#023 Neal Schaffer | The Art of Influencer Branding

Neal Schaffer is a global keynote speaker, university educator, consultant and owner of media agency PDCA Social. He works with brands to craft effective social media strategies that allow them to reach their audiences without intruding on their online experience. Neal is also the author of Maximize Your Social: A One-Stop Guide to Building a Social Media Strategy for Marketing and Business Success, and his upcoming book The Age of Influence is set to release in February 2020. In this episode, Neal describes how working in Asia shaped his approach to marketing, argues that "organic" social media ads aren't as effective as we think they are, and explains what entrepreneurs can take away from influencers. The Finer Details of This Episode: Neal describes when and how his interest in marketing really took off. How Neal's experience in Asia gave him a very holistic perspective on business. Why Neal's customers are where he finds inspiration for the content he writes. YouTube streamers and influencers: the Dot Com boom of today. The topics in Neal's upcoming book he believes are most relevant to his readers' success. Why mastering Facebook ads is kind of like Jon Snow learning to ride a dragon. Important lessons about influencers that entrepreneurs can take away from this episode. Neal's favorite examples of companies working well in tandem with influencers. Looking for better ways to connect with customers without interrupting their social media experiences. Why Neal views branding as "eternal" and essential to your company's long-term success.  Quotes: "I like to add value. I like to help people. That's sort of my core DNA." "Don't ask me what I want to talk about. It's all about what your customers want to hear." "Social media should be as much of a collaboration as it is about marketing." "Now it's really about breaking down those barriers and making the audience part of your brand." Mentions: Volkswagen, Origins, Amazon, Apple     Guest Links:Neal's homepage - https://nealschaffer.com/   Visit Brandon's website at www.BrandsOnBrandsOnBrands.com Join the Brand Growth Community on Facebook at www.brandonbrands.com/community And please leave a rating and review on iTunes!