Episode

10. Brian Hurst: Finding Market Differentiation with UGC

In this episode, Brian Hurst, VP of Social Media at AMA Boston, explores the importance of integrating customer needs into brand journeys, finding differentiation in oversaturated markets, and leveraging user-generated content (UGC) for authenticity.

Guests:
  • Brian Hurst

    Brian Hurst’s career is a testament to his unwavering commitment to customer-centric roles. Beginning as a College Program Intern at Disney World, he learned the art of creating unforgettable experiences. His recent focus on marketing within the tech industry has showcased his innovative approach, ensuring that customer expectations are not only met but exceeded as much as possible. Brian’s leadership extends to his role on the board of the American Marketing Association (AMA) Boston chapter, where he contributes to shaping marketing trends and fostering professional growth in the field.

    With a foundation rooted in delivering exceptional customer experiences, Brian’s career journey highlights his passion for understanding and meeting customer needs. From creating magic at Disney World to shaping impactful marketing strategies for tech companies, he consistently strives for excellence. Brian’s dual role as a marketing leader and board member of AMA Boston underscores his dedication to staying ahead of industry trends and fostering growth within the marketing community.

TLDL

Brian explores the importance of integrating customer needs into brand journeys, finding differentiation in oversaturated markets, and leveraging user-generated content (UGC) for authenticity. Live content, particularly on platforms like TikTok, was highlighted as a growing trend, with advice to experiment and find one’s niche before diving in. The main takeaway was to encourage experimentation and play in the marketing sandbox to discover what resonates with audiences.

EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS

[1:53] Brian’s favorite brew

[3:01] How to build a brand journey through consumer marketing 

  • Integrating consumer needs with the intention of making a profit
  • The growing attention to pre-brand marketing
  • The main components of an audience’s attention: solutions, value & content

[4:47] Creating the perfect game plan for market differentiation

  • The importance of brands identifying what they’re building to define their go-to-market plan
  • Brand building in public and why creating attention first is a killer strategy
  • Leveraging focus groups to test different marketing strategies

[10:13] Where live content is heading in 2024

  • The benefits of creating highly digestible content for consumers
  • TikTok’s evolution through the years
  • Creating attention with FOMO content that drives more action in real-time

[17:13] Final thoughts and takeaways

  • Play in the sandbox often by experimenting with new strategies and tactics to find what works
  • You don’t need to go big testing different messaging – start small and scale what works

FOLLOW BRIAN

Follow Brian on X @BrianHurst01
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FOLLOW PAT

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