that means for marketers

[Mongezi Mtati] JOHANNESBURG/LONDON: Just when you think you know where social media and its influencers are going, it all changes again. I recently attended two conferences, one in South Africa and the other in the UK, to see just what technologists are working on and where investors are looking. 5 Dec 2011 11:19

WOM: Embracing the unknown, changing the status quo

[Mongezi Mtati] The most commonly cited reason for lack of breakthrough, is fear of the unknown. Most companies, in their marketing strategies, stick to the known and mostly reach expected results. Sometimes, on the rare occasion, they exceed targets. 25 Jan 2011 11:19