This week, ADMARP One-on-One is shining the spotlight on Helen Akue, a digital and marketing professional with over ten years of experience in business development, graphic design, marketing, and communications.
ADMARP: Did you choose marketing, or marketing chose you?
Akue: Throughout my professional career in corporate marketing, business development, and operations, my foremost aim was to exceed the expectations of both my employers and clients. My role was closely tied to diverse aspects of marketing, including devising business tactics, building brand recognition, implementing digital marketing strategies, and acquiring customers. Working alongside clients to address their immediate business needs and gain a comprehensive understanding of their company’s vision and processes to attain their objectives gave me immense satisfaction. As a result, I swiftly acquired the skills necessary to analyze, forecast, penetrate, win, nurture relationships, and efficiently handle projects, igniting my passion for the field.
ADMARP: What is your greatest weakness?
Akue: I hold myself to high standards, and occasionally, not everyone may fully appreciate them. In the past, this led to some frustration. However, I have developed a more precise communication strategy to clarify the intended goals and vision. This approach has helped to smoothen things out and ensure better understanding in communication.
ADMARP: What is the idea of you people have that is quite contrary to who you really are?
Akue: Although many people assume that I’m not interested in physical fitness, I suspect that I may possess some hidden athletic abilities that I am yet to tap into fully
ADMARP: What can you describe as the most groundbreaking moment/period in your career journey?
Akue: My first year at the University of Benin was the most groundbreaking moment in my business career. My parents had given me money for school, and I split it in half, went into Balogun market, and purchased female underwear. I also bought bags for packaging, and off I went to school as a rookie, a jambite with a full traveling bag of merchandise to sell. This was my journey to entrepreneurship, and I have never looked back since.
ADMARP: What is your favorite food?
Akue: Very spicy grilled fish with tabbouleh salad and good refreshment.
ADMARP: What food do you think is the most overrated?
Akue: I would say red velvet cake. It is a delightful, visually appealing cake, but I can’t help visualizing it as a chocolate cake with a red hue.
ADMARP: Tell us something, an unpopular opinion about marketing that you think people should embrace more?
Akue: Long-term brand building over short-term gains: Developing a strong brand identity requires time, effort, and investment, and the benefits may not be immediately apparent. Although some may argue that branding is unnecessary for their industry, too costly, or time-consuming, it is essential to create a distinctive and memorable brand that resonates with the target audience. Therefore, businesses should prioritize brand building as an integral part of their marketing plan.
ADMARP: If you weren’t a marketing expert, what would you have done differently in life?
Akue: As a passionate food enthusiast, I would go with being a chef. My goal is not just any chef but a renowned 7-star world-renowned culinarian. Yes!!!!, I believe I can make masterpieces and great pairings worthy of any table or street and will leave a lasting impression on those who indulge in them, standing the test of time.
ADMARP: What state are you from?
Akue: The Heartbeat of The Nation
ADMARP: What are you afraid of the most?
Akue: Dentist- Although I have had a negative experience in the past that has contributed to my fear of visiting the dental office, I still have the courage to visit.
ADMARP: Who is your bestie in the industry?
Akue: Elovia Shodunke. She is the COO of one of Nigeria’s most admired brand management firms – ADCONCEPTS Brand Management (https://www.adconceptsng.com). Not only is she a bestie, but we also share history and memories that transcend time.
